ATLANTA - In a major blow to the Penn State football team, star left tackle Olu Fashanu will be sidelined for today's highly anticipated Peach Bowl matchup against Ole Miss at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Fashanu, who recently declared for the 2024 NFL draft, had been an integral part of Penn State's offensive line throughout the season. Regarded as a potential top-10 pick, his absence on the field is sure to be felt by the Nittany Lions.

Despite being present with the team during their bowl preparations, Fashanu's name appeared on Penn State's pregame availability report as "out." This news dashed the hopes of fans who were expecting to see the talented left tackle in action one last time before he takes his talents to the professional level.

But Fashanu wasn't the only key player missing from Penn State's lineup. Cornerbacks Kalen King and Johnny Dixon, known for their defensive prowess, were also ruled out for the Peach Bowl. Additionally, offensive guard JB Nelson's status remains uncertain as he is listed as questionable.

The absence of these defensive stalwarts and offensive linemen creates a challenging situation for the Nittany Lions' coaching staff, who will now have to rely on their depth and ability to adjust on the fly to compensate for the key absences.

Another player who had previously declared for the NFL draft but decided not to participate in the Peach Bowl is edge rusher Chop Robinson, a third-year Lion. Robinson had opted out in early December, further depleting Penn State's defensive unit.

However, amidst the disappointment and setbacks, there is a glimmer of good news for Penn State. Third-year wideout Harrison Wallace, who had been sidelined with an undisclosed injury for the last four games of the regular season, is expected to make his comeback. Wallace's return will provide a much-needed boost to the Lions' receiving corps and offer some hope for their offensive game plan in this crucial matchup.

As the Penn State Nittany Lions prepare to face off against the Ole Miss Rebels in the Peach Bowl, the absence of star left tackle Olu Fashanu and other key defensive players will undoubtedly pose a significant challenge for the team. However, with the return of wide receiver Harrison Wallace, the Lions look to showcase their resilience and determination to overcome adversity on college football's big stage.