Penn State defense keys for 2025
For as long as most have been watching Penn State football, the defense has tended to be one of the more stable aspects of the program. What else would you expect from a program that sells itself as Linebacker-U? Despite losing one of the top defensive players in the country to the NFL, the Nittany Lions look to be energized for another strong season in 2025 with lofty expectations placed on the program. A new defensive coordinator, a returning vet with first-round draft outlooks on the defensive line, and one of the nation’s top rising young linebackers, not to mention a steady defensive secondary, there are many reasons to expect a good year out of the Penn State defense.
Here is a look at some of the keys for the Penn State defense in 2025.
Jim Knowles Brings New Energy
The arrival of Jim Knowles as defensive coordinator is one of the biggest changes in Happy Valley. Known for aggressive and complex schemes at Ohio State and Oklahoma State, Knowles is expected to bring more pre-snap confusion and smarter blitzes. The challenge is whether his system can be installed quickly and executed cleanly in Year One. Penn State fans will know early on if his unit is clicking.
Life After Abdul Carter
With Abdul Carter off to the NFL, there’s a leadership void in the front seven. Dani Dennis-Sutton and Zane Durant are now the veterans who must step up. The pass rush has to remain a strength, but also become more consistent in getting home — especially in big games against top-tier offensive lines.
The Defensive Line Must Dominate
Stopping the run is priority No. 1. There were moments last season when Penn State got gashed up the middle. The defensive tackles need to anchor better, and the edge defenders must be disciplined in containment. A great defensive line sets the tone, and this one has to be nasty.
The Secondary Needs to Flip the Turnover Margin
One of the primary complaints about the 2024 defense was that it was unable to produce enough turnovers. That has to change by 2025. Whether that means cornerbacks jumping routes or safeties stripping the ball, the back end needs to give the offense more chances. Keep an eye on KJ Winston and Cam Miller to take the lead.
Finish Games Strong
Penn State’s defense needs to be better at closing. Too many key drives last season slipped away in crunch time. Knowles has to instill discipline and situational awareness so this unit becomes the difference in one-score games, not the downfall.