Drew Allar’s recent comments labeling Ohio State as “respected” rather than true rivals have sparked a fascinating discussion within the college football community. For decades, Ohio State has been at the center of numerous heated rivalries, most notably with “That Team Up North” (TTUN), a moniker that Buckeye fans proudly use to refer to their arch-nemesis, Michigan. However, Allar’s choice of words brings a refreshing yet controversial perspective on how Penn State views the Buckeyes. While Ohio State and Penn State have faced off in many memorable clashes over the years, the dynamic between the two programs is unique compared to the longstanding animosity of the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry. Allar’s statement seems to recognize the greatness and dominance of Ohio State while simultaneously acknowledging that the rivalry label is perhaps too strong for this particular relationship.
When analyzing Allar’s remarks, it is important to understand the historical context of rivalries in college football. Ohio State’s ultimate rival has always been Michigan, with the annual “The Game” standing as one of the most celebrated and intense matchups in all of sports. The hostility between these two teams runs deep, transcending generations of players and fans. The Buckeyes and Wolverines have fought for conference supremacy, playoff contention, and bragging rights for over a century. This rivalry is built on tradition, history, and the emotional investment of both fan bases. It is not just about football; it is about pride, culture, and identity.
Penn State, on the other hand, has shared a different type of relationship with Ohio State. Since joining the Big Ten in 1993, Penn State has worked to carve out its place as a powerhouse in the conference. The Nittany Lions have given the Buckeyes some of their toughest battles over the years, with iconic games such as the 2016 upset at Beaver Stadium or the narrow 2017 comeback win by Ohio State that left fans on the edge of their seats. Yet, despite these thrilling encounters, the matchup has lacked the same emotional fire as Ohio State vs. Michigan. Allar’s words reflect this reality: while Penn State respects Ohio State’s consistent excellence, it does not necessarily view the Buckeyes through the lens of bitter enmity.
In many ways, this viewpoint is refreshing because it showcases sportsmanship and competitive admiration. Allar, as Penn State’s rising star quarterback, recognizes that Ohio State is a benchmark program—one that demands respect because of its consistent success on the national stage. Under coaches like Urban Meyer and Ryan Day, Ohio State has become a perennial College Football Playoff contender, producing NFL-caliber talent year after year. It is natural for Penn State players to respect the Buckeyes, not only for their skill but also for the discipline and execution that define their program.
However, respect does not equate to fear. Allar’s comments should not be misconstrued as a sign of Penn State bowing down to Ohio State’s dominance. If anything, they highlight Penn State’s determination to rise to the challenge. The Nittany Lions have been on the cusp of Big Ten supremacy multiple times in the past decade, often falling just short due to narrow losses to Ohio State. As such, Allar’s remarks might be a subtle acknowledgment that while Penn State may not view Ohio State as a rival in the traditional sense, the Buckeyes remain the standard to beat if the Nittany Lions want to claim conference and national glory.
On the flip side, when it comes to the rivals department, TTUN remains Ohio State’s primary target. This year, the Buckeyes are determined to reclaim their dominance in “The Game,” especially after suffering back-to-back losses to Michigan. For Ohio State players and fans, the mission is clear: beat Michigan, no matter what. This is where the passion of rivalry burns brightest, and there is no room for mere respect. Instead, the rivalry with Michigan thrives on a mix of hatred, tradition, and the drive to prove superiority. The Buckeyes are gearing up to ensure that this season ends with a decisive victory over the Wolverines, reasserting their dominance in the Big Ten East.
Yet, it would be foolish for Ohio State to underestimate Penn State. While Michigan may be the main rival, Penn State is the dangerous challenger lurking just behind them. Year after year, the Nittany Lions have recruited top-tier talent, developed elite defenses, and fielded explosive offenses capable of testing any team in the nation. Allar himself represents a new era for Penn State, as his arm strength, poise, and leadership have raised expectations in Happy Valley. If Ohio State is not careful, a team like Penn State could derail its path to the Big Ten title and the College Football Playoff.
The rivalry question often comes down to perception. Ohio State fans might not consider Penn State a true rival because the emotional investment is not as intense as it is with Michigan. For Penn State, the dynamic is similar: while beating Ohio State is always a huge achievement, it lacks the cultural and historical weight of their rivalries with programs like Pitt. Allar’s comment about respect rather than rivalry likely speaks to this nuanced reality. However, respect can sometimes be more dangerous than hatred, because it is rooted in a recognition of quality and skill. When a program respects another, it means they are fully aware of the challenge ahead, and they will prepare accordingly.
The 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive Big Ten campaigns in recent memory. With Michigan riding high after recent successes, Ohio State hungry to reclaim its throne, and Penn State poised to make a serious playoff run, the conference is packed with intrigue. Drew Allar’s emergence as a potential star only adds to the drama. His ability to lead the Nittany Lions against powerhouses like Ohio State and Michigan will determine whether Penn State can finally break through and win a Big Ten championship in this new era.
Ohio State, for its part, understands the stakes. Ryan Day’s squad is loaded with talent at every position, from a stacked wide receiver corps led by stars like Emeka Egbuka to a tough defensive unit looking to cement its identity. The Buckeyes know that to achieve their goals, they cannot afford to slip up against teams like Penn State. Respecting Penn State as a dangerous opponent is key to avoiding complacency. At the same time, the emotional fire reserved for “The Game” ensures that Ohio State will be fully motivated when facing Michigan.
Allar’s statement has also sparked conversation among fans and analysts about what defines a rivalry. Is it a matter of mutual hatred and disdain, or can it be born out of mutual respect and consistent high-stakes competition? For some, the Ohio State-Penn State matchup has become a de facto rivalry due to its importance in determining the Big Ten East champion. Every time these two teams meet, playoff implications loom large. For others, however, rivalry requires a deeper emotional component, one that Ohio State already shares with Michigan.
What is undeniable is that both Ohio State and Penn State are operating at elite levels, and the games between them have become must-watch events. Whether or not the term “rivalry” applies, the respect that Allar mentions is a testament to how far Penn State has come as a program. They are no longer just another team on Ohio State’s schedule—they are a legitimate threat, capable of derailing championship dreams.
As the season approaches, fans can expect another thrilling chapter in this ongoing story. Ohio State will seek to dominate both Penn State and Michigan, aiming for an undefeated regular season and a playoff berth. Michigan will attempt to continue its recent success against the Buckeyes, knowing that a win in “The Game” can define their entire season. Meanwhile, Penn State, with Allar at the helm, will look to upset the balance of power, proving that respect is not enough—they want to be feared.
Drew Allar’s comments, while seemingly simple, have added another layer to the Big Ten narrative. By acknowledging Ohio State’s stature without labeling them as rivals, he has set the tone for Penn State’s mindset: respectful, but ready to fight. This mentality could be exactly what the Nittany Lions need to finally take the next step. For Ohio State, it is a reminder that while their focus remains on TTUN, they cannot ignore the threat posed by Allar and his team.
