Penn State head coach James Franklin is eagerly anticipating a strong performance from his running back corps in the 2025 season, particularly with the expected return of Cam Wallace. Wallace, who missed a significant portion of last season due to injury, is one of nine players competing for time in the backfield. The group includes returning stars Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen—who currently hold the top two spots on the depth chart—as well as promising talents like Jabree Coleman, Tikey Hayes, Corey Smith, Quinton Martin Jr., Amiel Davis, and Tyler Holzworth.
Wallace’s case stands out. Before his injury last year, he had earned the No. 3 spot behind Singleton and Allen, delivering a solid performance in the Nittany Lions’ third game against Kent State, where he ran for 63 yards and scored a touchdown on 18 carries. His injury, however, sidelined him and left questions about his comeback.
Speaking to The Daily Collegian on Thursday, Franklin shared a positive update on Wallace’s recovery. “I see him getting more and more confident every single day,” Franklin said. “He’s totally ready to go, but it was a significant injury, so he’s still working through some of those things. He’s starting to look more and more like the Cam we remember every single day, and I’m proud of him.”
Looking ahead, Franklin’s confidence in the depth and potential of the running back unit remains high. Wallace’s health and progress could be pivotal, as he represents a potential X-factor for the team’s 2025 campaign. Franklin enters his 12th season at the helm, having transformed the Nittany Lions into a consistent Big Ten powerhouse during his tenure.
Last season was one of the most memorable under Franklin. The Nittany Lions finished with an impressive 13-3 record, including an 8-1 showing in conference play. Though they narrowly missed out on the Big Ten Championship, falling to the Oregon Ducks 45-37, their strong form carried them into the College Football Playoff semifinals. There, they narrowly lost a hard-fought battle against Notre Dame, 27-24.
With momentum from last season and a stacked roster, Penn State enters 2025 as a team to watch. If players like Wallace can return to peak form, the Nittany Lions may have a real shot at reaching the top of college football.
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