Penn State’s Kaytron Allen Shines in Postseason Run

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Penn State running back Kaytron Allen has emerged as a postseason powerhouse, delivering standout performances in the Nittany Lions’ recent playoff games. The junior running back has averaged 109 rushing yards over three postseason contests, including a season-high 134 yards in the Fiesta Bowl against Boise State. Allen’s resurgence has been a key factor in Penn State’s offensive success as they prepare to face Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl.

Allen’s late-season surge comes after a stretch of inconsistent performances during the regular season. In November, he struggled to find his rhythm, averaging just 2.5 yards per carry in three games. However, since the Big Ten Championship Game, Allen has been a force to be reckoned with, totaling 328 rushing yards and three touchdowns in three postseason games. His physical running style and ability to break tackles have made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

“Kaytron, specifically the month of December, has ran like a wild man,” said Penn State offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki. “His vision, seeing it, and then what he’s doing and how he’s running people over, I mean he has some legitimate big-boy carries on film right now, and it’s fun to watch.”

Allen’s performance in the Fiesta Bowl was particularly noteworthy. Despite a penalty negating a 50-yard run that would have been his longest of the season, Allen’s effort was celebrated by his teammates and coaches. Penn State head coach James Franklin highlighted the play during a team meeting, emphasizing Allen’s impact on the game. “Even though it was called back, I showed it because I thought it was such an impressive run,” Franklin said. “He deserved his flowers in that moment, and so did the rest of the group.”

Allen’s resurgence has been a team effort, with the offensive line playing a crucial role in creating opportunities for him. “There were times throughout the year that maybe the blocked yardage that he was getting, wasn’t good because we weren’t blocking it very well for him,” Kotelnicki said. “And there were times in the year maybe we blocked well, but he just missed it. So it has been an accumulation of reps throughout the whole season.”

Teammates have also taken notice of Allen’s improved play. “Kaytron is playing his best football right now,” said quarterback Drew Allar. “He looks really fast and he’s doing a great job in pass pro. I think Kaytron’s game has really taken the next step, and it’s been fun to see that.”

As Penn State prepares for the Orange Bowl, Allen’s physical running style and postseason success have made him a focal point of the team’s offensive strategy. “Kaytron is just so physical, and he wears people down,” Franklin said. “He’s able to run you over, keep his feet, extend runs.”

With Allen and fellow running back Nicholas Singleton combining for 610 rushing yards in three postseason games, Penn State’s ground game has become a formidable weapon. Notre Dame, their upcoming opponent, is well aware of the challenge they face. “They’re a great running-scheme team,” said Notre Dame defensive lineman Junior Tuihalamaka. “And obviously, if you can’t stop the run, they’re just going to keep running it.”

Allen’s late-season surge has not only boosted Penn State’s offense but also energized the entire team. “Every day, he’s being that guy,” Singleton said. “He’s a team player, everybody loves him to death. He’s trying to make everybody better.”