Penn State University (PSU) wrestling, under the guidance of head coach Cael Sanderson, has become a dominant force in the world of collegiate wrestling. The Nittany Lions have produced numerous national titles and All-Americans, and their 2023-2024 schedule promises to be another exciting and challenging season. The PSU wrestling schedule features tough Big Ten competition, as well as key non-conference duals and tournaments that will test the team as they aim for more success on the mat.
In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the PSU wrestling schedule for the 2023-2024 season, highlighting the major duals, tournaments, and postseason competitions, as well as what fans can expect from Penn State’s star-studded lineup.
1. Overview of the 2023-2024 Season
Penn State’s wrestling program has set the bar high for success, winning 10 NCAA team titles since 2011 and producing a number of individual champions. The Nittany Lions’ 2023-2024 schedule reflects the challenges necessary to prepare for another title run, with tough competition both within and outside the Big Ten.
The schedule is packed with key conference duals, high-profile non-conference matchups, and tournaments that will prepare PSU for the ultimate goal: capturing another NCAA title.
. Key Early-Season Dual Meets
Penn State’s season kicks off in November with several dual meets that will help the team build momentum before entering the heart of the Big Ten schedule. These early competitions allow the team to fine-tune their performance, give younger wrestlers a chance to shine, and work on strategies for more difficult matchups later in the season.
a. Penn State vs. Lock Haven – November 10, 2023
The season opener will see Penn State face in-state rival Lock Haven at home. While Lock Haven is not on the same level as PSU in terms of national rankings, this dual meet will allow the Nittany Lions to get some early-season mat time and build confidence.
b. Penn State vs. Lehigh – December 8, 2023
Lehigh is a historically strong wrestling program that often provides Penn State with a tough non-conference matchup. This annual showdown is highly anticipated and always delivers competitive action. The dual, held at Rec Hall in State College, will be a test of Penn State’s depth and a good barometer of the team’s progress heading into the Big Ten season.
3. Big Ten Conference Matchups
The Big Ten Conference is known as the toughest in collegiate wrestling, and Penn State faces off against several top-ranked opponents within the conference. The Big Ten duals are critical for preparing PSU wrestlers for postseason competition and maintaining a high ranking throughout the season.
a. Penn State vs. Iowa – January 26, 2024
The rivalry between Penn State and Iowa is one of the most intense and high-stakes matchups in collegiate wrestling. Both programs have dominated the NCAA landscape in recent years, and their dual meet is often considered a preview of the national championships. Iowa, led by head coach Tom Brands, will be a formidable opponent, and this year’s dual will be hosted at the Bryce Jordan Center, promising a packed and energetic crowd.
Key individual matchups, such as Roman Bravo-Young vs. Iowa’s Spencer Lee (if Lee returns), could be some of the most exciting battles of the season. This is a must-watch event for wrestling fans.
b. Penn State vs. Michigan – January 12, 2024
Michigan has consistently been a top contender in the Big Ten, and their January 12, 2024, dual meet with Penn State in Ann Arbor will be a key road test for the Nittany Lions. Michigan’s lineup boasts several nationally ranked wrestlers, and this matchup will be crucial in determining Big Ten dominance as both teams push toward the postseason.
c. Penn State vs. Ohio State – February 2, 2024
Ohio State is another perennial powerhouse in the Big Ten, and Penn State’s February 2, 2024, dual meet against the Buckeyes in Columbus will be a major test for both programs. Ohio State has the talent and depth to challenge PSU in multiple weight classes, making this one of the season’s most anticipated duals. Both teams are likely to have several top-ranked wrestlers, leading to exciting individual bouts.
4. Mid-Season Tournaments
In addition to the Big Ten duals, Penn State will compete in several mid-season tournaments that give the team a chance to face non-conference opponents and sharpen their skills against some of the nation’s best wrestlers. These tournaments are a key part of the schedule, allowing the Nittany Lions to test themselves outside of conference competition.
a. Southern Scuffle – January 1-2, 2024
The Southern Scuffle is one of the premier mid-season tournaments in collegiate wrestling, held annually in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It attracts top programs from across the country, and Penn State has historically performed well at this event. The deep field of competitors provides a preview of the NCAA Championships, as many of the nation’s best wrestlers compete at the Southern Scuffle.
This tournament gives Penn State wrestlers valuable experience against top-tier competition, and strong performances here will build momentum heading into the second half of the season.
5. Postseason Competitions
The regular season is only the beginning for Penn State, as the ultimate goal for the Nittany Lions is postseason success in both the Big Ten and NCAA Championships. These two events are where the team’s preparation and talent come together in pursuit of titles.
a. Big Ten Championships – March 9-10, 2024
The Big Ten Championships, held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on March 9-10, 2024, are the most competitive conference championships in the country. With many of the top-ranked teams and individual wrestlers hailing from the Big Ten, this tournament is a precursor to the NCAA Championships. Penn State has consistently dominated at the Big Ten level, with multiple individual titles and team championships over the past decade.
This year, Penn State will aim to continue that tradition, with wrestlers like Roman Bravo-Young, Aaron Brooks, and Greg Kerkvliet leading the charge.
b. NCAA Championships – March 21-23, 2024
The NCAA Championships are the pinnacle of collegiate wrestling, and Penn State has thrived on the national stage. Held in Kansas City, Missouri, from March 21-23, 2024, the NCAA Championships will bring together the top wrestlers from across the country, all vying for individual and team titles.
Penn State has won 10 NCAA team titles since 2011, and they will once again be favorites to capture the title in 2024. Wrestlers like Bravo-Young, Brooks, and Kerkvliet are expected to be in the hunt for individual national championships, while the team will look to continue its dynasty.
6. Key Wrestlers to Watch
Several standout wrestlers will be key to Penn State’s success this season. Here are some of the top Nittany Lions to watch during the 2023-2024 season:
- Roman Bravo-Young (133 lbs): A two-time NCAA champion, Bravo-Young is one of the most exciting and talented wrestlers in the country. He will be looking to capture his third national title this season.
- Aaron Brooks (184 lbs): A three-time NCAA champion, Brooks is aiming for his fourth title in 2024. He has been dominant at 184 pounds and will be a key figure in Penn State’s postseason success.
- Greg Kerkvliet (285 lbs): The heavyweight standout, Kerkvliet is one of the top-ranked wrestlers in his weight class. His performances this season could be the difference-maker in Penn State’s pursuit of team championships.
7. Conclusion: Penn State Poised for Another Strong Season
The 2023-2024 PSU wrestling schedule is packed with exciting dual meets, competitive tournaments, and the all-important Big Ten and NCAA Championships. With a roster full of talented wrestlers and a proven coaching staff, Penn State is once again in a position to contend for both conference and national titles.
Fans can look forward to a season filled with thrilling action as the Nittany Lions aim to continue their dominance in collegiate wrestling. From early non-conference matchups to the Big Ten gauntlet and the ultimate challenge of the NCAA Championships, Penn State wrestling will be must-watch throughout the season.
