In what could be one of the most electric showdowns of the upcoming college football season, the potential matchup between Penn State and Notre Dame is generating serious national buzz. With two proud programs rooted in rich tradition, elite talent, and passionate fanbases, this game has all the makings of a classic. But beyond the iconic uniforms and legendary fight songs, the heart of this clash lies in the quarterback duel: Drew Allar of Penn State vs. Riley Leonard of Notre Dame.
This isn’t just a football game — it’s a collision of identities, philosophies, and futures. Both programs enter this season with playoff ambitions, and this potential matchup could shape the trajectory of the College Football Playoff race.
A Historic Rivalry Renewed
Though Penn State and Notre Dame don’t meet annually, when they do, it’s unforgettable. From the Gerry Faust and Lou Holtz eras to Joe Paterno’s formidable defenses in the 1980s and 90s, this matchup has produced some of the most memorable moments in college football history.
The last meeting came in 2007 — a game Penn State won 31–10 in Happy Valley. Now, with both teams back on the national radar, fans and analysts alike are itching to see these bluebloods collide again on the grand stage.
The Quarterback Battle: Allar vs. Leonard
At the center of the storm stand two quarterbacks with contrasting styles but similar stakes.
Drew Allar: The Five-Star Phenomenon
Standing at 6-foot-5 with a cannon for an arm, Drew Allar is the prototype of a modern-day NFL quarterback. A former five-star recruit from Ohio, Allar is entering his third season in Happy Valley and is widely seen as the most physically gifted quarterback the program has had in decades.
After a rocky sophomore season that saw flashes of brilliance and moments of hesitation, Allar is poised to take the next step under new offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki. His deep-ball accuracy and pocket awareness have improved, and with a stronger offensive line and returning weapons like KeAndre Lambert-Smith and Nicholas Singleton, Allar has the pieces to shine.
But pressure will mount. Allar must prove he can perform in big games. A matchup against Notre Dame — and a seasoned, disciplined Marcus Freeman defense — would be the ultimate litmus test.
Riley Leonard: The Resilient Transfer
Notre Dame’s answer comes in the form of Riley Leonard, the transfer from Duke who arrives in South Bend with something to prove. While injuries derailed his final season in Durham, Leonard has shown an ability to take over games with both his arm and legs. Under Mike Elko at Duke, he grew into a fearless leader and a dangerous dual-threat weapon.
Now, under the watchful eyes of Marcus Freeman and new offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock (formerly of LSU), Leonard hopes to elevate a Notre Dame offense that has too often sputtered in big moments. His mobility could pose serious problems for Penn State’s aggressive pass rush, led by defensive end Dani Dennis-Sutton and linebacker Abdul Carter.
If Leonard can stay healthy and find chemistry with playmakers like Tobias Merriweather, freshman phenom Cam Williams, and tight end Mitchell Evans, he may be the x-factor that swings this game.
Coaching Chess Match: Franklin vs. Freeman
This isn’t just a quarterback duel — it’s a battle of minds on the sidelines.
James Franklin: Looking to Break Through
James Franklin enters his 11th season at Penn State with an impressive resume — one Big Ten title, multiple 10-win seasons, and top recruiting classes. But there’s an elephant in the room: Franklin has struggled to beat elite teams consistently. Losses to Ohio State and Michigan have defined his recent years, and fans are hungry for a signature win.
A victory over Notre Dame would be a national statement — a validation of the Allar era and proof that Franklin can compete at the highest level. Known for his energy, preparation, and recruiting acumen, Franklin needs to match Freeman in-game adjustments, especially in the second half.
Marcus Freeman: Building a Legacy
Now in his third season, Marcus Freeman is still carving out his identity as Notre Dame’s head coach. A former Buckeye linebacker and defensive guru, Freeman has reinvigorated Notre Dame recruiting and brought a more modern, aggressive mindset to the program. But questions remain.
Freeman has endured close losses and high-profile letdowns — games like the Ohio State loss in 2023, where the Irish had just 10 men on the field for the final defensive play, still haunt fans. Beating Penn State would mark a turning point and solidify his place among college football’s rising stars.
With a more explosive offense under Denbrock and a stacked defense, Freeman is looking to turn potential into production.
Defense Wins Championships?
In an age where offenses dominate headlines, both teams boast elite defensive units.
Penn State’s Defense: Relentless and Speed-Driven
Penn State ranked among the top defenses in the nation in 2024 and returns key pieces. Manny Diaz may have moved on to Duke, but Tom Allen takes over a defense loaded with talent and experience.
Linebacker Abdul Carter is a future first-round pick, and the secondary — led by corner Kalen King and safety Kevin Winston Jr. — is capable of clamping down on elite receivers. The Nittany Lions can rotate waves of defensive linemen, keeping the pressure on Leonard and forcing mistakes.
Notre Dame’s Defense: Disciplined and Fearsome
Notre Dame’s defense is built on discipline, physicality, and smart football. Linebacker JD Bertrand returns as the heart and soul of the unit, while the defensive backfield boasts standout Benjamin Morrison, one of the best cover corners in America.
Defensive coordinator Al Golden has quietly built one of the most consistent units in the country. If they can contain Singleton and pressure Allar without blitzing too often, they can disrupt Penn State’s rhythm and force turnovers.
Impact Players to Watch
Aside from the quarterbacks, several players could change the outcome of the game with one explosive play.
- Nicholas Singleton (RB, Penn State) – A home-run hitter capable of flipping the field with one cut. If he finds space, Notre Dame will be in trouble.
- Cam Williams (WR, Notre Dame) – The five-star freshman has dazzled in spring practices. Expect Freeman to scheme ways to get him involved early and often.
- Dani Dennis-Sutton (DE, Penn State) – A game-wrecker off the edge. Leonard must account for him every snap.
- Tobias Merriweather (WR, Notre Dame) – The deep threat who can take the top off the defense. If Leonard has time, Merriweather will test King and Dixon deep.
- Theo Johnson (TE, Penn State) – The 6’6” target is a matchup nightmare, especially in the red zone.
The Atmosphere: College Football at Its Best
Whether this hypothetical matchup takes place in Happy Valley or under the lights of Notre Dame Stadium, the atmosphere would be electric.
Penn State’s famed White Out or Notre Dame’s Golden Domes? Either backdrop sets the stage for a legendary clash.
The fans — loyal, loud, and deeply invested — would bring intensity reminiscent of the old-school rivalries. This isn’t just a football game. It’s a cultural event. It’s Big Ten meets independent Catholic powerhouse. It’s blueblood football at its finest.
Playoff Implications
Both programs harbor serious College Football Playoff aspirations. A win in this matchup would be a marquee résumé builder — potentially deciding a top-four spot come December.
- For Penn State, beating Notre Dame could finally erase doubts about Franklin’s ability to win big games.
- For Notre Dame, toppling Penn State would reestablish the Irish as true contenders and showcase Freeman’s evolution as a coach.
Prediction: A Game of Inches
It’s impossible to predict such a tightly matched battle with full certainty. But here’s how it might unfold:
- Penn State opens strong with a scripted drive that results in an Allar-to-Johnson touchdown.
- Notre Dame answers with a methodical, run-heavy series that ends in a Leonard keeper for six.
- The defenses tighten up in the second quarter, with field position becoming critical.
- In the final minutes, Leonard leads a drive into the red zone, but a tipped ball by Abdul Carter leads to a game-saving interception by Kalen King.
Final Score: Penn State 27, Notre Dame 24
A field goal separates the two as Penn State escapes with a signature win and Drew Allar earns his national coming-out party.
