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Tag: Nittany Lions

  • The True Kickoff Weekend – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    It’s Another Fresh Start for All of Philly’s College Football Programs.

    Sure, Labor Day weekend is the unofficial start of the college football around our region. But it’s the following weekend (September 6th, this year) that all of Philly’s collegiate football teams will be in action — the first time since the end of 2024. 

    For Philadelphia — whose city is rooted deep the history of the very beginnings of our great country — college football greatness runs equally as deep in our history. So far — we’ve only got one true football dynasty — the Penn Quakers football team who won the national championship in 1894, 1895, 1897, and again in 1904, and 1907–1908 (unless the present-day Eagles make it happen of course.)

    Last weekend — Philly college’s season began on a high-note. Temple Football began the K.C. Keeler opened his chapter as Head Coach with a 42–10 win over UMass including a 128-yard performance from Jay Ducker and 467 total yards of offense and six touchdowns from quarterback Eric Simon.

    Oct 5, 2024; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lion players sing their alma mater following the game against the UCLA Bruins at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn ImagesOct 5, 2024; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lion players sing their alma mater following the game against the UCLA Bruins at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images

    Just over 145 miles away in Happy Valley — Penn State kicked off its season where they left off for most of 2024 with Imhotep Charter’s Mylachi Williams, Jabree Coleman, and Tyseer Denmark among other Philly connections who helped to routed the Nevada Wolfpack and quarterback Chubba Purdy by a final score of 46–11 — including three takeaways and 438 yards of total offense. Fans enjoyed frozen treats on campus from the legendary Penn State Berkey Creamery — whose research program started as far back as as 160 years ago during the American Civil War with over 200 cows still on campus.

    It will be a tough act to follow — with both ABC and ESPN recording a record-setting over ten million viewers for just three games. But for all of Philadelphia’s collegiate programs in action this Saturday for the first time in 2025 — the best is yet to come.

    Tags: Brock Purdy Drew Allar James Franklin Nittany Lions Penn State Football Penn State Nittany Lions Temple Football

    Categorized:College More PHL News

    Michael Thomas Leibrandt

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  • Does Jahan Dotson Fit Eagles’ Wide Receivers? – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    Does Jahan Dotson Fit Eagles’ Wide Receivers? – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    Jahan Dotson’s arrival in Philadelphia marks an exciting opportunity for both the player and the Eagles’ offense.

    As the team seeks to solidify their wide receiver corps, securing Dotson through a trade with the Washington Commanders answers lingering questions about their WR3 position.


    With his impressive speed and versatility, Dotson brings a dynamic edge, ready to complement stars A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.

    This new chapter could help him unlock his full potential in a system that may suit his skills perfectly.


    Dotson’s Role in the Eagles’ Offense

    The Eagles’ decision to bring in Dotson has certainly generated interest, especially with the recent signing of star running back Saquon Barkley to a substantial three-year, $37.75 million deal. Dotson’s playful response on social media, jokingly asking, “Whose MUT team is this?”—referring to Madden Ultimate Team—speaks to the playful camaraderie that often develops within a competitive franchise. Now, as part of an offense that seems to be in ‘Franchise Mode,’ Dotson represents a strategic upgrade that the Eagles clearly need.During the offseason, the Eagles were grappling with the challenge of finding a reliable third wide receiver to support their already impressive duo. A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith have proven to be formidable forces on the field, leaving the WR3 spot up for grabs. Despite efforts to evaluate veterans such as Parris Campbell, John Ross, and Britain Covey, none were able to firmly establish themselves during training camp. Dotson, who comes in at just 24 with a promising background, now has the opportunity to take over this critical role.

    PHOTO: Wallpapers.com

    Dotson caught 84 passes for 1,041 yards and 11 touchdowns during his two years with the Commanders. However, his journey hasn’t been without hurdles. Playing with an array of quarterbacks, such as Carson Wentz and Taylor Heinicke, Dotson experienced the ups and downs of a constantly shifting offensive structure. Although he showcased flashes of brilliance, his statistics reveal a need for improvement in consistency. For instance, last season, his targets per route run and yards per route run ranked among the lowest among wide receivers, and he also struggled with a notable drop percentage.


    As he transitions to the Eagles, Dotson’s ability to make the most of limited opportunities becomes paramount.


    The offensive strategy led by head coach Kellen Moore seems to indicate a shift in approach, allowing receivers more movement and flexibility. This could be a boon for Dotson, who is primarily effective in the slot but has also demonstrated the ability to line up on the outside. This versatility means that when other top receivers like Smith and Brown move into different roles, Dotson can step up and fill the gaps as needed.Dotson’s speed cannot be overlooked; clocking in at 4.43 seconds for the 40-yard dash at the combine, he possesses the ability to stretch the field, which could create more opportunities for his teammates. Given the Eagles’ plans to utilize Barkley in the passing game as well, there’s a possibility that defenses will need to devote significant resources to managing multiple offensive threats. This opens up a chance for Dotson to become a reliable outlet when the primary stars are covered.The training bonds he has formed with A.J. Brown could also play a vital role in Dotson’s adaptation to his new team. The two have worked together in the offseason, pushing each other to new heights. Their shared goal of excellence, as seen in their competitive training sessions, could translate into on-field chemistry throughout the NFL season. Moreover, Dotson’s connection to the Nittany Lions with Saquon Barkley could help him acclimate more quickly to the team dynamics.While the Eagles did give up valuable draft picks to acquire Dotson, the team’s strategic planning regarding their 2025 capital provides some reassurance. Losing one third-round pick is a worthwhile trade-off for a player who has the potential to fulfill the WR3 role and contribute positively to the team. General manager Howie Roseman has shown his ability to work within the confines of draft strategy while also being aggressive in making moves that could benefit the team’s immediate success.Ultimately, the Eagles are banking on Dotson’s ability to rise to the occasion and seize the opportunities that come his way. The expectations for him may differ from his previous role in Washington. Still, if he can keep defenders honest while remaining ready to contribute when called on, he could become an essential piece of Philadelphia’s offense. All eyes will be on Dotson as he steps into what many hope will be a breakout season in green and white, bringing his talents to a team eager to contend for a championship.


    With the Eagles’ newfound depth at wide receiver, betting odds are likely to reflect the enhanced threat they pose in the league.

    PHOTO: Wallpapers.com

    PHLSportsNation

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  • Listen to the Penn State Nittany Lions vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Matchup on October 21

    Listen to the Penn State Nittany Lions vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Matchup on October 21

    The No. 7 Penn State Nittany Lions are headed to Columbus, OH, to take on the No. 3 Ohio State Buckeyes on October 21 at 12:00pm ET.

    You can listen to every snap live from Ohio Stadium on the SiriusXM App and in car radios with your choice of the home or away feed.


    Stream the Ohio State Buckeyes broadcast (Ch. 82)

    Stream the Penn State Nittany Lions broadcast (Ch. 958)


    Home: Ohio State Buckeyes

    Leading Ohio State is QB Kyle McCord, who leads the Big Ten with a quarterback efficiency rating of 165.9 and an average of 275.2 passing yards per game.

    Tight end Cade Stover has been turning heads with 23 catches for 359 yards and three touchdowns this year. He’s ranked third in the nation among tight ends for receiving yards per game and fourth in receptions.

    Wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. has been setting the field ablaze with four 100-yard receiving games in 2023. He’s closing in on a career record, needing just three more to tie David Boston‘s mark from 1996-98.

    On the defensive side, Ohio State holds its own, ranking seventh nationally in total defense, allowing just 263.5 yards per game.

    Away: Penn State Nittany Lions

    In 2023, QB Drew Allar has thrown over 150 passes without a single interception. Allar’s completed 65.2% of his passes, accumulating 1,254 yards and 12 touchdowns, while also contributing three rushing scores.

    But the Nittany Lions don’t stop at their quarterback; they’ve got a running back trio of dynamic sophomores Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton, along with redshirt senior Treyson Potts. Each of them has surpassed the 1,200 career rushing yards mark, a feat achieved by only seven FBS teams in the nation.

    Defensively, Penn State leads the nation in total defense, passing defense, passing efficiency defense, first downs allowed, and sacks per game.


    Ohio State Buckeyes Home Feed:

    SiriusXM channel 82 in your vehicle

    Channel 82 on the SiriusXM App

    Penn State Nittany Lions Away Feed:

    SiriusXM channel 196 in your vehicle

    Channel 958 on the SiriusXM App


    Want to listen to more games? Throughout the 2023 College Football season, SiriusXM listeners get access to dozens of game broadcasts each week involving teams from the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12, SEC, and other conferences — plus Army, Navy, HBCU football and more. For more information about SiriusXM’s college football offerings, click here.


    Matthew Fanizza

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