On Saturday, April 26, Penn State will hold its annual Blue-White football game at Beaver Stadium, albeit with several notable modifications. Most significantly, the game will not be televised. This means Penn State football fans who want a spring glimpse of the Nittany Lions will need to attend in person.

Spring Games Being Canceled Across College Football — But Not at Penn State

Across college football, many programs are canceling their spring games due to various factors such as injury risks, the increased number of players entering the transfer portal, roster tampering, the overall effectiveness of spring games, calendar constraints, and more. Schools that have canceled their spring games include Arizona, BYU, Florida State, Iowa, Michigan State, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio State, Texas, and USC.

However, Penn State is one of the few schools moving forward with its spring game, despite construction and logistical challenges. The Blue-White Game is more than just football in State College—it’s an offseason reunion for the program and its fans. The athletic department typically holds events and fundraisers around the game, making it an annual economic boost for the area.

Although the game will still take place in April, it will be shorter than usual due to the ongoing $700 million renovation of Beaver Stadium. While other schools, like Florida State, have paused spring games due to construction, Penn State is pushing through. The decision not to televise the game, which is usually aired on the Big Ten Network, is also due in part to construction at the stadium.

A New Look for the Blue-White Game

This year’s Blue-White Game will feel different. In addition to not being televised, the game will be shorter, with fewer plays, shortened quarters, and possibly no halftime. These changes are designed to limit what the public can see and manage logistical challenges brought on by stadium renovations.

How the Game Will Work in a Renovated Beaver Stadium

Beaver Stadium is currently undergoing a massive $700 million renovation, but it will still operate for the Blue-White Game at the end of April. Due to the construction on the west side of the stadium, seating will only be available in the north, south, and east sections. Only two gates—Gate A and Gate E, both on the east side—will be open for entry, so fans should expect long lines and delays when arriving at the stadium.

Linebacker Questions Heading into the Game

One major storyline heading into the Blue-White Game is the linebacker position. The team lost one of its vocal leaders, Kobe King, who declared for the 2025 NFL Draft. His absence leaves a significant void in the center of the defense. With new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles taking over, Penn State will be looking to Dom DeLuca and Tony Rojas to step up. Strengthening the linebacker room will be critical as the team aims to return to College Football Playoff contention.

Drew Allah’s Development on Display

Quarterback Drew Allar arrived at Penn State three years ago as a highly touted recruit from Ohio, known for his physical size and raw arm talent. Since then, Allar has developed significantly. Last season, he improved his passing yards from 2,631 to 3,327, raised his completion percentage from 59.9% to 65.5%, and increased his rushing yards from 210 to 302. Fans will have a chance to see how much more he has progressed during the Blue-White Game.

What to Expect

The Blue-White Game is a big deal at Penn State, serving as both a preview of the upcoming season and the conclusion of spring practice. This year’s game will look different—it won’t be televised, will be shorter than usual, and will be held in a partially active construction site. Despite these changes, the game remains free and will include a mix of live and non-contact periods to help avoid injuries, especially for experienced players.

This game will also serve as the debut for defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, the highest-paid assistant coach in college football history, who will call plays from the Beaver Stadium sidelines for the first time. Although this year’s event may feel unusual, the tradition and energy surrounding Penn State football will still be very much alive.

Kickoff for the Blue-White Game is scheduled for 2:00 PM on Saturday, April 26, at Beaver Stadium in State College, PA.