As we look ahead to the 2026 college football season, the Penn State Nittany Lions will face an intriguing non-conference opponent in the Buffalo Bulls. Here's a closer look at what to expect from this Mid-American Conference squad.
Program Overview
The Buffalo Bulls, under third-year head coach Pete Lembo (14-11 overall), are coming off a 5-7 season in 2025. While the record might not jump off the page, this team showed flashes of competitiveness, especially against Power 4 competition. The Bulls are a program on the rise, looking to build momentum and return to bowl eligibility after missing out last season.
2025 Season Recap
Buffalo's 2025 campaign was a tale of two halves. They opened with a gritty performance against Minnesota, trailing just 13-10 entering the fourth quarter before falling 23-10. After a blowout win over St. Francis (PA) and a narrow 31-28 victory over Kent State, the Bulls dropped close games to Troy and UConn. A mid-season surge saw them win three of four against Eastern Michigan, UMass, and Bowling Green, putting them at 5-4 with bowl hopes alive. However, a late-season collapse—losing their final three games to Central Michigan, Miami (OH), and Ohio—kept them home for the holidays.
Key Personnel Changes
In a fascinating twist, former Penn State quarterback Ta'Quan Roberson served as Buffalo's starter in 11 games last season, throwing for 2,520 yards, 17 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions on 58% passing. But with Roberson moving on, the Bulls face a major question mark under center. A three-way competition is brewing, with Division 2 transfer Elijah Holmes among the contenders vying for the starting job.
Offensive Outlook
The Bulls lost their top two receivers from 2025—Nik McMillan (transferred to Kansas) and Victor Snow (transferred to NC State)—both moving up to Power 4 programs. That puts the spotlight on returning receiver Gathings, who posted 36 catches for 410 yards and three touchdowns last season. He's a reliable possession receiver who can move the chains, but he'll need consistent quarterback play to shine.
Defensive Strengths
Safety Greer is the heart of the Buffalo defense, returning as the team's leading tackler with 74 stops, including 2.5 sacks. The secondary looks to be the strongest unit, but the front seven will rely on a mix of Division 2 transfers and younger players stepping up. It's a defense that could be vulnerable, especially against a physical Penn State offense.
What to Watch For
For Penn State fans, this matchup should be a comfortable one—barring any unforeseen circumstances like key injuries. The Nittany Lions have the talent advantage, but Buffalo has shown they can hang tough in close games. It's a classic trap-game scenario where focus and execution will be key. For the Bulls, it's a chance to prove they belong on the national stage and potentially pull off a signature upset.
Whether you're a Penn State fan looking ahead to the schedule or a Buffalo supporter hoping for a breakthrough, this game offers plenty of storylines. Stay tuned as we continue our opponent snapshots leading up to the 2026 season.