Penn State Sports: A Year of Surprises and Comebacks

Penn State's sports scene in 2025 was anything but boring. The year kicked off with a bang, as the iconic press box at Beaver Stadium was torn down on a cold January morning. This marked the start of a year filled with unexpected twists and turns. The wrestling team, however, was a constant source of pride. They dominated the NCAA championships, securing their fourth consecutive title. Every wrestler on the team earned All-American status, a feat that showcased the strength and depth of the program. Spring and summer brought success in high school sports, with track and baseball teams bringing home titles. But the biggest buzz came from NFL star Micah Parsons. He returned to his hometown of Harrisburg, working out with local high school players and hosting a football camp. The community honored him by retiring his jersey number and declaring a day in his name.Football season started with high hopes, as Penn State was ranked second in the preseason polls. Head coach James Franklin called it his most complete team yet. But the season quickly took a turn. After a shaky start, the team suffered a heartbreaking double-overtime loss to Oregon. Things went downhill from there, with a six-game losing streak that ultimately cost Franklin his job. Interim coach Terry Smith stepped in, facing a daunting schedule that included games against top-ranked teams. Despite the challenges, Smith led the team to a bowl game victory against Clemson. The win capped off a rollercoaster season, leaving fans hopeful for the future. The year ended on a high note, with the hiring of new head coach Matt Campbell. His introduction brought a sense of optimism, as the program looked to build on the lessons learned from a year of ups and downs.