Penn State’s White Out Game Makes Its Return
On Saturday, a crowd of over 109,000 gathered in Beaver Stadium for one of America’s most famous sporting events.
For the first time since 2019, Penn State held its annual White Out game against then-No. 22 ranked Auburn. The event was put on pause last season due to NCAA COVID-19 stadium restrictions.
It was the first time since 2003 that the Nittany Lions were left without a White Out, a year before its creation. Fast forward nearly two decades, and Happy Valley’s most anticipated tradition is back and better than ever.
It was the first White Out for many Penn State students, including freshman Rory O’Donnell.
“Coming from a small town, the atmosphere is like nothing I’ve ever seen before,” O’Donnell said.
The day was full of festivities at Penn State, beginning with ESPN’s College GameDay, a weekly show that previews college football games across the nation. People were seen gathering on the Old Main lawn waiting for the crew as early as 11 p.m. the night before the game.
One member of this dedicated crowd was Penn State junior Tomas Basilios, who brought snacks and a blanket with him for the long morning ahead.
“I haven’t slept in over a day,” Basilios said. “I am having the time of my life.”
New York Giants’ running back and former Penn State star Saquon Barkley made a guest appearance on the show, and was also seen with fans at tailgates throughout the day.
After Penn State’s dramatic 28-20 victory, many fans opted to celebrate downtown at their favorite restaurants.
“I tried to get food from Yallah Taco, and it took me an hour and a half,” O’Donnell said.
Large events like the White Out help to create much-needed revenue for many small businesses, as they still attempt to recover from the economic repercussions of the pandemic. It’s great to see the downtown area of State College back in action.
In addition, it’s also great to see the students, alumni and fans of Penn State football gather in Beaver Stadium once again.
In the words of singer Neil Diamond, “good times never seemed so good.”
Grant Sheets is a first-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email gcs5231@psu.edu.
