Why Everyone Is Completely Misinformed About Drew Allar: 5 Startling Facts About Penn State’s Orange Bowl Loss That Go Beyond the Interception….

**Why Everyone Is Completely Misinformed About Drew Allar: 5 Startling Facts About Penn State’s Orange Bowl Loss That Go Beyond the Interception**

After Penn State’s tough loss to **Notre Dame** in the 2024 Orange Bowl, much of the post-game analysis has centered on quarterback **Drew Allar** and his costly interception late in the game. However, this focus on the pick has caused many to overlook crucial factors that contributed to the Nittany Lions’ defeat. Here are five startling facts about the game that go beyond Allar’s interception and shed light on why the loss cannot be attributed solely to the sophomore quarterback.

### 1. **The Offensive Line Struggled All Game Long**
While much of the blame has been placed on Allar for his late interception, the offensive line’s performance in the Orange Bowl was just as much of a factor. Notre Dame’s defensive front controlled the line of scrimmage, consistently pressuring Allar and forcing him to make hurried decisions. Penn State’s offensive line allowed four sacks and struggled to establish a running game, with **Kaytron Allen** and **Nick Singleton** failing to gain consistent yards. The inability to protect Allar and create running lanes made it difficult for the offense to find rhythm throughout the game.

### 2. **Missed Opportunities in the Red Zone**
Despite Allar’s struggles, Penn State had multiple opportunities to score, particularly in the red zone. The Nittany Lions had four possessions inside Notre Dame’s 20-yard line, but they were only able to capitalize on one of them. Poor play-calling and miscommunication resulted in costly mistakes, leaving points on the field. This inability to convert when it mattered most put additional pressure on Allar to make something happen, ultimately leading to mistakes.

### 3. **Injuries Hampered Key Playmakers**
Throughout the game, Penn State was missing key offensive playmakers due to injuries. Wide receiver **Parker Washington**, who had been a reliable target all season, was sidelined, leaving Allar with fewer options in the passing game. Tight end **Theo Johnson** also played through an injury, limiting his effectiveness in both the blocking and receiving game. These absences made it harder for Allar to execute the offense and put more strain on an already challenged line.

### 4. **Notre Dame’s Defense Was Elite**
While many focus on Allar’s interception as the turning point, it’s important to recognize the strength of Notre Dame’s defense. The Fighting Irish boasted one of the most dominant defensive lines in the country, and their secondary, led by standout cornerback **Benjamin Morrison**, played tight coverage all game. Allar was forced to throw into tight windows, and several of his passes were contested or deflected. Notre Dame’s defense, especially in critical moments, was a key factor in Penn State’s inability to score effectively.

### 5. **The Nittany Lions’ Inability to Adapt**
Another overlooked aspect of the game was Penn State’s inability to make adjustments. After a promising first half, the Nittany Lions struggled to adapt to Notre Dame’s defensive schemes in the second half. Offensive coordinator **Mike Yurcich** failed to adjust the play calling to counteract Notre Dame’s defensive pressure, and the offense seemed stuck in a predictable pattern. This lack of adaptation left Allar and the offense playing catch-up, exacerbating the pressure on the young quarterback.

In conclusion, while Drew Allar’s interception was a critical moment in Penn State’s Orange Bowl loss, it was far from the sole reason for the defeat. The struggles of the offensive line, missed red zone opportunities, key injuries, Notre Dame’s defensive dominance, and the lack of in-game adjustments all played major roles in the outcome. Rather than placing the blame on a single mistake, it’s important to view the game as a collective effort, one that highlights areas for improvement as Penn State looks ahead to the 2025 season.