James Franklin: ‘Too early’ to say if Abdul Carter will play in Orange Bowl

Abdul Carter is doing everything he can to be a full go against Notre Dame in Thursday’s Orange Bowl. But five days out, it’s still too soon to tell if the Penn State football defensive star will be able to play in the College Football Playoff Semifinal matchup.

“He’s doing great,” James Franklin said on Saturday afternoon. “His attitude is great. His mentality has been really good. We’ll see. I think he’s taking the right approach and mentality. It’s going to come down to how he feels and how much practice he’s able to get during the week.

“At this point, I don’t think there’s anything that is stopping him from playing. But it’s just going to come down to, how is he able to play? And, we’ll see.

“But his mentality is great. He’s got a big smile on his face. I think he’s excited about this week. But it’s too early to say at this stage.”

The standout edge rusher left last Tuesday’s Fiesta Bowl during the second quarter. He ultimately watched the Nittany Lions close out a 31-14 win over Boise State from the sidelines.

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Now preparing for the most important game of the season, Carter hasn’t been subtle about his efforts to get back on the field. Leading the team with 21.5 tackles for loss and 11 sacks, the Nittany Lions would benefit greatly by having Carter’s disruptive presence up front against No. 7 Notre Dame.

“I know Abdul will want to play next week, and he’ll do everything in his power to play next week if he’s able to,” Franklin said immediately following the Fiesta Bowl.

Penn State football and Notre Dame will face off in the Capital One Orange Bowl on Thursday night at 7:30 p.m. ET.

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