League: NCAAF Sport: College Sports Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Penn State is ranked No. 21 in Josh Pate's preseason power ratings

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 16, 2026, 1:09 PM

Last updated Aug 16, 2026

Penn State is ranked No. 21 in Josh Pate's preseason power ratings

Summary

As the 2026 college football season approaches, Penn State has been ranked No. 21 in Josh Pate's preseason power ratings. This ranking reflects a lower score than expected in traditional polls, as the Nittany Lions also debuted at No. 17 in the preseason US LBM Coaches Poll. The team, coming off a disappointing 2025 season, has revamped its roster and coaching staff, and will open the season at home against Marshall on September 5. Pate indicated that the Nittany Lions may perform better than their current ratings suggest, and their upcoming schedule includes games against ranked opponents like USC and Michigan.

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By the Numbers

•Penn State is ranked No. 21 in Josh Pate's preseason power ratings.
•The Nittany Lions debuted at No. 17 in the preseason US LBM Coaches Poll.
•Penn State has a new coaching staff and reworked roster after last season.
•The season opener is scheduled for September 5 against Marshall.
•Pate's ratings suggest Penn State may overperform relative to their current rank.

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