Well, this wasn’t the ending Penn State fans had in mind. The Nittany Lions, under the leadership of head coach Cael Sanderson, put up a solid fight at the 2025 Southern Scuffle. Freshmen like Zack Ryder, Connor Mirasola, and Cole Mirasola showed their potential, each snagging individual titles and helping the team put on an impressive showing. But when the dust settled, it wasn’t enough. Penn State ended up tied for second with Oklahoma at 126.5 points, while Army West Point stole the show, making history by winning their first-ever team title with 132.5 points.

For a program that’s used to being on top, this one stings a bit. Sure, the young guys showed serious potential, but finishing behind Army—a team Penn State usually dominates isn’t exactly what fans expected. Now, all eyes are on the Big Ten opener against Michigan State. Can Penn State bounce back and remind everyone why they’re the powerhouse we know them to be? Absolutely! Here’s the silver lining: Penn State still has everything it takes to dominate.

Road to redemption

The Southern Scuffle wasn’t exactly the victory Penn State fans were hoping for. But there are several reasons why the Nittany Lions can still make a powerful comeback this season.

First, their freshmen came through in a big way, with Zack Ryder, Connor Mirasola & Cole Mirasola all winners. Ryder went 5-0 this past weekend and had a win over a ranked wrestler, while Mirasola went undefeated at 197 pounds this season. These young wrestlers are already showing their worth at the top level of wrestling.The team also has a strength that cannot be overlooked, mainly in terms of depth. Cael Nasdeo claims gold at the Edinboro Open with a 3-0 win and it is athletes like these who show the potential is there. Connor Pierce, who finished second at 149 pounds, unseating a ranked competitor in the semis, proves that Penn State has formidable challengers in multiple weight classes. Wrestlers like Kurt McHenry are also active in the sport who recently took fifth place in the competition in the 125 pounds category. Lastly, there is one more thing to reassure fans.The game is a perfect shot at redemption in the Big Ten opener against Michigan State. The Big Ten is going to be tough, but thanks to their talent and the hard work, the Nittany Lions could well have a shot at the title. That means that they are well-positioned to mount a real challenge for the league leaders with many seasons still to be played. But is this the only reason to win? Not at all!

The secret to Penn State Wrestling’s Success

Right now, Penn State wrestling has been doing great, and much credit has to go to their coach, Cael Sanderson. Since the year 2009, he has transformed the program into a total sporting goliath that has won 11 national championships in total. What makes him so great, isn’t his record. It’s his subdued and almost Zen-like approach to coaching. He ensured that the welfare of his athletes was met and that they enjoyed every moment in practice and tournaments, not just wrestlers. He applies himself as more than just a trainer. He and the boys talk about their dreams, and beyond all he provides meaningful counsel.

Penn State is always near the top of the rankings for college wrestling, all thanks to Sanderson as he has made the team nearly unbeatable. This is something that he is very good at, he ensures that his athletes train hard without losing the fun factor. And honestly, the results speak for themselves: untouched wins, performance records, and a history that is very difficult to emulate. It is obvious that Sanderson, by producing equal portion to mental training, has turned Penn State University into a pretty strong wrestling team and will be the same in time to come.