Penn State’s approach with Quinton Martin Jr. and Corey Smith will be different in 2025.
Two intriguing young running backs, Martin and Smith should see their roles expand. But they are clearly behind standouts Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen, returning 1,000-yard rushers who are in their final collegiate seasons.
In 2025, Penn State football is looking to continue its upward trajectory under head coach James Franklin, and much of the success will hinge on key players and position groups that have the potential to make a big impact. Among those, running backs Quinton Martin and Corey Smith are at the forefront, as the Nittany Lions look to establish depth and consistency in their backfield. As Franklin prepares for the upcoming season, he’s focused on developing these players and ensuring the team has the necessary depth to contend with the rigors of Big Ten football.
Quinton Martin: A Rising Star
Quinton Martin is one of the most highly anticipated players in Penn State’s 2025 class. As a top-tier recruit, Martin has the skill set that can make him an immediate contributor. Standing at 6’2” and weighing around 210 pounds, he possesses a rare combination of size, speed, and agility that makes him a matchup nightmare for defenders. His ability to run between the tackles, as well as his explosiveness on outside runs, gives the Penn State coaching staff a lot to work with.
Franklin has made it clear that Martin will play a significant role in the offense moving forward. His versatility allows the coaching staff to experiment with different offensive schemes, making him a key part of their plans. Whether used in traditional running back sets or as a weapon in the passing game, Martin has the tools to contribute from day one.
“Quinton has all the physical tools to be a dynamic player for us,” Franklin said. “He’s a guy we’re really excited about, and we’re going to give him every opportunity to succeed.”
In 2025, Franklin will likely continue to build a system around Martin’s talents, utilizing his skill set to open up options both in the backfield and as a receiving threat. The hope is that Martin will not only be a primary ball carrier but also a player who can stretch the field and provide big-play potential in a variety of ways.
Corey Smith: A Dependable Veteran
While Martin may be the future, Corey Smith will be looked to as one of the veterans in the running back room. Smith has shown flashes of his potential during his time at Penn State, and heading into 2025, he’s primed to take on a more prominent role. Standing at 5’11” and weighing 210 pounds, Smith brings a good blend of power and agility. He’s a physical runner with good vision and the ability to break tackles, making him a valuable asset in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
For Franklin, having a seasoned back like Smith will help balance the offense and give Martin the necessary time to develop into a true workhorse back. Smith’s ability to handle a significant load in the running game will also allow Penn State to manage Martin’s reps, preventing him from burning out too quickly and ensuring that the offense remains versatile and unpredictable.
“Corey has been a steady presence for us,” Franklin explained. “He’s a guy who knows what to expect and can handle both the physical and mental demands of the position. We need him to be a leader in that room, and we’re confident in what he can bring.”
Running Back Depth: A Critical Focus for 2025
One of the key elements Franklin will be focused on in 2025 is creating solid depth at the running back position. While Martin and Smith may be the headline players, Penn State’s success depends on the overall depth at the position. Injuries, fatigue, and the physical nature of the Big Ten season mean that having multiple capable running backs is critical. Depth can make the difference between a strong season and a disappointing one, especially as teams grind through a tough conference schedule.
Penn State has several younger players who could step into rotational roles, and the competition for playing time will be intense throughout spring practice and fall camp. The staff will be looking for backs who can complement Martin and Smith, whether as change-of-pace runners or special teams contributors.
As for the future, Franklin is also working to continue recruiting talented players at the position, building a pipeline of talent that ensures the team won’t be left thin in case of injuries or other setbacks. This will help the Nittany Lions remain competitive not only in 2025 but for years to come.
Ultimately, the 2025 season for Penn State will hinge on the development of Martin and Smith, but the ability to create depth at running back could be the deciding factor in how far the Nittany Lions can go. Franklin’s emphasis on balance and flexibility in the offense will rely heavily on how well this position group can perform and stay healthy throughout the season.