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Will Penn State back-up QB Ethan Grunkemeyer have a Pribula-like package of plays in the Fiesta Bowl?

Greg Pickelby:Greg Pickel•12/29/24•

GregPickel

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Quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer (Credit: Frank Hyatt | Blue White Illustrated)

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Was it gamesmanship or the truth? That is the question that will be answered Tuesday about Penn State head coach James Franklin’s comments on Sunday at Fiesta Bowl media day regarding the plan for backup quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer in the No. 6 Nittany Lions’ College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup with No. 3 Boise State.

The freshman was thrust into the backup role behind starter Drew Allar earlier this month after Beau Pribula hit the transfer portal before round one of the CFP and ended up at Missouri last week. Against SMU, Penn State did not have a ‘Grunkemeyer package’ of plays similar to the ‘Pribula package’ that often saw him be on the field with Allar at the same time to take a snap and either run or hand it off. But, that could change at State Farm Stadium.

“We tried to get him in that game [against SMU] as early as possible because we knew it would be important moving forward,” Franklin said. “We’ll have some packages for him in this game, as well, because I think it’s important that we get them in the game.

“He’s taking some tremendous strides, and he’s a very, very talented football player. He’s got a bright future, and obviously, under the circumstances, his journey has changed, and he’s embraced that journey, and I know our team has a ton of confidence in him.”

Grunkemeyer reflects on his time so far at Penn State

Members of the Class of 2024 were available at media day here on Sunday. It marked Grunkemeyer’s first time speaking with reporters both since he arrived in State College and obviously also since he moved into his new role. The Ohio native appreciates the trust his teammates and coaches have in him. He is embracing the big opportunity on the CFP stage.

“Something Coach Franklin has always talked about since I’ve since I’ve gotten here is just preparing like I’m the starter. That’s what I’ve been trying to do all year,” Grunkemeyer said. “So, when the news broke, I felt comfortable taking that step. That’s kind of what I’ve been trying to do all year. The confidence that he has in all the guys to do that just kind of built that confidence in me. So, there were no nerves or anything like that. I felt super comfortable.

“Just kind of being always ready for when your number is called, that’s the biggest thing. Whether that’s at the beginning of the year, if your number was called, or later in the year, just always being ready for that situation.”

What was the SMU experience like?

Against the Mustangs, Grunkemeyer took 11 snaps, all after the outcome had already been decided. His first collegiate throw ended with an interception. But, he ultimately finished with a nine-yard completion on a 1 of 2 passing day. Most of his work was of the hand-off variety to run out the clock.

“It was awesome,” Grunkemeyer said. “First snaps on the field, [that’s] super exciting. When the number was called, I was just excited. That’s really the only way I could put it. It just felt surreal.”

Time will tell if Penn State will have an expanded role for him on Tuesday or not. But, it’s fair to say that the freshman will be ready for whatever is thrown his way.

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