Ep. 217 | So It Begins

Welcome back to Hardcore Penn State Football, the go-to podcast for hardcore analysis, recruiting scoops, and unapologetic takes on the Nittany Lions! In this episode – dropping January 28, 2026 – hosts Shawn Kane and Cory Lestochi unpack a massive week in Happy Valley as the Matt Campbell era ramps up. We're diving into the freshly released 2026 Big Ten schedule, the transfer portal's chaotic close with key wins and losses, Beaver Stadium's transformation into a hockey haven, and the flurry of offers to the 2027 class following a pivotal visit weekend. From on-field projections to offseason buzz, this episode sets the stage for PSU's bounce-back year – don't miss it!

The wait is over – the Big Ten drops the 2026 football slate, and Penn State's path looks primed for contention under Campbell! Shawn breaks down the full lineup: Non-con openers vs. Marshall (Sept. 5, home), at Temple (Sept. 12), and vs. Buffalo (Sept. 19, home); Big Ten kicks off with Wisconsin (Sept. 26, home - potential Stripeout), at Northwestern (Oct. 3), USC (Oct. 10, home - Whiteout candidate), at Michigan (Oct. 17), bye (Oct. 24), Purdue (Oct. 31, home), at Washington (Nov. 7), Minnesota (Nov. 14, home), at Rutgers (Nov. 21), and Maryland (Nov. 28, home). Cory analyzes tough road tests (Michigan, Washington) vs. favorable home draws, early win projections (9-3 floor?), and how Campbell's schemes exploit matchups. We debate fan themes, travel logistics, and playoff implications in the expanded CFP era.

The winter portal slammed shut on January 16, capping a wild rebuild for PSU with over 40 departures but a massive influx of talent – including 39 transfers and 11 high school signees for over 50 newcomers! Cory spotlights additions like edge rusher Elijah Reeder (late 2026 signee from New Jersey), seven new defensive linemen for trench depth, and RB Cam Wallace's portal withdrawal for a return. Shawn covers losses like DE Chaz Coleman and QB Ethan Grunkemeyer, mixed grades (strong Iowa State pipeline but underwhelming elsewhere), early enrollees, and how this reshapes the roster for spring ball. We discuss NIL impacts, retention successes, and Big Ten comparisons.

Happy Valley's iconic venue goes winter wonderland! Beaver Stadium hosts Penn State men's hockey vs. Michigan State on January 31 at 1 PM, with public skating kicking off today (Jan. 28) and women's hockey vs. Robert Morris the day before. Shawn shares the time-lapse of the ice rink setup, ticket info, and fan excitement for this historic outdoor clash. Cory discusses the games, weather prep, and how it boosts PSU's multi-sport vibe – plus, crossover appeal for football fans tailgating in the snow!

 

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