Penn State star defensive end Abdul Carter will be a "game-time decision" for the Orange Bowl on Thursday night, coach James Franklin said Wednesday. Carter suffered an apparent left arm/shoulder injury in the Nittany Lions' Fiesta Bowl win over Boise State on Dec.

In an era that is now long gone, a trip to the Orange Bowl meant a break from the rough weather up north and the capper to a successful season that might even end with a championship trophy in the case.

No. 7 seed Notre Dame and No. 6 seed Penn State will face off in the Orange Bowl on Thursday night in the first of two College Football Playoff semifinal matchups. On the line is a spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship as both programs are hunting for their first national title in almost 40 years.

Penn State anticipates All-America defensive end Abdul Carter playing against Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff semifinal, though coach James Franklin says it will be a game-time decision.

Where things are as Abdul Carter hopes to suit up for Penn State against Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff semifinal game.

Penn State is hopeful that star pass-rusher Abdul Carter will be able to play in Thursday's College Football Playoff semifinal game against Notre Dame.

Penn State star Abdul Carter is expected to play vs. Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff semifinal, James Franklin said.

The availability and ability of the Penn State star defender will go a long way in determining the Orange Bowl winner.