Penn State and SMU are about to make their grand entrances into the College Football Playoff, carrying with them a legacy that’s as weighty as their ambitions.
DaQuan Jones remembers the upheaval at Penn State, a period marked by scandal and uncertainty. As a sophomore during the Jerry Sandusky scandal in 2011, Jones recalls the struggle as the team, once a top contender, faced severe sanctions and the exile of coach Joe Paterno. Yet, amidst chaos, Jones chose to remain at Penn State, witnessing a slow but determined rebuild led by coach Bill O’Brien, who filled gaps with walk-ons following NCAA’s scholarship cuts. This commitment laid the foundation for today’s achievements, drawing a direct line to the current CFP opportunity for the Nittany Lions.
The journey wasn’t just about new leadership but also about overcoming a tarnished reputation. Connor McGovern, a part of the 2016 Big Ten championship team, believes the team has finally stepped out of the shadow cast by past controversies. This history weighs heavily on current coach James Franklin, whose tenure is often judged by how close he can bring Penn State to national championship glory.
Meanwhile, SMU’s story mirrors that of Penn State in its own way. The Mustangs were once college football royalty in the 1980s until the NCAA’s ‘death penalty’ for a pay-for-play scheme reduced them to a cautionary tale. After years of struggle and rebuilding, SMU’s recent ACC title signifies a significant turnaround. Coach Rhett Lashlee credits the groundwork laid by his predecessors, likening the effort to finally opening a tightly sealed pickle jar after years of effort.
For both teams, this CFP debut is a testament to resilience. Players like Sean Clifford, a former Penn State quarterback, acknowledge the impact of near misses in previous years when Penn State finished in the top 12 without making the playoffs. Now, as Penn State prepares to host SMU, the stakes are high, not just for a shot at glory but to validate the hard-fought journey back to prominence.
James Franklin’s role is key in this narrative, praised by former players for his personal investment in their lives and careers. Under his leadership, Penn State has navigated past scandals and continues to rebuild its reputation, even amidst criticism of his record against top teams.
For Penn State and SMU, the College Football Playoff isn’t just another game; it’s a hopeful chapter in their storied histories. As they take to the field, they carry with them the dreams of those who stayed through the tough times, paving the path for the successes they aim to achieve now.
Penn State and SMU’s upcoming clash in the College Football Playoff isn’t just a game; it’s a milestone and potential turning point for both programs. As they aim to redefine their legacies, the weight of history lies heavily on their shoulders, making this debut an engaging narrative of determination, resilience, and ambition in the face of past trials.
Source: Apnews
