The Big Ten Championship between Oregon and Penn State last year was an absolute rollercoaster. The Nittany Lions’ defense was kept off balance at nearly every turn by the Ducks’ fast and furious offense. What began as an easy win soon became a close game as Penn State fought back, but ultimately, Oregon won 45-37 because of their speed and strategic plays. Now, in the 2025 season, these two teams will face off against each other on this Saturday, September 27, and Penn State’s preparation for one of the biggest whiteouts of the season is still heavily influenced by the memories of those sudden turns and defensive challenges.
In a recent interview with Nittany Sports Now, DE Dani Dennis-Sutton discussed that the way Jim Knowles allows his defensive line to play freely is one of the most important factors for Penn State this weekend. “Coach Knowles does a great job of just letting us play free, especially D-line… just let us get to the quarterback, stop the run, and [we’re] going to make plays,” he said. It’s obvious that Knowles doesn’t overthink each task; instead, he trusts his players to read the game and respond instinctively. “Coach Knowles will put in a call for us to just get the quarterback. That’s our only responsibility. And then from there, I have the freedom to decide what I’m going to do,” he added, showing how Knowles’ philosophy gives them room to make plays on their own.
Of course, everyone is still thinking about the lessons learned from their loss to Oregon in the Big Ten Championship last year. “Last year, obviously, it was a great game in the Big 10 championship… They did a lot of different things that we hadn’t seen all year… We’re expecting the same thing this year, whether it’s tackle over and hurry up offense, all those things. They’re great coached. They have a great team, so we’re expecting everything. That’s what I would say I learned last year,” he reflected. Penn State’s defense was put to the test by the fast and unpredictable Oregon offense back then, and the team is bringing that knowledge into this game.
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Confidence and execution are equally as crucial as the plan. Dani emphasized the high standards Knowles instills by saying, “As a D-line, our standard is if we’re not getting a pressure or sack, it’s not good enough, no matter how quick the ball is coming out.” Penn State is aware that defeating Oregon quarterback Dante Moore and his potent offense will require teamwork, pressure, and an aggressive attitude. “They’re a great team. Obviously, [quarterback Dante Moore] has been doing a great job of running, stepping up in the pocket as well,” Dani admitted.
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Dan Lanning is ready for Penn State’s roaring welcome
Everyone, especially Penn State supporters, can still clearly recall the Big Ten Championship from last December. The Nittany Lions rallied in the closing minutes to win the game, but Oregon came out firing, scoring points early. Drew Allar had the ball and an opportunity to tie the score with less than two minutes remaining, but Ducks defensive back Nikko Reed caught him and ended up winning 45-37. It was Penn State’s heartbreaking reminder of how close the margins are at the top.
As the rematch approaches, Dan Lanning is already being questioned about it everywhere he goes, including on Barstool’s morning show. Lanning was compelled to make fun of Michigan when Dave Portnoy attempted to stir things up. “We got to go to the Big House last year. I don’t know if Dave remembers that one,” he joked. on Oregon’s 38-17 win over the Wolverines. Lanning smiled and added, “That’s part of what you sign up for. That’s part of what’s been so exciting about being in this conference.”
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Of course, he is aware of what Happy Valley has in store for him. The White Out atmosphere, Beaver Stadium’s lights, and 110,000 spectators literally make quarterbacks scream. “Penn State will be an unbelievable venue… they’ve got an unbelievable fan base. It’s going to be loud,” Coach Lanning admitted. Although he has experienced chaotic road games in the past, Saturday night is gonna be entirely different. Although the Ducks have a stronger record thus far this season, Penn State is set to put forth pressure that Dante Moore hasn’t yet experienced.