The Golden Path
“They won the lottery.”
That was the assessment from FOX Sports analyst Joel Klatt this week regarding Penn State’s 2026 schedule. And look at the verified slate, it’s hard to argue.
The “Double Dodge”
The biggest story isn’t just who Penn State plays—it’s who they don’t play.
- Ohio State: For the first time in recent memory, the Buckeyes are off the annual rotation. In a transition year under a new coaching staff, avoiding the Columbus powerhouse is a gift.
- Indiana (The National Champions): Yes, you read that right. The Indiana Hoosiers, fresh off their shocking 16-0 run to the 2025 National Title, are NOT on Penn State’s regular-season schedule.
Avoiding the conference’s two premier programs—the traditional king (OSU) and the reigning king (IU)—creates a path to Indianapolis that is wide open.
The Roadblocks?
The schedule isn’t devoid of challenges. A trip to Washington in November is never easy (just ask the 2024 team), and hosting USC brings its own brand of offensive firepower. But compared to the gauntlets faced by Michigan and Oregon, Penn State’s road is paved with opportunity.
For Matt Campbell, the mandate is clear: There are no excuses. The schedule markers are set for a playoff run in Year 1.