ESPN names ‘under-the-radar’ player for Penn State’s 2025 campaign

ESPN is gearing up for the 2025 college football campaign, and the latest preview piece from the worldwide leader takes inventory of “sleeper” players for the top 25 teams in the country.

The premise is simply gauging certain players who might be under-the-radar heading into the season, either as overlooked veterans, incoming freshmen or transfer additions. When it comes to James Franklin and Penn State, ESPN had one key offensive lineman on the list.

Here’s what ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg had to say about including Nick Dawkins, the starting center, as his sleeper selection:

Offensive linemen naturally get overlooked, and Dawkins is no exception, but he once again will occupy a vital role as Penn State chases its first Big Ten title since 2016 and its first national title since 1986. Dawkins is at the heart of an offensive line that has stabilized and excelled in recent years. He earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors last fall, when he served as a captain, started all 16 games and allowed only two sacks. The 6-foot-4, 297-pound senior has drawn excellent reviews from the staff and will lead a line protecting quarterback Drew Allar and creating space for running backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen.

Dawkins started all 16 games for the Nittany Lions last year, so he knows the ropes and will be leaned on to direct the frontline in protecting Allar. While Penn State does have some key production returning from last year’s group, Dawkins can further elevate that group up front.

As we approach the season, Penn State is +800 at BetMGM to win the national title this fall, giving the Nittany Lions the 4th-lowest odds in the country. Penn State can also be had at -235 to reach the Playoff as one of the favorites to make the final field.

Paul Harvey

Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.