Penn State Nittany Lions College Football Pregame Quote, 12/29/2024

Q. Such a dominant effort against SMU. You said you think you’re the best backfield in the country. How has this confidence translated coming into Boise State? What do you see in their defense that makes you think you’re going to run over them?

NICHOLAS SINGLETON: They have a fast defense. I just feel like we have a good plan on offense. We have to have a big game for us to come out on top. So, we’re taking care of our bodies. We’re in the film room and all that. I feel confident in the offense.

Q. Especially when the offense had a slow start against SMU, what’s the mindset of you guys in the back? When Drew Allar is faltering a little bit, how do you make an impact in that game like that?

NICHOLAS SINGLETON: We just have to keep our head down, working. We’ve got to pick it up, with we run, pass.

Q. It’s been a bit chaotic, the last-minute championship berth. Quick turnaround; now you’re here in the Fiesta Bowl. Drew Allar said he’s not been fazed. How have you guys stayed so sane with all the chaos?

NICHOLAS SINGLETON: We just stay inside, not listening to outside noise. Worrying about us and just taking it one day at a time. Stuff we have to figure out.

Q. What do you think about the most underrated quality is of Drew [Allar] as a quarterback? Seems like he gets quite a bunch of criticism.

NICHOLAS SINGLETON: I just say that he makes plays extend. If nothing is there, he’s not afraid to go running or break the pocket and find somebody open.

Q. How much do you pay attention to running backs? Particularly the one from Boise State [Ashton Jeanty]?

NICHOLAS SINGLETON: Little bit, but not much. I’m just worried about this team, about myself. But I see it around, media and all that.

Q. You both play the same position. Running backs haven’t gotten a lot of credit the last few years. He found a way to New York. Is there some common ground there at all where you respect his game because of that alone?

NICHOLAS SINGLETON: I definitely respect his game. You look at the yards after contact, just crazy. Over 1,000 yards. He’s hard to bring down. He’s a tough running back, he’s fast, physical. Great balance. Just to watch him play ‚Äì

Q. What stands out to you about Boise’s defense?

NICHOLAS SINGLETON: Just the type of speed they have, really fast players. They don’t give up. They can play four quarters. They’re well coached, disciplined.

Q. Do you think it’s an advantage or disadvantage playing a game in the College Football Playoff as opposed to getting the bye? It’s such a physical game, I almost assume not. But if you look at the NCAA basketball tournament, it’s almost the team that gets in the first four that somehow goes on a run. Do you feel like maybe the nerves are out? Or do you feel football is different maybe?

NICHOLAS SINGLETON: There’s both advantages and disadvantages. Advantage, obviously they have two or three weeks off to take care of their bodies, while we played last week. But at the same time, it’s crazy, you rest three weeks, then you got to get back, while we played last week.

We’re in a rhythm, ready to play and all that. There’s both advantages and disadvantages, too, just depends on who’s going to come out and play.

Q. You’re Pennsylvania born and bred. Can you talk about the fan base. It felt like a home game in Indianapolis. I feel a feeling it’s going to feel the same way here. Tell us about your fans.

NICHOLAS SINGLETON: The fans are great. We travel a lot. We can’t wait to see them.