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Abdul Carter injury: James Franklin sets PSU star as game-time decision for Orange Bowl
By Paul Harvey
Published:
Abdul Carter has been one of the best defenders in the entire country this season and is the most important piece on Penn State‘s defense this season. Unfortunately, he was injured during the Fiesta Bowl win by the Nittany Lions, and his status for the Orange Bowl has been up in the air.
Early in the Fiesta Bowl matchup vs. Boise State, Carter was seen heading to the injury tent where he spent an extended amount of time. Afterward, he was spotted with his left arm heavily wrapped up and did not return to the game. During the postgame trophy ceremony, Carter was mainly seen using his right hand for lifting and holding the trophy.
During a Wednesday press conference, head coach James Franklin set Abdul Carter as a game-time decision for Thursday’s Orange Bowl semifinal vs. Notre Dame. While Franklin also said the Nittany Lions will “anticipate” Carter being able to play, it’s too close to tell right now.
With or without Carter, Notre Dame is entering Thursday’s matchup as a 1.5-point favorite per DraftKings to advance to the national championship game. Be sure to use our DraftKings promo code Ohio for the best offers throughout the rest of the College Football Playoff.
James Franklin gives an update on star defensive end Abdul Carter, who is expected to be a game-time decision on Saturday night. “We anticipate Abdul playing. He’s doing everything he possibly can to play….but it’ll be a game-time decision. And we’ll see.” pic.twitter.com/9AVyonpW8W
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 8, 2025
Abdul Carter was the Big Ten’s Defensive Player of the Year after 22 TFL and 11 sacks. He was named an All-American and is tied for 7th nationally in sacks and is 2nd in TFL.
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.