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Penn State football reflects on cardboard cutouts during COVID-19

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 11:11 AM

Last updated Jun 12, 2026

Penn State football reflects on cardboard cutouts during COVID-19

Summary

As the 2026 Penn State football season approaches, fans recall the unusual 2020 season that featured cardboard cutouts in the stands due to COVID-19 restrictions. The Nittany Lions faced significant challenges, including a late start to the season and numerous player absences, resulting in an 0-5 start. Ultimately, they managed to win their last four games after the difficult beginning. The upcoming season will feature fans in attendance at Beaver Stadium without the need for cutouts.

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By the Numbers

•2020 season featured cardboard cutouts in Beaver Stadium
•Penn State started the season ranked #7 but went 0-5
•The team won their last four games of the 2020 season
•Fans will return to Beaver Stadium for the 2026 season
•Reflects on the challenges faced during the pandemic

Latest Updates

11:11 AMYahoo Sports — Only the Cost of a COVID-Era Cardboard Cutout Until Penn State Football

What they're saying

"
There is no current Nittany Lion that dons #85, so let’s take a look back at a rather unconventional period for college football. The start of the COVID Pandemic in early 2020 clouded the viability of a football season, something that seemed to be nearly unthinkable. We received news the there would be no Big […]
— Yahoo Sports

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