Drew Allar, Penn Stateโs 20-year-old sophomore quarterback, has quickly become the centerpiece of the Nittany Lionsโ offense. Known for his strong arm and pocket presence, Allar has carried high expectations as one of the top quarterback recruits in program history. In the recent 30-24 double-overtime loss to Oregon, Allar showed flashes of brilliance โ but also the growing pains of a young QB under the brightest lights.
Allarโs Performance vs Oregon
- Stats: 14/25 completions, 137 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT (ESPN)
- 4th Quarter Heroics:
- Led a 75-yard drive capped by a 35-yard TD strike to Devonte Ross.
- On the next possession, drove 62 yards before hitting Ross again on a shovel pass to tie the game with under a minute left.
- Overtime: Scored in 1OT with Kaytron Allenโs help, but threw a costly interception in 2OT, ending Penn Stateโs chances.
Strengths
- Arm Talent: One of the strongest arms in the Big Ten, capable of throwing deep with accuracy.
- Composure: Even when trailing, Allar kept PSU alive with smart reads late in regulation.
- Upside: At 6โ5โ, 243 lbs, he has the build of an NFL quarterback and is still improving each week.
Areas for Growth
- Consistency: Stretches of Penn Stateโs offense stalled because of missed reads and rushed throws.
- Decision-Making Under Pressure: The Oregon interception showed that high-stakes situations remain a challenge.
- Mobility: Though improving, he relies heavily on his arm rather than extending plays with his legs.
Career Snapshot
- Hometown: Medina, Ohio
- Recruiting: 5-star QB, ranked one of the top recruits of the 2022 class.
- Penn State Role: Took over as starter in 2023 after Sean Cliffordโs graduation.
- Outlook: Expected to be a multi-year starter and a potential high NFL draft pick if development continues.
Whatโs Next for Drew Allar?
Despite the heartbreaking Oregon loss, Allarโs growth is evident. He showed the ability to command clutch drives and nearly topple a top-10 opponent. Penn Stateโs playoff hopes took a hit, but Allarโs development remains a bright spot for the program โ and his ceiling remains sky-high.
Conclusion
Drew Allar proved he can rise to the occasion, even if the outcome fell short. With more experience and refinement, he has the tools to not just lead Penn State but to eventually be one of the premier quarterbacks in college football.
