What's Happening?
As the 2025 season concludes, Penn State's football program is gearing up for significant changes in 2026. The team ended the year with a strong performance, winning four consecutive games, including a victory
at the Pinstripe Bowl against Clemson. With the transfer portal set to open on January 2, the team is expected to undergo a substantial roster transformation. Head coach Matt Campbell is actively working to finalize his coaching staff, retaining key personnel like special teams coach Justin Lustig, who has been instrumental in leading the nation's top-rated special teams unit. Additionally, D'Anton Lynn, formerly USC's defensive coordinator, is anticipated to join the staff, marking a return to his alma mater. Meanwhile, Terry Smith, who served as interim head coach, will transition to an associate head coach role under Campbell.
Why It's Important?
The upcoming changes at Penn State are crucial as they aim to build on the momentum from the end of the 2025 season. The retention of Justin Lustig and the potential addition of D'Anton Lynn are strategic moves to strengthen the coaching staff, which is vital for maintaining the team's competitive edge. The opening of the transfer portal presents both challenges and opportunities, as the team can attract new talent while potentially losing current players. These developments are significant for Penn State's aspirations to remain a formidable force in college football, impacting recruitment, team dynamics, and overall performance in the upcoming season.
What's Next?
With the transfer portal opening soon, Penn State will likely see a flurry of activity as players enter and exit the program. Coach Matt Campbell will continue to solidify his coaching staff, with positions such as running backs coach and linebackers coach still to be filled. The integration of new staff members and players will be critical in shaping the team's strategy and performance for the 2026 season. The decisions made in the coming weeks will have long-term implications for the program's success and its ability to compete at a high level in the Big Ten and nationally.
