In a heart-stopping finish at the Orange Bowl, Notre Dame edged out Penn State with a thrilling 27-24 victory on January 10, 2025. This loss stings for Penn State fans, especially as the game showcased a series of ups and downs that left everyone on the edge of their seats. With just seven seconds left on the clock, it was Mitch Jeter who kicked the game-winning 41-yard field goal, sealing the fate of this nail-biter and propelling Notre Dame to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game.
Drama Unfolds in the Final Minutes
The game was not just a contest of skill but a showcase of dramatic moments that had fans at the stadium—and those at home—holding their breath. Just moments before Jeter’s decisive kick, an interception thrown by Penn State’s quarterback Drew Allar gave Notre Dame the chance they needed to claim victory. Allar’s pass was intended for a wide receiver, marking a troubling trend for Penn State, as they failed to complete even a single pass to one of their wideouts throughout the game.
Strong Performances Amidst Disappointment
Despite the loss, some players shone during the match. Nick Singleton had an impressive showing, rushing for three touchdowns, showcasing his talent and determination. On the other hand, Notre Dame’s Riley Leonard completed 15 of 23 passes for 223 yards and a touchdown, further highlighting the tight competition on the field. Jaden Greathouse’s catch of a 54-yard touchdown pass was a pivotal moment, tying the game at 24-24 before Notre Dame secured their victory.
The Challenge of Competing Against Top Teams
This defeat adds to an ongoing streak for Penn State, marking their 13th loss in a row against top-five teams. Coach James Franklin noted the importance of learning from these experiences, yet he recognizes that consistent improvement is needed, particularly in the wide receiver positions. After the game, he expressed his pride in his players while also acknowledging the challenges they faced during the match.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Penn State?
With the end of their College Football Playoff journey, questions loom large about the future of Penn State’s football program. Athletic director Pat Kraft has already hinted at plans for enhancing the team’s wide receiver capabilities, indicating a commitment to making necessary improvements. Fans are left wondering how these changes will shape the team as they look towards next season. Will Penn State finally break the cycle of heartbreak, or are they destined to face the same tough battles?
Notre Dame’s Triumph: A New Chapter
For Notre Dame, this victory is significant—it marks their first appearance in the national championship game since 2012. The love and support of their fans are palpable as they prepare to face off against the winner of the Cotton Bowl between Ohio State and Texas on January 20 in Atlanta. As they march forward, the Fighting Irish have their sights set on clinching the national title, aiming to win it for the first time since 1988.
The Road to Redemption
As fans reflect on this heartbreaking loss, they know that the journey is not over for Penn State. The question remains: will coach James Franklin and his team finally get over the hump and achieve greatness? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear—Penn State football is always a source of excitement, and the hope and passion of its fans run deep.