Considering that Penn State’s Abdul Carter has 63 tackles, 11 sacks and 2 forced fumbles so far this season, the Notre Dame football team is very curious as to whether the defensive end will be available for the Orange Bowl. On the surface, the Nittany Lions have said that yes, he will be ready.
However, if Carter plays, it feels like he’s going to be limited at the very least.
Earlier this week, PSU head coach James Franklin addressed whether Carter would play against the Notre Dame football team and his comments came off as all sunshine and rainbows. "At this point, I don't think there's anything stopping him from playing, but it's going to come down to, how is he able to play?" Franklin told reporters. "We'll see. But his mentality is great. He's excited about this week, but it's too early to say at this stage."
Notre Dame football fans should assume Carter is out until told otherwise
At issue is that Carter suffered an arm or shoulder injury in the Nittany Lions victory over Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl. He left early and didn’t return in the 31-14 game. That despite the game being much closer than the score indicated until late in the contest.
On Sunday, video of Penn State’s practice included Nittany Lion defensive linemen going through wrapup drills. It was pointed out that Carter didn’t take part.
Penn State's defensive ends going through wrap-up drills.
— Zach Seyko (@zach_seyko) January 5, 2025
No sign of Abdul Carter. pic.twitter.com/wM2h0fc9bu
At the moment, it seems as if the call whether Abdul Carter plays against the Notre Dame football team will come down to Thursday night. But talk that the defensive line is perfectly fine an ready to go, seems to be more smoke and mirrors than factual statements.