Penn State DC Tom Allen ‘So Happy’ for Former Indiana Players After Historic Season
Tom Allen, the current defensive coordinator for Penn State, has shared his genuine excitement and happiness for his former players at Indiana after what has been a historic season for the program. Allen, who led the Indiana Hoosiers as head coach from 2016 to 2020, left an indelible mark on the university and the players he coached. His deep connection with those players remains evident, and he has continued to support them from his new position at Penn State.
The season in question has been one of the most successful in Indiana football history, marked by significant wins, milestones, and a competitive performance in one of the toughest college football conferences. For Allen, the success of his former players isn’t just about football—it’s about seeing the growth and development of young men he mentored over the years.
“I’m just so happy for those guys,” Allen said in a recent interview. “To see them succeed, knowing what they’ve been through, the challenges, and the work they’ve put in, it’s just amazing. When you invest so much time in these players, you form bonds that go beyond the game itself.”
Allen’s tenure at Indiana was not without its challenges, but it was also a period of tremendous growth for the program. Under his leadership, the Hoosiers made significant strides, culminating in their 2020 season, which was a historic one for Indiana. For the first time in years, the team was ranked in the Top 10 nationally, a testament to the foundation Allen laid and the hard work of the players.
Though Allen moved on to join Penn State as their defensive coordinator, he has never lost touch with his former players at Indiana. Many of those players who thrived under Allen have gone on to have successful careers, and he has expressed pride in their accomplishments. From standouts like Michael Penix Jr., who led the Hoosiers to several memorable victories, to other key players who played under Allen, the defensive coordinator has watched their growth with immense satisfaction.
For Allen, the success of these players is a reflection of his coaching philosophy, which centers on building character, trust, and discipline. He emphasized that while the wins and accolades are important, it’s the personal development of his players that matters most. “At the end of the day, it’s about preparing them for life, not just the game of football. Seeing them do well on and off the field—that’s what really makes me proud,” Allen shared.
The 2024 season for Indiana football was a defining moment, with the team achieving remarkable victories over top-ranked opponents. A historic bowl appearance, combined with personal and team achievements, highlighted the Hoosiers’ newfound competitiveness in the Big Ten. For Allen, witnessing his former players continue to push the program forward served as validation for the hard work put in during his tenure.
“I just want the best for them,” Allen continued. “We talk about brotherhood and the relationships we build, and I’m so proud of how they’ve all stuck together and kept pushing. It’s a great feeling to see them accomplishing their dreams.”
As defensive coordinator at Penn State, Allen has continued to use the lessons he taught his former players to help the Nittany Lions succeed. But even with his new responsibilities, his support for Indiana football remains unwavering. He regularly checks in on former players, attends games when possible, and offers advice to current coaching staff.
“Even though I’m in a different role now, I’ll always have a connection to Indiana,” Allen stated. “I’ll always be rooting for them, and especially the guys who were part of that special time.”
This unique bond between Allen and his former players is one of the many reasons why his legacy at Indiana will continue to be felt for years to come. As the Hoosiers push forward with a new chapter, Tom Allen’s influence remains a guiding force, inspiring future generations of players and coaches alike.
In the end, Tom Allen’s pride in his former Indiana players is more than just about football—it’s about a lifelong connection formed through the shared experiences and the hard work that defined their time together. As those players continue to shine on the field, they carry with them the lessons learned under Allen’s watchful eye, continuing to make him proud as they pursue greatness.
