Big news in college football today! Beau Pribula, a backup quarterback for the Penn State Nittany Lions, has decided to leave the team and enter the transfer portal. This means he is looking for a new school to play for in the future, which could be a significant change for him and the Nittany Lions.
Why Did Beau Pribula Make This Move?
Pribula’s decision comes as he faces some tricky rules set by the NCAA, especially concerning the College Football Playoffs. These rules can make it tough for players like him, who want to keep their options open while still being part of their current team. He stated that he felt caught between wanting to help his team in the playoffs and wanting to find a place where he could start as a quarterback.
Beau’s Journey at Penn State
The 20-year-old quarterback has had a unique journey with the Nittany Lions. During the 2023 season, he played in 13 games, where he completed 26 out of 35 passes, gaining 275 yards through the air. Not only that, but he rushed for 242 yards and scored four touchdowns! His skills were valuable, especially as a backup when the starting quarterback faced an injury.
Impact on the Team
With Pribula leaving, the Nittany Lions are now down to just one experienced quarterback, Drew Allar. Allar has announced his return for the 2025 season, which leaves a big gap for the upcoming playoffs. Coach James Franklin expressed that while they wanted to keep Pribula, the transfer portal’s timing made it difficult for all involved.
| Player | Position | 2023 Season Stats |
|---|---|---|
| Beau Pribula | Quarterback | 26/35, 275 yards, 5 Total TDs |
| Drew Allar | Quarterback | Expected to return for 2025 |
What’s Next for Beau Pribula?
Now that Pribula has a spot in the transfer portal, he will be looking for a school where he can step up as a starting quarterback. He has two years of eligibility left, which gives him several options to choose from. Following his graduation this December, he will have more time to consider where his next football journey will lead him.
Coach James Franklin’s Thoughts
Coach Franklin shared his thoughts on Pribula’s departure. He described the situation as a “no-win” for players navigating between collegiate commitments and transfer opportunities. Franklin noted that they had looked for ways to keep Pribula on the team through the playoffs, but nothing seemed to work out. He emphasized how much they appreciated all of Pribula’s contributions during his time at Penn State.
Conclusion
Beau Pribula’s exit from the team has already started conversations about how the NCAA’s rules can complicate decisions for student-athletes. It also raises questions about what will happen to the Penn State Nittany Lions as they head into the playoffs. Fans will be watching closely as both Pribula and the team navigate these changes in the coming months.
