James Franklin knows the weight of expectation better than almost anyone on campus. His record against top-10 teams (4–20) and especially the top five (just 1–14) keeps haunting him. To change the narrative, Franklin will need Drew Allar to deliver on the promise that made him one of the most highly regarded QB recruits in the nation. Allar’s decision to return after last year’s playoff loss ensures Penn State remains in the championship conversation. But it also places him squarely at the center of Franklin’s push to finally win the bigger games.

Allar’s leadership, his bond with Franklin, and his willingness to push through adversity are fueling this team. In the August 22 episode of NBC Sports , when Nicole Auerbach asked Franklin what Drew Allar can bring to the table? Franklin’s

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