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Penn State looks to carry renewed rushing attack into Washington matchup

Penn State looks to carry renewed rushing attack into Washington matchup

By: Landyn Empet | SportzWire | November 5, 2026 | Photo courtesy Jake Speicher

Penn State found a much-needed answer against Purdue. Now, the Nittany Lions head west with a chance to show they can build on it.

Coming off a 31-17 victory that ended a four-game losing streak, Penn State visits Washington on Saturday, Nov. 7. The Nittany Lions enter at 4-4 overall and 1-4 in Big Ten play after earning their first conference win under head coach Matt Campbell.

The biggest reason for that breakthrough came on the ground.

Penn State rushed for 267 yards and three touchdowns against Purdue while holding the Boilermakers to just 43 rushing yards. That advantage gave the Nittany Lions a way to control the game while playing without two of their top receivers because of injuries.

For an offense trying to find consistency, that performance offers something to build around. A productive running game can ease the pressure on the passing attack, create more manageable third downs and give Penn State greater flexibility in key situations.

That flexibility showed up in Campbell’s fourth-down decisions against Purdue.

Speaking at his Tuesday news conference, Campbell explained that his approach depended on the circumstances. Early in a close game, success running the ball helped give him confidence to go for it. Later, with a two-score lead and the defense playing well, protecting that advantage carried more weight.

“I think all of it is truly feel,” Campbell said.

Those decisions illustrate why the rushing performance matters beyond the final yardage total. When Penn State can consistently gain ground, it gives Campbell more options for keeping a possession alive.

Washington will test whether the Nittany Lions can repeat that success.

Campbell pointed to the Huskies’ physical defensive front and emphasized the challenge their own rushing attack presents, including the threat of quarterback runs and multiple running backs. Continuing to stop the run remains a priority as Penn State develops its identity on both sides of the ball.

The trip also brings a different setting. After finding a breakthrough at Beaver Stadium, Penn State must carry that performance into Husky Stadium and handle a cross-country road game.

One win provides relief after a difficult stretch. Following it with another would give Penn State stronger evidence that the progress against Purdue can last.

For the Nittany Lions, Saturday’s opportunity starts with repeating the basics that helped them get back in the win column: establish the run, limit Washington’s ground game and make the most of important possessions.

Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET Saturday on FS1.