Penn State’s WR room is stepping into the spotlight, and the pressure is on. With veteran transfers Devonte Ross and Kyron Hudson leading the charge, expectations are rising fast. However, Ross was electric at Troy, hauling in over 1,000 yards and finding the end zone 11 times, including a three-score masterpiece against Iowa. Now, with OC Andy Kotelnicki calling the plays and Drew Allar under center, the foundation is set for something big. But for all the hype, questions still linger. Even head coach James Franklin kept it real, noting, “This summer is going to be really important.”

However, Franklin didn’t stop there—and he wasn’t sugarcoating it anymore. “Nobody’s promised anything,” he said. Adding, “But it’s raised the level of competition in the room… we still need some of those guys who were already on the roster to take the next step, and we’ve seen flashes of that this spring.” Clear words. No fluff. Just a coach making it known—the pressure is on, and spring wasn’t enough to seal the deal. While those flashes haven’t calmed the storm, with expectations swirling and pressure mounting, the heat is turning up in Happy Valley. Now, even a Penn State assistant coach had to step in—offering a strong defense of Drew Allar as whispers of concern around Franklin grow louder. So, to be honest? Damage control mode: fully activated.

On the April 18th episode of Next Up with Adam Breneman, Penn State OC Andy Kotelnicki didn’t hold back when talking about Drew Allar’s growth. When asked what’s next for the young QB this offseason, Kotelnicki’s praise came loud and clear. “So, first of all, he embodies exactly the things I just talked about. The idea of getting better and improving, and having a growth mindset, really, is what we’re really discussing. He recognizes he owns any area that he wants to get better at, you know what I mean? He doesn’t get defensive about it, which I think is—it really is—was one of the most important things to want to be a pro, you know what I mean? To get better is you have to be able to look in the mirror and say, ‘Here’s something I want to improve on,‘” said the PSU OC. So, that’s not just coach speak. That’s belief in a QB who’s ready to take the leap.

And Andy Kotelnicki didn’t hold back when discussing Drew Allar’s development. “He’s been a really good player,” said Kotelnicki. He added, “But how do we go from really good… to great?” That, he explained, is where the margin lives. For newcomers, getting 1% better might mean learning the basics. But for Drew? That 1% is laser-focused—deep in the weeds of detail and precision. That’s the level he’s chasing. And that’s what separates the good from the elite.

Not only this, Kotelnicki had high praise for Drew Allar’s progress this spring. “He said before the things that, you know, he wants to work on,” said Kotelnicki, referring to Drew Allar. “I’ve been so proud because, last offseason, he was coming off a season where he got dinged up, and he didn’t really get to do it all full,” according to Penn State OC.

But this spring was different. Kotelnicki saw Drew at full speed—”running around, super athletic.” That’s a massive jump for Allar, especially in areas he’s been focusing on. However, his biggest goal? “His ability to process and go through reads and progressions.” Getting those right helps keep the offense on track, and Kotelnicki believes Drew is well on his way.

However, Andy Kotelnicki was all praise for Drew Allar’s mental game, calling it a true “superpower.” “His approach mentally to the game is probably the best I’ve ever been around,” Kotelnicki said. “And that’s special because, after 20 years as an offensive coordinator, I’ve seen a lot.” But what stands out most? Drew’s commitment. “He’s not just talking about it—he’s about it,” Kotelnicki continued. “Drew wants to be a pro. He wants to be the best quarterback he can be, and with his ceiling, that means one of the best in the country.”

Simply put, Kotelnicki’s been impressed by Drew’s focus this spring, his drive to improve, and his desire to reach that elite level. Although Kotelnicki’s high praise for Drew’s growth this spring is clear, what about the guys who’ll protect him and help him shine? The offensive line and wide receiver rooms hold key pieces to Drew’s success this season. While James Franklin has raised concerns about the wideouts, Kotelnicki’s take might be a bit different. However, the question is—will they step up or leave Drew to fight for himself?

Are Drew Allar’s weapons ready?

While James Franklin remains dissatisfied with the progress of his WR room, the position is still searching for a game-changer. However, Andy Kotelnicki sees things through a different lens. He’s optimistic about Drew Allar’s protection and the progress of his offensive line. When Adam asked how he evaluated the room, Andy responded, “We’re super pleased with how they’ve gone through the spring. I’ve worked hard to ensure we put them in positions to succeed.” He added, “You talk about Devonte Ross and Kyron Hudson—both have come in right away, lived up to the program’s standards, and even elevated them in some areas.” So, it seems Kotelnicki has a strong sense of confidence in his group heading into the season.

Simply put, Kotelnicki is clearly impressed with his team’s growth and preparation. “Our expectations for preparation and practice are high,” he said. He continued, “I’ve been very impressed with them. “Take Liam, for example—his consistency has stood out. I’m really looking forward to seeing him have the kind of year he’s been working toward. It’s all about his understanding of the game and the way he approaches it.” Andy’s confidence in his players is unmistakable, especially when it comes to Liam Clifford’s potential for a breakout season.

However, Penn State’s OC highlighted the younger group of players coming up. “There’s a new wave of guys stepping up,” he said, keeping their names under wraps for now. “What stands out is the amount of reps they’re getting, their daily growth, and their willingness to do whatever it takes to get on the field.” So, the OC is seeing a group that’s hungry to prove themselves, with each player eager to make an impact and help the team succeed. Honestly, their drive and commitment are exactly what the program needs.

Now, let’s see if Andy’s damage control can handle the heat or not.