BREAKING NEWS: Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin stunned fans, the entire team, and analysts with an announcement: Abdul Carter will be the starting quarterback for the 2025 season, replacing two-year starter Drew Allar.
At a press conference in Beaver Stadium, Franklin declared that Carter, a fifth-year senior from Philadelphia, earned the starting nod after a remarkable spring camp performance. “Abdul has demonstrated elite arm talent, leadership, and composure under pressure,” Franklin said. “He’s our guy.”
A three-star recruit out of Philadelphia’s Imhotep Charter High School, Carter passed for 2,345 yards and 18 touchdowns as a senior but drew no scholarship offers. Penn State invited him as a preferred walk-on, drawn by his work ethic and leadership at camps.
Carter, a walk-on three seasons ago, initially joined the program as a safety before transitioning to offense last summer. His rapid development caught coaches by surprise and analysts off guard. During the Blue-White spring scrimmage last month, Carter completed 22-of-28 passes for 318 yards and four touchdowns, earning offensive MVP honors.
“I’m overwhelmed and grateful,” Carter said, visibly emotional. “This journey has been unexpected. I owe everything to my teammates, coaches, and the Penn State family.” He added that he plans to leverage his defensive background to read opposing coverages and excel in the spread offense installed by offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich.
Reactions were immediate. ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit called the announcement “one of the boldest moves I’ve ever seen from a head coach” and said it could redefine Penn State’s offense. College football writer Ross Dellenger wrote, “Franklin’s decision to go with a walk-on signals huge confidence. Expect big plays.” Teammates praised Carter’s work ethic and leadership.
However, questions remain about benching Drew Allar, who led the Nittany Lions to an Orange Bowl victory last year. Allar, who announced his return for his senior season, has yet to comment publicly. Sources indicate he will serve as the backup and mentor.
Analysts are debating how this move will impact Penn State’s playoff aspirations. The Nittany Lions open their season on September 6 against West Virginia, followed by a showdown at No. 5 Michigan. With Carter at the helm, observers will watch closely to see if Franklin’s gamble pays off.
The decision cements Franklin’s reputation for unpredictability and willingness to shake up convention. As fans depart the stadium, one question lingers: can Abdul Carter deliver on the coach’s  bold promise?