The 2026 schedule marks the beginning of the Campbell era, and it gives Penn State a chance to rebuild confidence and stack wins. However, even if the Nittany Lions take advantage of the lighter schedule, doubts will remain. Until Penn State beats a true top-level opponent, they will continue to be seen as pretenders rather than contenders.

Penn State ended their whirlwind season with a win over Clemson at the Pinstripe Bowl on Saturday. The win also marked the end of the tenure of interim head coach Terry Smith, who took over the top job for the Nittany Lions after James Franklin was fired in the middle of the season.