James Franklin Shares Key Update on Abdul Carter Before Notre Dame Matchup
The Penn State Nittany Lions are one of four teams remaining in the 2024-25 College Football Playoff following this past week’s dominant Fiesta Bowl victory over the Boise State Broncos.
Now, James Franklin and the No. 6 seed Nittany Lions are heading into an Orange Bowl matchup against the No. 7 seed Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
On Saturday, Franklin took the podium for his first game-week press conference at Hard Rock Stadium.
The longtime Penn State head coach covered a variety of topics, including the status of star linebacker Abdul Carter.
Carter suffered a left arm injury during the first quarter of Penn State’s Fiesta Bowl win over Boise State. The junior edge rusher was unable to return as the Nittany Lions went on to notch a 31-14 final score.
Franklin shared an optimistic outlook on Carter’s status heading into Thursday’s College Football Playoff semifinal matchup against Notre Dame.
“I don’t think there’s anything that is stopping him from playing,” Franklin said. “… His mentality is great. Got a big smile on his face. I think he’s excited about this week, but it’s too early to say at this stage.”
Carter leads the Big Ten with 22 tackles for loss and 11.0 sacks through 15 games appearances this season. The third-year Penn State pass rusher is projected as a top-10 prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Dec 31, 2024; Glendale, AZ, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive end Abdul Carter (11) reacts with the trophy after the game against the Boise State Broncos in the Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Penn State will kickoff against Notre Dame at 7:30 p.m. EST on Thursday night.
