Drew Allar has previously attended the Big Ten championship game. As Penn State’s quarterback, the Ohio native, who grew up supporting Ohio State, visited Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis a few times for the conference title match. He recalls watching Ohio State defeat Michigan State in 2013.
Now, a decade later, Allar won’t be in the stands but will be playing a crucial role when Penn State faces Oregon for the Big Ten title on Saturday in Indianapolis.
Allar has been key to Penn State’s success this season. The junior has thrown for 2,668 yards, 18 touchdowns, and only five interceptions, with a 71.6% completion rate and 9.4 yards per attempt, ranking him fifth among FBS quarterbacks. He has developed significantly under offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki and assistant coach Danny O’Brien.
However, Allar will face a major test this weekend. The Big Ten championship offers him a chance to shine under pressure, as he faces one of the top defenses in college football.
While Oregon’s offense, led by quarterback Dillon Gabriel and a variety of dynamic players, has earned the spotlight, their undefeated record is largely due to their defense.
Oregon ranks seventh in total defense (283.8 yards per game allowed), eighth in pass defense (171.5 yards per game), ninth in scoring defense (16.2 points per game), sixth in sacks (39), and sixth in passes defended (68) among 134 FBS teams.
Asked about Oregon’s defense, Allar compared it to others he has faced this season: “Structurally, there are a couple defenses they’re similar to. Every team runs different coverages, but what stands out to me is their overall team speed on defense. They’re probably the fastest defense we’ve played, and they’re really physical in the front seven. Their D-line and linebackers are excellent—fast and physical. It’s a strong combination. In the secondary, they contest a lot of passes and make plays. It’s going to be a challenge.”
Allar also spoke specifically about Oregon’s dominant defensive line, which includes Matayo Uiagalelei (leading the Big Ten with 10 1/2 sacks) and edge rusher Jordan Burch (with 8 1/2 sacks despite missing four games due to injury). He also highlighted interior linemen Derrick Harmon and Jamaree Caldwell, who have combined for 65 quarterback pressures and 12 tackles for loss.
“They’re huge up front in terms of height and weight, but they move surprisingly well. The two edge rushers are disruptive both in the pass and run game. Caldwell, although a bigger guy, gets off the ball quickly. They move him around, which is a bit different from what we’ve seen. Harmon is similar. Their starting four is a very talented group. Our O-line is preparing for this challenge.”
We’ll see how Allar and the Nittany Lions perform against the Ducks on Saturday.
The game kicks off at 8 p.m. on CBS.
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