Penn State Backup QB Beau Pribula Enters Transfer Portal, Skipping College Football Playoff
In a move that has sent shockwaves through Happy Valley, Penn State backup quarterback Beau Pribula has announced his decision to enter the transfer portal, leaving the team just days before the College Football Playoff. The redshirt sophomore cited the “overlapping CFB playoff and transfer portal timeline” as the reason for his departure, a decision that has sparked plenty of conversation among fans and analysts alike.
Pribula, a native of York, Pennsylvania, has been a crucial piece of Penn State’s offense this season, even while playing behind starting quarterback Drew Allar. Known for his dual-threat abilities, Pribula tied for second on the team in rushing touchdowns with six and ranked third in both carries (38) and rushing yards (242). His versatility provided first-year offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki with a dynamic change-of-pace option at quarterback, making his absence a significant loss for the Nittany Lions as they prepare for their CFP matchup.
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 206 pounds, Pribula also showed promise as a passer. He completed 26 of 35 passes for 275 yards, throwing five touchdowns against just one interception. His most notable performance came on October 26 in a win against Wisconsin, where he stepped in for an injured Allar during the second half. In that game, Pribula completed 11 of 13 passes for 98 yards and a touchdown while adding 28 rushing yards, showcasing his ability to lead the offense under pressure.
In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, Pribula explained the difficult decision he faced. “The current NCAA post-season model creates a challenge for student-athletes,” he wrote. “The overlapping CFB playoff & transfer portal timeline has forced me into an impossible decision. After speaking at length with my family and coaches, it is with a heavy heart that I announce my intentions to enter the transfer portal and depart from the team to explore opportunities elsewhere.”
What’s Next for Penn State?
Penn State is set to host SMU on December 21 in a first-round CFP game at Beaver Stadium. With Pribula’s departure, the Nittany Lions will have to rely on true freshman Ethan Grunkemeyer as the backup to Allar. Grunkemeyer, who was ESPN’s No. 76 recruit in the 2024 class, now finds himself thrust into a critical role as Penn State chases a national championship.
Pribula’s decision comes at a time when the transfer portal is buzzing with activity. Since officially opening on Monday, the portal has seen a flurry of quarterback movement as players look to secure their futures for the 2025 season. Interestingly, SMU’s backup quarterback Preston Stone also entered the portal last week but has chosen to remain with the Mustangs through their CFP run. This contrast in decisions highlights the unique challenges players face during this overlapping timeline.
Key Takeaways
- Beau Pribula tied for second on Penn State in rushing touchdowns (6) and was third in carries (38) and rushing yards (242).
- He completed 26 of 35 passes for 275 yards, with five touchdowns and one interception this season.
- True freshman Ethan Grunkemeyer will now serve as Drew Allar’s backup for the CFP.
- Penn State will face SMU in a first-round CFP game on December 21 at Beaver Stadium.
Pribula’s departure has sparked a larger conversation about the NCAA’s postseason model and the challenges it creates for student-athletes. The overlap between the College Football Playoff and the transfer portal has forced players like Pribula to make tough decisions, often having to choose between their current team and their future opportunities. For Penn State, the focus now shifts to preparing for SMU and ensuring that Allar and the rest of the offense are ready to perform at their best without their dynamic backup quarterback.
As the transfer portal continues to reshape the college football landscape, Pribula’s next destination will undoubtedly be a storyline to watch. For now, though, Penn State fans will have to adjust to life without one of their most versatile offensive weapons as the team embarks on its CFP journey.
Originally Written by: Adam Rittenberg
