Setting Reasonable Expectations for Penn State Football's Offense in 2024

Last season, the Penn State Football offense showcased its prowess, ranking an impressive 12th in the scoring chart with an average of 36 points per game.

Penn State Football, Drew Allar — Penn State Nittany Lions Quarterback Drew Allar (Photo by Gregory Fisher/Icon Sportswire)

The Nittany Lions demonstrated a solid rushing game, averaging 184.8 yards on the ground, with Kaytron Allen leading the charge with 902 yards rushing and Nick Singleton adding 752 yards.

In the air, the Nittany Lions averaged 251 yards per game, and quarterback Drew Allar passed for 2,631 yards, 25 touchdowns, and two interceptions. Allar took few chances; Penn State only averaged 6.7 yards per pass.

Here’s a look at some keys for Penn State Football to elevate the offense in 2024.

Continue Focusing on Running Game

Nick Singleton, Penn State Football — Oct 28, 2023; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions running back Nicholas Singleton (10) reacts after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter against the Indiana Hoosiers at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Indiana 33-24. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-USA TODAY Sports

Under the guidance of new offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki, the Penn State Nittany Lions are expected to undergo significant changes in their offensive strategy and scheme.

Even with only two starting offensive linemen returning, the Penn State rushing attack should. still be solid with Allen and Singleton.

It will be challenging to replace the three offensive linemen, but they still should be adequate, with JB Nelson and Sal Wormley leading the way. Wisconsin transfer Nolan Rucci should help out. When you have a lot of new pieces on the
offensive line, the team leans on the run more.

<< BUY PENN STATE TICKETS FOR 2024 SEASON >>

Penn State Football Needs More Explosive Plays

Under Kotelnicki, the Nittany Lions are expected to adopt a more aggressive downfield strategy, even with a new offensive line.

To put this in perspective, this past season, Kansas had over 65 plays of 20-plus yards and 39 plays over 30 yards, while Penn State only had 40 plays over 20 yards and 19 over 30.

The Jayhawks averaged 7.01 yards per play. With these numbers in mind, it’s clear that under Kotelnicki, the Nittany Lions offense is expected to be more explosive.

Penn State will need more production from their receivers to be more explosive. Last year, the Nittany Lions receivers struggled to get open. Penn State’s leading receiver, KeAndre Lambert-Smith, is now going to Auburn, but Penn State added Julian Fleming, a transfer from Ohio State.

Meanwhile, Harrison Wallace returns and will need to stay healthy so he can develop. No receiver on the
Nittany Lions’ roster has more than 19 catches in 2023. The receiving corps will likely see a lot of man-to-man coverage and need to create separation for the Nittany Lions to be victorious.