James Franklin ‘hopeful’ Penn State star will return for Michigan

A few hours before kickoff the Penn State football availability report was issued before the Maryland game. On that report, Penn State listed star defensive end Chop Robinson as OUT. He missed his second consecutive game this season due to injury. However, many fans were curious when reports stated that not only was Robinson at the game but he also suited up and took part in pregame warm-ups. But why was he there but not able to play? James Franklin explained why it was important to have Robinson at the game for the sake of team morale. He also commented on the status of Chop Robinson and Amin Vanover ahead of the Michigan game.

James Franklin explains why Chop Robinson traveled to Maryland

It was an important win for Penn State football on Saturday. Maybe even more important for the Nittany Lion defense to play well in support of their brother Chop Robinson. As you know, Robinson transferred from Maryland to Penn State ahead of the 2022 season. Players such as Adisa Isaac and Abdul Carter flashed four fingers on both hands to show their support for the injured Robinson. During his media availability, James Franklin explained why it was important to have Chop Robinson on the sidelines this weekend.

Franklin said, “First of all, I think it’s very telling, right, that when we talk about our depth that we have two of our better defensive ends out of that game in Chop and Amin [Vanover], and specifically Chop, maybe our most explosive defensive player, having him out of that game and still be able to play the way we played.”

Franklin later commented saying, “I thought being able to travel him was big, not only from a rehab standpoint to get him with our trainers and doctors but also from a morale standpoint. You know, that was something we talked about in the locker room.”

James Franklin ‘hopeful’ Chop Robinson, Amin Vanover will return from injury for Michigan game

While injury kept us from seeing Robinson or Amin Vanover against Maryland, the team was able to find success without them. But the Michigan game will be another whole challenge. Could we see one or both players return to the gridiron on Saturday in Beaver Stadium?

James Franklin explained, “So the opportunity and the possibility to have both of those guys back this week will be significant. Franklin continued, “Not just finding a way to get a win and playing well, but also playing for Chop with his inability to play last week. So, we’re hopeful to have both of those guys back.”

If Penn State can have its defense line at full health before the Michigan showdown, which will kick off at Noon on FOX this Saturday.

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