While quarterbacks typically grab headlines in college football, Penn State’s championship aspirations rest heavily on two exceptional running backs who have transformed James Franklin’s offense.
Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen represent college football’s most productive backfield tandem, and their decision to return for a fourth season positions the Nittany Lions as legitimate national title contenders.
Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen: The Heartbeat of Franklin’s Offense
In an era dominated by passing attacks and quarterback play, elite running backs provide the foundation for championship teams. That’s precisely what makes Singleton and Allen invaluable to Penn State’s success.
Since arriving as coveted recruits in 2022, Singleton and Allen have formed one of college football’s most effective backfield partnerships. They’ve shared carries without conflict, consistently delivering when the team needs them most.
CBS Sports’ Carter Bahns wrote, “The Penn State running backs have been the definition of a dynamic duo since they signed together as blue-chip recruits in the 2022 class.” From their freshman year forward, they’ve demonstrated exceptional chemistry and production.
Last season marked career milestones for both backs. Singleton rushed for 1,099 yards and 12 touchdowns, while Allen posted 1,108 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. Together, they combined for seven receiving touchdowns, showcasing their versatility as receiving threats. Bahns noted, “They carried the Penn State offense at times throughout the run to the CFP semifinals,” with the statistics validating their impact.
“You got an opportunity to prove why you two are the best two backs in f—ing America!”
Drew Allar hyping up Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen 😤 pic.twitter.com/7oaXqRuZLi
— ESPN (@espn) January 10, 2025
Their decision to return carries significant weight. Both players possessed strong NFL Draft prospects, and ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. ranked Allen and Singleton as the fifth and sixth running backs available. Yet they chose to pursue unfinished business in Happy Valley, demonstrating the leadership and championship mentality that defines elite programs.
Their presence creates balance for quarterback Drew Allar’s development in 2025. As Bahns observed, “They could face lighter boxes in 2025 with Drew Allar and the passing game likely to take a leap forward.”
Penn State may operate without the fanfare surrounding other playoff contenders. Running back rarely dominates championship conversations in modern college football. However, this exceptional backfield duo could become the difference-maker in Penn State’s pursuit of its first national championship since 1986.
