Has Matt Campbell lowered Penn State's floor? The 0-2 Big Ten start raises an uncomfortable question
247Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Matt Campbell's late hiring as Penn State's head coach has led to an adjustment period, despite initial high expectations due to a seemingly favorable schedule.
- After five games in the 2026 season, Penn State stands at 3-2 overall and 0-2 in the Big Ten, raising concerns about the program's current performance and roster changes.
- Recent losses to Wisconsin and Northwestern highlighted defensive struggles, including surrendering 413 rushing yards and blowing a 10-point lead late in the game.
- The upcoming games against USC and Michigan pose significant challenges, with the team already facing the possibility of consecutive losing streaks not seen since the mid-2010s.
- While Penn State had maintained a strong baseline of success under former coach James Franklin, consistently achieving 10-win seasons, sustaining that level may prove difficult under Campbell's leadership.
