Penn State Football: Best, worst, and most likely scenarios for 2021

Best-case scenario

The best-case scenario for Penn State is not as far-fetched as some may think. The Nittany Lions have a lot of talent thanks to recent solid recruiting classes. They would just need to overcome some of their deficiencies.

First Sean Clifford would need to return to his 2019 form. The talent surrounding Clifford makes him look better. With the bevy of weapons, Clifford would spread the ball around and keep opposing defenses on their toes.

The inexperienced defensive front would need to come together faster than expected and generate a significant pass rush. The already solid secondary would shut down opposing air attacks.

The Nittany Lions start off on the road against Wisconsin and pick up a win to get the momentum started. Then they come home and rattle off four straight home wins including games against Auburn and Indiana.

Next up is a road trip to Iowa City. Despite some close calls in the past, the Nittany Lions have not lost at Iowa since 2010. The trend will continue this season.

After a bye week, the Nittany Lions pick up a homecoming victory over Illinois. A close game in Columbus produces the first hiccup of the season at the end of October.

During the home stretch in November, the Lions win all four of their games in convincing fashion, including a win over Michigan, to end their regular season.

Despite a loss to the Buckeyes, it is possible the Nittany Lions would find themselves in the College Football Playoff discussion depending on what else happened around the country. Regardless a one-loss Penn State team is sure to be a lock for a New Year’s Six bowl game.

Best case: 11-1, 7-1 Big Ten