Allen Robinson’s stunning displays in recent weeks have Penn State fans wondering where he ranks among the best receivers in program history. A look back at the Nittany Lions’ first meeting with Minnesota—20 years ago this fall—reminds us that in any such conversation, Bobby Engram’s name must be prominently included. Continue reading
Tag Archives: John Black
From the Archives: Illinois
“Unquestionably it ranks with the greatest gridiron triumphs in Penn State’s proud football history.” Continue reading
From The Archives: Michigan
“All of the omens were ominous.”
So began John Black ’62 five years ago, in The Football Letter following Michigan’s 2008 visit to Beaver Stadium. Continue reading
From the Archives: Indiana
Fact: Penn State has never lost to Indiana.
Another fact: The series is closer than it looks. Continue reading
Happy Birthday, Fran
I don’t really know Fran Fisher. But like most long-time Nittany Lion fans, I feel like I know Fran Fisher.
The voice of Penn State football for the better part of Joe Paterno’s tenure, Fran turned 90 on Monday. Continue reading
From the Archives: UCF
With Christian Hackenberg breaking freshman passing records and making most of the headlines as Penn State prepares to face Central Florida, we look back at the Nittany Lions’ two previous meetings with UCF—and at the guy whose rookie QB record Hackenberg recently broke.
John Black: What to Watch
Last Saturday at MetLife Stadium, John Black ’62 settled into the press box for the start of his 38th season in charge of The Football Letter. With the season opener in the books, we asked John about his expectations for the rest of the season, and for the questions he’s eager to see answered. He shares his thoughts and insights below. Enjoy—and hope to see you Saturday at Beaver Stadium.
From the Archives: Syracuse
A scoreless tie in 1922 marked the first of 70 gridiron meetings between Penn State and Syracuse—only the Pitt Panthers have lined up opposite the Nittany Lions more often. The 71st meeting between the old foes also marks the start of the 2013 season—and gives us a welcome excuse to dig through the Football Letter archives.
Welcome to the Blog!
For more than 75 years, Penn Staters have relied on The Football Letter for one-of-a-kind perspective on Nittany Lion football. Now, the Alumni Association is proud to introduce The Football Letter Blog, a new and unique destination for year-round coverage of Penn State football.







