Grading Penn State's Pinstripe Bowl performance vs. Clemson

Key Highlights

• A masterful two-minute drill at the end of the first half let Penn State take a lead into halftime and Grunkemeyer completed some big passes that allowed his star receivers to do some damage after the run in the fourth quarter.
• There were a few moments Grunkemeyer would likely prefer to have back, but he toughed it out for an overall efficient outing to help Penn State come away victorious. Running Backs: B+Dec 27, 2025; Bronx, NY, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions running back Quinton Martin (25) carries the ball during the second half of the 2025 Pinstripe Bowl against the Clemson Tigers at Yankee Stadium.
• Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn ImagesDespite not having its top two running backs, Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen, the running game proved to still be valuable for Penn State's game plan.
• Quinton Martin ended the day with 101 rushing yards to lead the way, although Clemson did a decent job overall of not allowing the ground attack to do too much serious damage.
• There were some moments with short gains and stops behind the line of scrimmage, but the running game had some key moments as well to help get the win. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementReceivers and Tight Ends: ADec 27, 2025; Bronx, NY, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions wide receiver Trebor Pena (8) scores on a touchdown reception during the second half of the 2025 Pinstripe Bowl against the Clemson Tigers at Yankee Stadium.