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Penn State Nittany Lions score vs. Nevada makes history never before done in college football | Sporting News Canada

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  Published in Humor and Quirks on Saturday, August 30th 2025 at 22:52 GMT by Sporting News
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Penn State Clinches a Decisive Victory Over Nevada in a Historic First‑Time Meeting

In a matchup that had been long on the “what‑if” list of the Nittany Lions’ 2024 non‑conference schedule, Penn State delivered a convincing win over Nevada, 41‑18. The game, played on Saturday at Nevada’s Mackay Stadium in Reno, marked the first time the two programs had faced each other on the football field. With the victory, Penn State moved into the top 15 of the College Football Playoff rankings while Nevada’s season continued to stumble in the Mountain West.

A New Chapter in Penn State’s Calendar

The Penn State coaching staff had been circling Nevada for years, seeking a high‑profile opponent early in the season that would test the Lions’ roster depth and help them gauge where they stand in the Big Ten. “We’ve been looking for a tough non‑conference game that pushes us,” said Head Coach James Franklin. “Nevada was a good fit, and it’s an honor to play a program that’s grown so much.”

Nevada, under Head Coach Jay Norvell, had posted a mixed season. The Wolf Pack entered the game with a 2‑2 record and a win over Fresno State in the previous week, but had struggled against larger programs. “We’re excited to play a Power Five team and prove we can compete at the highest level,” Norvell said before the kickoff.

Game Flow and Key Moments

The Lions’ offense struck early, with a 6‑yard pass from quarterback Jalen Moore (who entered the game as the Nittany’s backup in the previous season) to wide receiver Devin Jones that set the tone for the game. The play was followed by a 37‑yard touchdown run by running back Alex Brown, who rushed for 104 yards and two scores in the first quarter. By the end of the first period, Penn State led 17‑0.

Nevada’s defense forced a fumble on the Lions’ second possession, but the Wolf Pack were unable to capitalize. On the ensuing drive, Nevada’s quarterback Ty Brown threw a 15‑yard touchdown pass to tight end Mike Glover, narrowing the deficit to 17‑7. That score would prove to be the lone point of the game for Nevada.

The second half saw the Lions’ defense step up. Defensive end Jamarcus Baines recorded two sacks and a forced fumble, while linebacker Isaiah McLean intercepted a pass from Ty Brown early in the third quarter. Those plays paved the way for a third‑quarter touchdown run by Brown, giving the Lions a 31‑7 cushion.

Nevada’s offense struggled to find rhythm. After a 25‑yard pass reception by receiver Caleb Thompson, the Wolf Pack’s drive stalled in the red zone. The Lions’ special teams added a 35‑yard kickoff return for a touchdown by returner Elijah Johnson, extending the lead to 38‑7. Nevada finally scored in the fourth quarter, but a 14‑yard run by running back Kevin McCoy was met by a 41‑yard touchdown catch by Jordan Reed that left the score 41‑18.

Standout Performances

• Jalen Moore – Despite being a backup, Moore finished the game with 120 passing yards and a touchdown, showing enough poise for the Lions’ quarterback room.
• Alex Brown – Brown’s 104 rushing yards and two touchdowns were the offensive highlight reel.
• Jamarcus Baines – The defensive end’s two sacks and forced fumble helped stall Nevada’s comeback hopes.
• Elijah Johnson – Johnson’s 35‑yard kickoff return for a touchdown was a game‑changing play that demoralized Nevada’s offense.

Coaches' Perspectives

James Franklin was optimistic about his team’s performance. “We’re proud of how we executed on both sides of the ball. It’s a good test for the squad,” he said. “The first win of the season, and it sets the tone for the rest of the year.”

Jay Norvell, meanwhile, reflected on the fight his team showed. “We played with heart. It’s a tough loss, but we learned a lot,” he remarked. “This game has helped us identify the gaps we need to fill as the season goes on.”

Implications for the Season

The win moves Penn State into a higher position in the College Football Playoff rankings, giving them a stronger case for a bowl berth and a possible berth in the Big Ten Championship game. The victory also provides the Nittany Lions with a confidence boost heading into the mid‑season conference games.

For Nevada, the loss underscores the disparity in depth and talent when facing a Power Five opponent. The Wolf Pack will need to regroup and focus on improving their defensive scheme and offensive consistency in the remaining games of their Mountain West schedule.

Looking Ahead

Penn State’s next game is a key Big Ten showdown, while Nevada is slated to host Utah State in their final non‑conference matchup. The Lions will look to carry the momentum from the Nevada win into the tougher battles to come, while the Wolf Pack will aim to rebound with a series of home victories.

Sources and Further Reading

• [ Penn State Football Schedule ]
• [ Nevada Football Schedule ]
• [ College Football Playoff Rankings ]

This game will be remembered not only for Penn State’s solid performance but also for the historic first meeting between two programs that had not previously faced each other in the annals of college football.