Penn State’s wrestling dynasty rolls on, and their latest triumph proves why they’re the team to beat. With a flawless record this season, the Nittany Lions faced a fierce challenge on the road against Nebraska. But despite an impressive victory, what makes this win so special? Well, there are many things.
The 31-7 win of Penn State clearly states that it was more than a win against Nebraska. The Nittany Lions have now extended their unbeaten streak, dominating every dual this season with only a handful of losses, showing how deep their roster is. With their winning streak now dating back to 2020, it’s pretty obvious that Penn State is playing in a league of its own. They have secured 13 national championships and many individual titles over the years.
Mitchell Mesenbrink and Carter Starocci were like unstoppable forces out there, crushing their matches with some seriously dominant wins. Mesenbrink delivered a commanding 20-3 tech fall at 165 lbs, showcasing his technical prowess over Bubba Wilson, while Starocci continued to prove why he’s one of the best in the country at 184 lbs. Starocci dominated his opponent with his skills. The way both of them controlled their matches from beginning to end played a huge role in Penn State’s win.
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A recent tweet by Justin Basch on X perfectly captured the magnitude of Penn State’s dominant victory. “Messenbrink closes out the dual with a 20-3 tech over Bubba Wilson as #1 Penn State beats #6 Nebraska 31-7—their 64th straight Dual Meet W. Kasak with an also impressive 9-3 win over #5 Antrell Taylor before that.” Kasak’s 9-3 win against Antrell Taylor was a big moment, showing everyone he’s got the grit. And with both Mesenbrink and Kasak rising to the occasion in key moments, it shows the strength and depth of the team’s lineup, helping keep their unbeaten streak alive.
Messenbrink closes out the dual with a 20-3 tech over Bubba Wilson as #1 Penn State beats #6 Nebraska 31-7 – their 64th straight Dual Meet W. Kasak with an also impressive 9-3 win over #5 Antrell Taylor before that. pic.twitter.com/Zufc8ORItn
— Justin Basch (@JustinJBasch) January 18, 2025
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In addition, Greg Kerkvliet and Josh Barr didn’t miss a beat, adding to the team’s dominant performance. Kerkvliet, at 285 lbs, was just a powerhouse with a score of 20-2, as he owned his opponent on the mat. Barr, wrestling at 197 lbs, kept his cool and wrestled smart, adding another win for Penn State. Together, they reminded everyone just how deep and talented this team is across the board.
Starocci, Barr, and Sanderson lead Penn State wrestling’s dominance
Carter Starocci and Josh Barr have long been integral to Penn State wrestling’s success. And both of them have shown time and again they’re the real deal on the mat, snagging top rankings and becoming the kind of athletes you can count on for the team. Starocci, with all his championship experience, is all about precision and never giving up, while Barr, even though he’s just a freshman, has shown he’s got what it takes when the pressure’s on.
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Penn State’s wrestling crew keeps on rolling, holding down their spot in the wrestling world. Coach Cael Sanderson’s strategy has been the backbone keeping this team on track and consistent. Sanderson stated, “It’s not about the numbers; it’s about the journey and the process.” Sanderson’s philosophy is that if you’ve got tough athletes, winning ends up being just part of the deal. He’s making sure that his athletes are leaders ready to face any challenge thrown at them.
The way the team dominated on the mat reflects the result of Coach Sanderson’s guidance. Every win proves that Penn State’s legacy isn’t just about skill. As Penn State continues to win, the question is: who is gonna step up and break their unbeaten streak?
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Can anyone dethrone Penn State's wrestling juggernaut, or are they simply unbeatable this season?
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Can anyone dethrone Penn State's wrestling juggernaut, or are they simply unbeatable this season?
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