The Penn State vs Clemson matchup in the Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl delivered a thrilling college football showdown that fans will remember, featuring standout performances, exciting plays, and significant storylines for both Penn State football and Clemson Tigers football. Here’s everything you need to know about this Penn State game, including scores, key moments, where to watch, predictions, and player highlights.
Penn State vs Clemson: Game Summary & Final Score
In the highly anticipated Clemson vs Penn State bowl game played on December 27, 2025, the Penn State Nittany Lions defeated the Clemson Tigers with a final score of 22–10 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York in the Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl.
The Penn State score came from multiple scoring drives capped by impressive offensive plays, while Clemson’s lone touchdown fell short of turning the momentum their way.
This victory boosts PSU football to a 7–6 season finish, ending with a strong performance under interim coach Terry Smith.
Where Was the Pinstripe Bowl Played?
The showdown took place at Yankee Stadium, an iconic venue known more for baseball but also hosting this mid-December college football spectacle.
Where to watch Penn State Nittany Lions football vs Clemson Tigers football:
-
TV Channel: ABC
-
Live Stream: Available via participating streaming services offering ABC coverage.
Key Performances & Player Highlights
-
Ethan Grunkemeyer delivered a career day with 262 passing yards and two fourth-quarter touchdowns, including a 73-yard touchdown to Trebor Peña, helping seal the win for Penn State.
-
Trebor Peña led the receivers with 100 yards, while Grunkemeyer’s leadership proved instrumental in closing out the game.
-
Quinton Martin stepped up in the run game, breaking 100 rushing yards in the absence of other starters like Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton.
-
Clemson’s offense, led by quarterback Cade Klubnik, struggled to find rhythm against a tenacious Penn State defense.
Coaching & Team Notes
-
Penn State coach Terry Smith, serving as Penn State interim coach, led the team to a strong finish, going 4–0 over the final stretch of the season and earning a bowl victory.
-
Moving forward, Matt Campbell is set to take over as Penn State head coach, ushering in a new era for Penn State football after a turbulent season that included coaching changes.
-
Clemson football continued under head coach Dabo Swinney, but the Tigers couldn’t overcome mistakes and Penn State’s strong finish.
Penn State vs Clemson Prediction & Insights
Before the game, betting odds slightly favored Clemson vs Penn State due to season trends, but many analysts saw this as a close matchup with potential for an upset.
With both squads ending the year at 7–6, this Penn State Clemson prediction ultimately favored the gritty Lions, and they delivered.
Season Context & What It Means
The Penn State game marked a meaningful finish to a season that saw ups and downs, including mid-season struggles and staff changes. The Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl win provides momentum and confidence heading into the offseason with a full coaching staff in place.
For Clemson vs Penn State, this game was an opportunity to cap off a challenging year. While Clemson didn’t come out on top, their presence in a memorable bowl at Yankee Stadium highlighted their continued relevance in the college football landscape.
Final Thoughts
The Penn State vs Clemson matchup in the Pinstripe Bowl wasn’t just another postseason game — it was a defining end to the Penn State football season, showcasing future stars like Grunkemeyer, impactful plays from underclassmen, and a glimpse of what’s to come under new leadership.
Whether you’re tracking PSU football, analyzing clemson penn state predictions, or reviewing where to watch the next big Penn State game, this showdown at Yankee Stadium cemented its place in both schools’ 2025 narratives.
Leave a Reply