Football
Big Ten Championship: Penn State's Key Players Return vs. Oregon
2024-12-07
Indianapolis is the stage where Penn State football is all set to showcase its might. Junior wideout Tre Wallace, who was sidelined in the regular-season finale against Maryland due to an undisclosed injury, is now expected to be in the lineup. Sophomore backup cornerback Elliot Washington, who had been out of action for the past three games, has also been cleared to play. This could be a significant boost for the team as they prepare to face the undefeated No. 1 Oregon Ducks in the Big Ten Championship Game at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Biggest Losses and Additions
The biggest losses for Penn State will be starting offensive tackle Anthony Donkoh and key backup defensive tackle Alonzo Ford. Donkoh will miss his third straight game due to an undisclosed lower-body injury suffered on the second play against Minnesota. Ford also got injured in the one-point victory over the Golden Gophers and will be out for the upcoming College Football Playoff with "long-term" issues. The only new addition to the availability report is backup linebacker Dakaari Nelson, who is listed as "questionable."Tre Wallace's Return
Tre Wallace's return is indeed a big deal for Penn State. He is the team's second-leading receiver, behind only star tight end Tyler Warren. With 35 receptions for 579 yards (16.5 yards per catch) and three touchdowns, his presence will add a new dimension to the offense. His ability to make big plays and create mismatches could be crucial in the Big Ten Championship Game.Elliot Washington's Return
Washington, a sophomore, has been a regular rotation piece at cornerback and leads the Lions' defenders with five pass breakups this season. His return will strengthen the cornerback rotation, which already includes transfers A.J. Harris and Jalen Kimber, Cam Miller, and Audavion Collins. His experience and skills will be valuable in defending against the high-powered Oregon offense.The Lions will also continue to miss a few other key players due to "long-term injuries." These include All-America candidate safety KJ Winston, backup tight end Andrew Rappleyea, and backup tailback Cam Wallace. Additionally, sophomore linebacker Keon Wylie and junior receiver and punt returner Kaden Saunders will be out for their eighth straight game with unspecified injuries.PSU vs. Oregon:Big Ten Championship prediction: What will Penn State football do with a ‘second chance’?The 2025 White Out:Has Penn State football found its White Out foe for 2025? First Big Ten game announcedFrank Bodani covers Penn State football for the York Daily Record and USA Today Network. Contact him at fbodani@ydr.com and follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @YDRPennState.