Penn State defeats Michigan State, 28-10: Live postgame reaction

Summary of Penn State defeats Michigan State, 28-10: Live postgame reaction

by The Dispatch

45m•November 16, 2025
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Overview of Penn State defeats Michigan State, 28-10: Live postgame reaction

This live postgame episode of The Nittany Dispatch (hosts John Sauber and Audrey Snyder) breaks down Penn State’s 28–10 road win at Michigan State. The win felt like a release for a beleaguered team — a physical, downhill performance led by the offensive line, a dominant defensive second half, and a morale-boosting locker-room celebration (including the return of the Land Grant Trophy). The hosts also dive into the evolving Penn State coaching search, roster/portal implications, and what to watch next.

Game recap — what happened on the field

  • Final score: Penn State 28, Michigan State 10 (in East Lansing).
  • Game feel: A physical, run-first identity game — the offense leaned on the offensive line and ground game to control the second half.
  • Key stat: Catron Allen — 25 carries for 181 yards and 2 TDs (drive-closing work and statement performance).
  • QB note: Redshirt freshman Ethan Grunkemeyer showed improvement — calmer, more controlled; connected on a 75-yard TD to Devante Ross (one of the few explosive offensive plays all season).
  • Defense: After giving up a score on MSU’s opening play, Penn State’s defense allowed just 3 more points and generated consistent pressure vs. an overmatched MSU OL.
  • Significance: First win since Sept. 13 — a much-needed morale boost even if the opponent is one of the weaker Big Ten teams this year.

Key takeaways and themes

  • “This looked like what they were supposed to be” — a more physical, run-heavy identity the staff has been pushing for.
  • The offensive line and backs made a concerted statement after criticism; the OL even celebrated in the media room together.
  • The win is largely a feel-good moment for players and staff; there’s lingering frustration that similar formulae didn’t work earlier in the season.
  • Many small-season swings (Oregon fumble, close losses) contributed to the poor record — this win doesn’t erase those missed opportunities.
  • The defense looked closer to the anticipated level when it had a clear physical advantage.

Players & staff highlights

  • Offensive line: Walked out to make a point — coaches and players celebrated their run-blocking performance.
  • Catron Allen: Workhorse performance (25 carries / 181 yards / 2 TDs).
  • Ethan Grunkemeyer: Took a step forward as a young QB; still learning but trending positively.
  • Terry Smith (interim HC/cornerbacks coach): Huge positive — players rallied around him, celebrated with a Gatorade shower and carried him; widely viewed as someone who should be retained by the next staff if possible.
  • Defense: Pass rush and coverage were dominant once physical advantage established; MSU’s talent level amplified Penn State’s effectiveness.

Land Grant Trophy & atmosphere

  • The Land Grant Trophy was on the field and brought back to State College; players took care not to damage the fragile top piece.
  • The trophy moment symbolized relief and celebration for a team that has been under heavy strain all season.
  • Atmosphere: Postgame locker-room energy, lifting staff/players, strong emotional release after a difficult run of games.

Coaching search — big developments and candidates

  • Mike Elko (Texas A&M): No longer a likely candidate — expected to sign an extension with A&M; Penn State did pursue him but he’s staying.
  • Kalen DeBoer (Alabama OC): “Door swinging open” — hosts suggest DeBoer is now a top realistic target if Alabama becomes volatile. Seen as high-upside and a strong fit.
  • James Franklin: Reported ongoing discussions with Virginia Tech; hosts believe a decision could come within ~48 hours. Franklin taking a job would reduce Penn State’s contractual mitigation concerns and accelerate the coaching transition.
  • Other names discussed: Marcus Freeman (likely NFL if he leaves Notre Dame), Brent Key (Tier-2 candidate), Bob Chesney (JMU), Will Stein, and coaches like Drinkwitz/Heartline were mentioned but seen as less likely or mismatched to reported interest.
  • Pat Kraft (AD) on sidelines: Hosts don’t think his sideline enthusiasm will drive away candidates; personality fit varies by coach.
  • Timeline: Penn State appears comfortable “chasing” higher-end names and won’t rush; no guaranteed hire date but not expected to wait until January.

Roster, transfer portal, and retention concerns

  • All players are potential portal candidates — retention will depend on incoming coach, scheme, and staff.
  • Some names to watch: Darius Dixon (freshman CB), Chaz Coleman (injury-limited), Kobe Howard, Ethan Grunkemeyer — these are players Penn State and fans want to retain, but nothing is assured.
  • Hosts expect more retention than worst-case scenarios predict (players often choose stability), but recommend fans not get attached to any roster players yet.
  • Portal reality: Programs will recruit Penn State players; staff retention and offensive/defensive schemes will influence decisions.

Notable quotes / lines

  • “This is what James Franklin wanted this to look like going into this year.” — Host reflecting on the win’s style and identity.
  • “Where was this the whole time?” — Players and staff will be asking why this performance didn’t come earlier in the season.
  • On Terry Smith: “These guys play for him. They believe in him.”

What to watch next (short-term)

  • Coaching developments: watch for decisions on James Franklin and the priority targets (DeBoer, others). Any hire will quickly shape staff retention and portal movement.
  • Senior Day and the Nebraska game: upcoming home milestones and roster evaluations.
  • Portal movement: which players enter, who commits to stay, and whether Terry Smith or other staff are retained.
  • Quarterback development: follow Grunkemeyer’s progression and how an incoming coach views Penn State’s QB room.

Bottom line

  • The 28–10 win provided a much-needed morale reset and offered a clearer glimpse at the physical identity Penn State has been trying to recapture.
  • The coaching search is in flux: Elko likely out, DeBoer gaining traction, and James Franklin’s reported Virginia Tech talks could produce a near-term resolution.
  • Roster uncertainty remains high; the next head coach and staff will determine how much turnover happens. The win buys breathing room, but bigger decisions loom quickly.