Penn State’s Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton left an indelible mark on the program during their final game at Beaver Stadium. In a commanding 37-10 victory against Nebraska, both players set records that solidified their places in Nittany Lions history. Allen became the school’s all-time leading rusher, while Singleton tied two career touchdown records, showcasing their extraordinary talent and unbreakable bond.
The duo arrived at Penn State in 2022 and quickly established a close friendship. They have been roommates, teammates, and workout partners, spending countless hours together both on and off the field. Their connection has not only fostered personal growth but has also contributed to their impressive performances throughout their college careers.
In the game against Nebraska, Allen rushed for 160 yards on 25 carries, scoring two touchdowns. He broke the school’s rushing record with a decisive 3-yard run early in the fourth quarter, bringing his career total to 3,954 yards. “It’s special because it went back to all the winter workouts and things like that,” Allen said. “Pushing each other and feeding off each other. It just means a lot. He’s my brother, and we are just tight.”
Singleton also made significant contributions, accumulating 95 all-purpose yards, including 44 yards on seven carries and 51 yards on three receptions. He now has 5,403 total yards, just 135 yards shy of Saquon Barkley’s school record. Singleton has tied Barkley’s mark of 41 rushing touchdowns and 53 total touchdowns overall. “Tonight felt good,” Singleton reflected. “I scored two touchdowns and tied Saquon Barkley’s records. My boy Fat (Allen) broke the all-time rushing record. It just felt good.”
The friendship between Allen and Singleton has been characterized by mutual support and respect. Singleton has embraced a secondary role without complaints, even after Terry Smith was appointed interim head coach on October 12, 2023. “There’s no downside to their friendship,” Singleton noted. “There’s no jealousy or anything like that. We’re happy for each other.”
Their shared journey began during spring practice in 2022, where they introduced a level of physicality and toughness that the team had previously lacked. Both players now join an elite group of only nine Penn State running backs to achieve two 1,000-yard seasons, a prestigious list that includes legends like Barkley, Evan Royster, Ki-Jana Carter, and John Cappelletti.
Looking ahead, Singleton is poised to further etch his name in the record books. If he rushes for just 24 yards in the upcoming game against Rutgers, he will finish his career as fourth on the all-time rushing list, alongside Allen. “I was confident four years ago, but we had to put the work in,” Singleton said. “It’s unreal. I haven’t taken a moment to think about it. It’s been so fast.”
After the game, emotions ran high as Singleton was one of the first to congratulate Allen on his record-breaking achievement. “I’m still just trying to wrap my head around it,” Allen expressed. “Unfortunately, the season hasn’t gone as planned. If we could have been winning the whole season and I didn’t get the record, I’d rather do that. I’m just glad I got an opportunity to do this. I’m just grateful for my team.”
Their performance against Nebraska provided a bright spot in what has been a challenging season for Penn State, which started with high expectations but has faced significant disappointments. The coaching changes and struggles on the field have not dimmed the resolve of Allen and Singleton, who continue to inspire their teammates and fans. “Just another unbelievable effort by the tandem,” Smith said. “They’re unbelievable. They’re amazing people. They’re unselfish. They’re happy for each other.”
The legacy of Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton at Penn State will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come, not only for their individual achievements but also for the camaraderie that has defined their journey together.
