FORT LAUDERDALE — Penn State’s top defensive player is expected to start tonight’s game against Notre Dame.

Abdul Carter, who injured his left arm/shoulder against Boise State in the first half last week and did not return, is “doing everything he possibly can to play,” James Franklin said Wednesday morning.

“We anticipate Abdul playing,” Franklin said.

The coach called it a “game-day decision,” but he sounded optimistic.

“His approach has been awesome,” Franklin said. “He’s lived in the training room. Abdul’s approached this the right way. He wants to play. We are hopeful.”

Carter, a junior, is projected to be a high first-round draft pick this spring. He is the reigning Big Ten defensive player of the year and a first-team All-American.

His 11 sacks led the Nittany Lions.

n Former PSU tailback Devyn Ford is a backup with ND. Ford, who transferred from the Lions in 2022, has carried 11 times for 53 yards this season. He also plays on special teams.

— Compiled by Neil Rudel