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Penn State’s football team has gained significant attention for its powerful run game, which has been instrumental during its postseason success. Over the past four games, including matchups against three College Football Playoff teams, the Nittany Lions averaged 230.3 rushing yards per game. Running backs Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton each surpassed 1,000 rushing yards for the season during their Fiesta Bowl victory against Boise State.

However, head coach James Franklin believes the team’s wide receivers deserve more recognition. While the spotlight has largely been on the ground game, several receivers have delivered key plays during Penn State’s playoff run to the Orange Bowl against Notre Dame. Franklin highlighted the contributions of players like Omari Evans, who he praised for his “superpower” speed.

Evans has shown flashes of brilliance, including a 38-yard touchdown catch and a difficult 17-yard reception in the Fiesta Bowl. A former high school quarterback, Evans is still developing as a wide receiver but is starting to maximize his potential. “Omari has a superpower. He can run, run,” Franklin said. “But he’s beginning to embrace all the other aspects of the position.”

Despite limited production—Evans has 21 catches and five touchdowns this season—Franklin sees immense growth potential in the young receiver. “He’s blocking, being physical, and making plays downfield. His confidence is soaring, and I don’t think he’s anywhere close to his full potential,” Franklin added.

While Penn State’s offense isn’t built around its wide receivers, the group has been effective in key moments, providing balance to an attack centered on its dominant run game, mobile quarterback Drew Allar, and versatile tight end Tyler Warren. Franklin praised the receivers for their all-around contributions, including clutch plays and effective blocking, which have kept opposing defenses honest during Penn State’s playoff run.

The Nittany Lions are unlikely to have a 1,000-yard receiver this season, but that hasn’t been necessary. Instead, the receivers’ ability to complement the team’s strengths has been enough to fuel their success and secure a spot in the Ora

nge Bowl.