Penn State landed at No. 4 in the AP Poll after rolling through Akron over the weekend.

The Nittany Lions moved up two spots from the original preseason ranking — surpassing Florida State after its loss to Alabama and jumping USC after it struggled at home with unranked Western Michigan.

That No. 4 spot is Penn State’s highest ranking since November 8, 2008, when it was No. 3 prior to its loss that weekend to Iowa.

James Franklin’s squad is behind Alabama, Ohio State, and Clemson after the opening weekend of play.

The Nittany Lions also reached No. 4 in the Coaches’ Poll.

Heading into the Pitt matchup this weekend, Penn State’s Heisman hopefuls Trace McSorley and Saquon Barkley hope to build on the offense’s 569 yards of offense that helped throttle the Zips 52-0 to start the season.

About the Author

Steve Connelly

Unfortunately, former editor Steve Connelly has graduated. Where is he now? He might be doing something related to that PR degree he got in 2019. Maybe he finally opened that sports bar named after one of his photos, the Blurry Zamboni. Or he might just be eating chicken tenders and couch surfing. Anything’s possible. If you really want to know, follow him on Twitter @slc2o.

The Story Behind Penn State Football Running Back Cam Wallace

Wallace broke both of his ankles against Kent State in 2024.

Previewing The Enemy: Washington Huskies

Penn State is set to make its lone West Coast trip of the season.

Staff Predictions: Penn State vs. Washington

Woof.