Blue White Game preview: Defensive Backs

Three years ago, the Penn State football team lost all four senior starting defensive backs. Everyone was freaking out about how the program could sustain losing that kind of veteran talent, and continue to win. Well, Penn State emerged just fine, and continued to play at a high level in the defensive secondary the last three seasons. Now, with four seniors again lost to graduation, some with NFL futures on the way, and only two somewhat experienced players returning, Penn State must again find itself a new secondary. The talent returning this year is even better than before, but the experience is far from what is needed to contend for another championship. This weekend, fans will be treated to seeing the newly formed secondary in action. They can only hope things go better than the last time Penn State had to defend the pass... against USC.

CORNERBACKS

• No. 4, Knowledge Timmons. Senior. Starter.

What we already know: Timmons has been the special teams guy for years, but now is his chance to shine. He's lightening fast, and has so-so height (5'10") for a corner. He played in all 13 games last year, and almost every game the last three years. In 2008, he logged 15 tackles, an interception and a pass defended. The coaches like his work ethic so far this season, citing that he really started to mature mentally before last season. That's good news for a guy with so much talent and experience, especially with the youth in the rest of the defensive backfield.

What to expect: It would be very comforting to see him pick one off of Clark on Saturday. At the very least, Timmons needs to play like a senior who's seen everything but a start. He will be the only senior defensive back on the field this weekend, which will automatically make him the go-to leader. Joe Paterno has worried a lot about the secondary, and this unit cannot afford a timid Timmons.

• No. 8, D'Anton Lynn. Sophomore. Starter (until AJ Wallace returns).

What we already know: Lynn was a huge pickup from the Lone Star State in last year's recruiting class. He came to Penn State with excellent measurables (6'1" 190) for a corner, and has the speed to catch any receiver. The coaching staff was a bit worried about pushing Lynn into the lineup too soon, but reports showed that as he played, he improved. In 2008, Lynn played in nine of the last 10 games, finishing with three tackles and a pass defended.

What to expect: If Lynn wants to get more playing time this fall, or even get the nod as the first sub in, he can use a good game on Saturday. While he's young, I don't expect Lynn to crumble under the pressure, mainly because most of the wide receivers are just as in-game inexperienced as he is. Lynn should do fine, and if he can make a few good plays in front of what could be a record crowd, it will be a great way to end spring practice.

• No. 20, Devin Fentress. Redshirt Senior. Backup.

What we already know: Fentress was one of just five true freshmen to play in 2005, and that's saying a lot considering the other names who did: Williams, Norwood, Scirrotto, King. While his height (5'10") may not be great, he's reported to be a solid contributor and a hard worker. He was supposed to be a wide receiver again this year, but with the depth issues at corner until the true freshmen arrive in June, Fentress will continue to play here. Fentress played in six games last year, but didn't record any stats.

What to expect: Fentress will most likely work with the second team, if not be one of the staring corners. He could team up with Shelton McCullough as the two corners going up against Daryll Clark and the offense. With depth such a big concern this off-season, Fentress has to use his experience to make the unit better as a whole. I'm not expecting him to take over on Saturday, but he has to have a solid outing, with no big mistakes.

• No. 16, Shelton McCullough. Redshirt Junior. Backup.

What we already know: McCullough played in only three games last year, but actually put together a relatively nice stat sheet: A tackle, two passes defended and two pass breakups. He is one of the taller corners on the team, at 6'0", and has the weight to back it up. McCullough is quick off the line, but lacks the elite pass coverage skills to contend for a starting spot.

What to expect: As I stated in above, McCullough will probably play opposite Fentress as starting corners for the second team. They can make a big impact by slowing down the offense, especially when the defensive line can't quite get to Clark fast enough. McCullough needs to build on the good plays from last season, and go into the summer with a good game this weekend.

• No. 35, Jesse Alfreno. Redshirt Junior. Backup.

What we already know: Alfreno might contend for one of the lead backup spots this summer, provided he keeps working hard. The coaches like his attitude, and rewarded him with appearances in two games last season. His build (5'11" 195) gives him the frame to work with at corner.

What to expect: Alfreno still has two seasons left, so it's not urgent for him to emerge this spring. But it would be nice. On Saturday, the defense needs the backups to play like they could start right away if needed, and that includes Alfreno.

Injured: No. 1, AJ Wallace. Senior.

What will happen: Wallace has been suffering from a nagging hamstring injury for a few months. While he does work out with the team, he hasn't gone full strength for a long time. He should be fine for the regular season, and will be the starter opposite Knowledge Timmons. Wallace could also continue as one of the best kick returners Penn State has, especially with Derrick Williams' graduation.

SAFETIES

• No. 13, Andrew Dailey. Redshirt Sophomore. Possible Starter (Strong Safety).

What we already know: Dailey was a prized linebacker coming out of high school, and has played admirably on special teams so far. In 2008, he appeared in all but one game, logging five tackles. He has great size (6'2" 228) and is fantastic in run support, as expected from a former 'backer. The coaches really like his development, and is one of the top two candidates in the battle for this position.

What to expect: I'm kind of stuck on whether or not he'll start for the first team, as Nick Sukay (more in a sec) is also right up there for the starting spot. But if Dailey gets the nod, I will be expecting a lot of big hits over the middle. Dailey, should he win the spot, will be replacing Anthony Scirrotto, a known hitter. If a ball comes his way, and it's there for the pick, it would be very comforting to see Dailey come down with it, considering how the secondary has failed to make big interceptions (Ohio State game aside) the past few seasons.

• No. 10, Nick Sukay. Redshirt Sophomore. Possible Starter (Strong Safety).

What we already know: Sukay was hampered by a sesamoid bone injury that required surgery last summer. He's a great prospect at the position at 6'1", 206 lbs. Because of his injuries, the coaches haven't committed to giving him the starting spot over Dailey, but it's still up in the air. He has the talent, but has to stay healthy.

What to expect: I want to see how well Sukay runs. If he looks confident, and can go full speed, I'll feel much better going into the summer practices. I imagine Sukay has been itching to get onto the field, since he's come so close for two seasons. If he doesn't win the starting spot, we could see plenty of him anyway, in the three-safety/nickel-back package.

• No. 28, Drew Astorino. Redshirt Sophomore. Starter (Free Safety).

What we already know: I'll admit, it seemed like Astorino came out of thin air last season. As a redshirt freshman, Astorino played in all 13 games, and actually earned three starts, including at Ohio State when Scirrotto was out with a concussion. He doesn't exactly fit the mold of a play-making safety, but at 5'10", 195 lbs., Astorino packs a big punch for opposing receivers. He tied for the team lead with two interceptions last season, while totaling 39 tackles, five pass breakups, and seven passes defended.

What to expect: With the departure of two very good (Rose Bowl aside) safeties, it will be up to Astorino to set the pace for this unit. He likes the big hit, and doesn't shy away from any opponent. I expect him to display good leadership on Saturday, and continue to play bigger on the field than he appears on paper.

• No. 6, Gerald Hodges. Grayshirt Freshman. Backup.

What we already know: Hodges is one of those rare true freshmen who will be able to play right away for Joe Paterno. Ok, so he's actually a "Grayshirt," meaning he enrolled this past January. But that doesn't take away from the fact that he's already contending for the top backup position behind Sukay and Dailey. Hodges is blessed with the perfect build for a safety (6'3" 210) and even better speed for his size.

What to expect: In terms of defensive backs, I'm most excited to see how well Hodges holds up in a real-game setting like he'll see on Saturday. Similar to my expectations for the backup cornerbacks, Hodges should be able to hold his own against he first team offense, with maybe a small flap here or there. I don't expect him to get lost in the action and give up any big plays.

• No. 7, Cedric Jeffries. Redshirt Junior. Backup.

What we already know: A solid prospect out of The Garden State (like yours truly), Jeffries has the physical build (6'2" 215) to be a successful contributor this season. He saw a good deal of action last year, playing in every game, and finishing with 16 tackles.

What to expect: As one of the top backups going into the spring workouts, Jeffries can continue to provide quality depth to the position. Joe Paterno has been overly critical (justifiably in most cases) of the safeties this spring. That should give Jeffries the green light to leave it all on the field this weekend, and give the coaches something good to say at the next meeting.

• • •

Coming later today...
Special Teams

Previously...
Monday: Quarterbacks and Running Backs
Tuesday: Receivers and Tight Ends
Wednesday: Offensive line,
Thursday: Defensive Line (pt. 1), Linebackers (pt. 2)

Next up...
Saturday night: Report from the game, photos, etc.

*Have something to say about this post? Let your voice be heard, in the ZN Message Forum!

More below the fold...

Reports from the scrimmage

Penn State put on a full scrimmage this weekend, and the reports coming out of it aren't evoking images of last year's offensive juggernaut. Actually, one point is making me a bit sick to my stomach:

"Overall the offense looked "improved," but disappointed at times. "They'd drive right down the field and stall in the redzone and have to settle for a field goal, but the coaches were putting in some new elements." - Scout.com

Is this 2009, or 2007? Because that sure sounds like the Anthony Morelli Special. Granted, this is just the first time the entire squad has scrimmaged itself in full pads, in Beaver Stadium. I get that much, but if you asked me prior to the 2008 season which one offensive aspect the team had to improve on, I would have told you "finishing drives."

Daryll Clark and the offense did finish drives in all but one game, and that just happened to be the only one the lost during the regular season. Field goals won't cut it this season, no matter how good the overall red zone percentage.

Other notes from the scrimmage: Kevin Newsome and Matt McGloin look as good as one would expect for young quarterbacks. Also, Derek Moye is emerging as a go-to receiver. Definitely something Penn State needs before the summer. AJ Wallace is still out with the hamstring injury, and D'Anton Lynn is filling in, but the coaches still want more from the young corner. The secondary remains an issue.

*Have something to say about this post? Let your voice be heard, in the ZN Message Forum!

More below the fold...

Wednesday linkage: Powell, Wallace and Miami

Turns out Chaz Powell is fine, but that doesn't mean everything's hunky-dory. Apparently, AJ Wallace can't get away from the hamstring injury that's been nagging him for what seems like forever, and Joe Paterno is "concerned" about this team's cohesion. Nothing new, but because we haven't had football in four months, everything lately is magnified. Here's the mid-week linkfest.

• The Nittany Line broke out the PSU threat level chart, one of the most original ideas I've seen. You have to go and see it to truly appreciate it.

"The fact that no one else has stepped up enough for Joe to even mention means it's time to raise the Nittany Lion Panic level."

• The Collegian has the Wallace hamstring story. Not the kind of news any of us want to hear right now. But hey, at least it's still spring practice, and not summer workouts.

"I'm very concerned about it," Joe Paterno said of the secondary. "A.J. Wallace pulled a hamstring the other day, and I hoped he would be really one of the outstanding kids."

• Over at PittsburghLive.com, it appears that Paterno is worried about the same thing everyone else is worried about. I don't think we needed a teleconference to figure this one out.

"Paterno's concern — at least in one area — appears to be well-founded. He told reporters during a Big Ten Conference football coaches teleconference that his secondary is particularly troubling to him."

• In other news, Hawkeye Nation, part of the Scout.com network, talked about Iowa's upcoming night games in 2009. We all know about the Hawk's trip to Happy Valley, but the writer wanted to give a little background on Iowa's recent trips to Penn State. Notice the last few words... is it a real typo, or are the Hawkeyes just trying to torture us by making us think about what really happened in 2008?

"It just gets real, real loud in there, with over 100,000 fans packed into the stands. Iowa won there in 2002, 2004 and 2006 before losing in 2008."

• Will Penn State and Miami meet again? Possibly. I hope this works out. I'm also hoping Tim Curley realized that Penn State has gotten the short end of the stick recently with OOC scheduling. But of course, there's also the reports of really, really strong BCS teams from "south of the Mason-Dixon line," that are in talks with Penn State, according to BWI.

• And finally, your Wednesday video:



Have a great rest of your hump day!

*Have something to say about this post? Let your voice be heard, in the ZN Message Forum!

More below the fold...

Looking over the Depth Chart :: PSU vs. 'Cuse

With the weekly game notes, Penn State releases the projected depth chart. I say projected because we all know that things could change after it's released. (See: Idiot Defensive Linemen) But there are some interesting changes this week. The kick returners added a certain sophomore, while the right cornerback spot is still not locked down. So let's dig in.

Stephfon Green (Ok, I think I finally know how to spell it) - He's now listed as the third option for kickoff returns. I really can't figure out why Joe Paterno would do this now, outside of his lack of production last week. But that's stretching it. The coaches probably just wanted another option, and Green looks to be made for kick returns.

Jack Crawford - With the injuries and suspensions piling up along the D-line, Crawford's been pushed up the chart. He's not as thick (listed at 248) as Jared Odrick (listed 303) or Olli Ogbu (lsited 289), but he's 6'5" and pretty quick. Also something to note, Tom McEowen reclaimed his No. 2 spot behind Ogbu. Chima Okoli was bumped down. But really, does it mean anything, with how much Larry Johnson rotates the linemen?

Andrew Quarless - Bumped down to No. 3 tight end. Again, I'm not sure this is so significant. I thought he would have been kicked off the team, hands down. But here he is, and obviously getting back in good with Paterno.

AJ Wallace - Still No. 2 behind Lydell Sargeant. Not too much here, either. With two easy games up, it won't matter how much these two sub in/out. Sargeant hasn't been all that bad. Plus, did you notice that Oregon State never once let Wallace return a kick? Just saying.

Nerraw McCormack - Didn't he used to be No. 2 behind Gerald Cadogan?

Depth Chart (Official GoPSUSports.com)

I think that's about everything for this week's depth chart. This afternoon I'll have up my Top 25. Then later tonight, my Big Ten pick'em for week 3.

More below the fold...

Preview, Game 2: No. 19 Penn State vs. Oregon State

Kickoff: Sat., Sept. 6. 3:30 p.m. ET, ABC/ESPN

Weather Forecast: Strong chance for Rain; Warm.

Host: No. 19 Penn State Nittany Lions
Record: 1-0 (0-0, Big Ten)
Last Game: Defeated Coastal Carolina 66-10
Injuries: DE Maurice Evans (suspension - out game), DT Abe Koroma (suspension - out game), TE Andrew Quarless (suspension - out game), LB Sean Lee (ACL - out season), DE Devon Still (ankle - out season), S Nick Sukay (foot - out season)
Key Players: (offense) RB Evan Royster, QBs Daryll Clark; (defense) S Anthony Scirrotto, LB Josh Hull
Head Coach: Joe Paterno, 43rd season, 373-125-3
Season Statistics:
Offense - 334 rush/260 pass/66 points per game
Defense - 52 rush/198 pass/10 points per game
TO Margin - (+1)

Why PSU will win -- The rushing game: If Stanford can rip off 210 yards against Oregon State, then Penn State shouldn’t have too much trouble. But this week, PSU has to be ready for a team that’s no Coastal Carolina. OSU has won at least nine games two years in a row, and won its last two bowl games. But OSU did lose to Stanford. Penn State will need to keep the ball as long as possible this week, with the suspensions on defense. Special Teams: It’s supposed to rain, a lot. If so, this one can come right down to the special teams play. I’m guessing Kevin Kelly will hit one of two this week, but the return games and punting will be stellar. Even if AJ Wallace doesn’t play (I think he will), Penn State should enjoy great field position on a soggy field.

Visitor: Oregon State Beavers
Record: 0-1 (0-1, Pac 10)
Last Game: Lost @ Stanford 36-28
Injuries: G Jeremy Perry (Knee - Possible), C Marcus Henderson (Mono - Possible)
Key Players: (offense) QB Lyle Moevao, WR Sam Stroughter; (defense) LB Bryant Cornell, DL Victor Butler
Head Coach: Mike Riley, 8th season @ OSU, 47-39
Season Statistics:
Offense - 86 rush/404 pass/28 points per game
Defense - 210 rush/91 pass/36 points per game
TO Margin - (-2)

Why OSU will win -- Turnovers: Get Penn State out of its groove early, and this one could go Oregon State’s way in a hurry. And now with the PSU suspensions, OSU will be looking for every way to take advantage. With slippery conditions possible, look for the OSU defenders to constantly rip for the ball. I’m not sure OSU can go toe-to-toe with PSU if it turns into a shootout, but the Beavers would love for it to come to that. The Passing Game: Oregon State was reduced to chucking the ball around once behind at Stanford. This week, Mike Riley already said the key will be balance. But I really think the balance for OSU will come from the passing game. Get the PSU secondary nice and soft, then send a few runs right at the depleted PSU defensive line. It’s a tough task, even if the PSU defense will be watered down, but not entirely impossible.

What will happen: I just don’t see PSU losing this game. But OSU will scare the hell out of PSU fans. Once PSU pulls away from a tight game, ESPN will talk more about the recent off-the-field issues, instead of the game itself. Daryll Clark will look great again, but the running game will be even better. The defense will be surprisingly stout, but not by PSU standards. The PSU wideouts will shine.

Prediction: No. 19 Penn State, 38 - Oregon State, 24

More below the fold...

Evans, Koroma and Quarless out this week

Yes, Joe's suspended Maurice Evans, Abe Koroma and Andrew Quarless this week. Lord only knows how much of this will effect the team the rest of the season. Of course, I heard about it on ESPN, so I'm sure Brad Nessler & Co. will talk more about this than the actual game. I'm sure Quarless will be gone for good after this one...

I still don't think Joe's lost the team. I just think these players are half-retarted.

More below the fold...

UPDATE :: Weed found in 5204

Yes, marijuana was found in the apartment--which will forever be known as just '5204'--where Evans, Koroma, Wallace live and, newly discovered, Andrew Quarless hung out last night. I'm not so sure this will be as bad as we all thought. I know it's weed, but there's a lot of questions going around right now, which the police don't have answers to, yet.

"Drug law charges will be filed soon, Moerschbacher said, adding police could not specifically say who might be charged in connection with the incident. He said police are still investigating to determine who had possession of the marijuana... Exactly what charges will be filed is hard to say at this point, Moerschbacher said... Evans, Wallace, Quarless and Koroma have not been charged with any crime, Moerschbacher said."

Who had the weed? Well, it seems like this kid did:

"When police arrived at the residence, an officer spoke with Aristides A. Nova (senior-engineering), who told police he does not reside in the residence and was only staying there temporarily, according to the warrant."

Wallace said he wasn't even there, and it seems a bit shady that when Nova shows up, so does the weed. Let's hope this isn't heading down the worst case scenario route, but that Penn State football can move on.

More below the fold...

Here we go again; Police 'respond' to players' residence

Not much is known about this yet, but it seems right now that it's nothing. We'll see. I'm sure it will get blown up, if the media has anything to do with it. Penn State should just call up ESPN right now, sort of a preemptive strike.

"Police entered apartment 5204 late last night for unknown reasons. According to the directory, defensive end Maurice Evans, cornerback A.J. Wallace and defensive tackle Abe Koroma live in apartment 5204."

Wow, that's some fine investigative journalism there, young Collegian grasshopper. Keep it up, and someday you might work for Outside The Lines.

More below the fold...

P.S. I know U., 2008 – Part 4, Defense and Special Teams

Today I’ll go over the defensive backfield, and the specialists at Penn State. Then on Monday, we’ll look at the coaching staff. This won’t be full of messy stats (even though I do love them, oh so much), but it also won’t be straight opinion. This is just to get everyone in the loop when it comes to the key figures for 2008. Hope you enjoy P.S. I know U., 2008.

As before, I’ll describe each player in one of three ways - Great, Good, Decent. ‘Great’ indicates that player is a sure starter, and should get all-conference or All-America. ‘Good’ means that player is a solid starter, someone the team can rely on to do the job. ‘Decent’ goes to many of the backups who will see time in the rotations. I figure there isn’t a player on the two or three deep that is below decent, or PSU is in real trouble.

Part 4, Defense and Special Teams - Defensive Backs, Kickers and Punters

:: Defensive Backs :: [1st Team] A.J. Wallace, Lydell Sargeant, Tony Davis, Anthony Scirrotto (S), Mark Rubin (S) [2nd Team] Drew Astorino, Willie Harriott, Knowledge Timmons, Cedric Jeffries, Nick Sukay

[1st Team]
No. 1. A.J. Wallace [CB, Jr., 6-1/188] – Great. A.J. could become the most prolific kick returner in PSU history with two seasons of eligibility left. Oh yeah, and he’s a pretty damn good cornerback, too. We all know about Wallace’s importance to PSU, so I won’t go on. He’s an All-American returner and All-Big Ten candidate at CB. 2007: Played 652 snaps. 33 tkl, 1 int, 3 fr.

No. 10. Lydell Sargeant [CB, Sr., 5-10/186] - Good. Sargeant lost his job to Wallace following the Ohio State blowout. That doesn’t mean he’s a bad corner. Lightening fast, and much more experienced this season, Sargeant should compliment Wallace nicely. Lydell was also a surprising third on the team in tackles last season, so I expect him to return to his early-season form. 2007: Played 809 snaps; 70 tkl, 1.5 tfl, 2 int.

No. 11. Tony Davis [Nickel Back (NB), RS Sr., 5-10/195] - Good. Davis has been moved around several times in the backfield. He began as the backup to Alan Zamaitis in 2005, then took over the spot in ’06. In ’07, he was moved to safety, but came down with appendicitis, forcing him to sit out the Ohio State and Purdue games. Tony was a much more valuable player in the secondary than he was given credit for, grabbing an interception at Illinois, and was great in run support. Plus, let’s not forget his game-changing fumble return for a TD against Tennessee in the ’07 Outback Bowl. While he’s not listed as the starting cornerback right now, that doesn’t mean we won’t see a lot of Davis throughout the year. He’s too good to sit the bench. I expect to see a rotation of the corners similar to the defensive ends, subbing and flipping on almost every play. 2007: 29 tkl, 1 int, 2 ff.

No. 7. Anthony Scirrotto [Saf., Sr., 6-0/192] - Great. I don’t care how many people are calling him overrated, Scirrotto is still one of the best safeties in the Big Ten. He had a down year in ’07, after his conference leading six interceptions in ’06. Still, he was a major force in the PSU secondary, and should return to ’06 form. 2007: 65 tkl, 1 tfl, 3 int, 1 fr.

No. 9. Mark Rubin [Saf., RS Sr., 6-3/216] - Good. I will never forget watching the 2004 Indiana game, as true frosh Mark Rubin made a diving, one-handed grab on third-and-long for the first down. PSU won the game, and that catch was a crucial play in the victory. A year later, PSU got all the WRs it needed, and Rubin injured his ankle, requiring surgery and ending his season before it even began. He then moved back and forth from WR to S. Then last year, he planted himself as the full-time backup to Tony Davis. When called upon for the OSU and PU games, he did well. Not great, but was serviceable. Rubin grew up a lot last year, and I think he’ll be an important part of the ’07 edition of the PSU secondary. 2007: 32 tkl, 1 tfl.

[2nd Team]
No. 28. Drew Astorino [Saf., RS Fr., 5-10/190] - Decent. You can’t get away from the buzz surrounding Astorino. Joe Paterno, the staff, and the fans have been just gaga about his potential coming out of spring and summer practice. We’ll see. He’s a former dual-sport star in football and basketball out of Edinboro, Pa. Drew made a big splash at the B/W Game this April, when he logged six tkls, and an int. He should get plenty of mop-up duty this year. 2007: No Stats Accumulated.

No. 6. Willie Harriott [CB, RS Jr., 5-8/183] - Decent. Not blessed with size, Harriott makes it all up in speed. He was one of the “speed guys” who came in to PSU in ’05, but redshirted that year. He’s now setting himself up for 2009, when openings at CB will be there for the taking. He’s an experienced player for PSU, but won’t contend for the starting job this year. Harriott has played in games each year at PSU, mainly on special teams. That should continue this season. 2007: Played 48 snaps; 4 tkl, 1 pbu.

No. 4. Knowledge Timmons [Saf., RS Jr., 5-10/186] - Decent. Timmons, besides having the coolest name at PSU, would frequently jaw with Justin King about who was the fastest player on the team. He’ll join players like Harriott this year trying to move up in the depth chart for ’09. A special teams player, he’ll usually line up at gunner. In 2006 at Notre Dame, Timmons could have recovered a muffed punt deep inside ND territory, but rather than just falling on it, he tried to pick it up and run. He lost the ball, and it went back to ND in a 41-17 blowout loss for PSU. He should be better this year, with more experience, and more motivation to concentrate only on school and football. 2007: Played 92 snaps; 5 tkl.

No. 29. Cedric Jeffries [Saf., RS Soph., 6-2/210] - Decent. Jeffries actually saw considerable playing time last year as a RS frosh. He’s listed as a backup LB and S, but I’ll go with S for this purpose. He has great size and speed to go along with it. He should make more than a few tackles this season, as I expect him to rotate in and out of the lineup during meaningful plays. With more teams running spread-style attacks in ’08, guys like Jeffries could emerge as important depth behind the starters. Chances are that he’ll complete the move to LB before the season’s over, but he has a better chance to see the field at S. 2007: Played 154 snaps; 4 tkl.

No. 26. Nick Sukay [Saf., RS Fr., 6-1/202] - Decent. Sukay has been hampered by nagging injuries, but should be good to go by the Big Ten opener against Illinois. I was really hoping to see him and Chaz Powell emerge as the two safeties after this season, but Powell moved to WR, and Sukay will have to wait for his chance. Although not as highly rated out of HS as Powell, Nick offers good instincts and football smarts. 2007: No Stats Accumulated.

:: Specialists :: [1st Team] Kevin Kelly, Jeremy Boone, [2nd Team] Colin Wagner (K), Ryan Breen (P)

No. 23. Kevin Kelly [K, Sr., 5-7/164] - Good. Kelly has endured an up and down career. But contrary to the fan base’s opinion, he’s been very consistent in the three years he’s kicked for PSU. Sure, everyone knows his game-winning kick in the ’06 Orange Bowl. But not many people really grasp that this kid is great at finding the end zone. He’s carried the rock to pay dirt twice already, one for a key 2-point conversion at Michigan in ’05, and scored a TD on a fake kick at Michigan State last year. If the coaching staff stays smart, they’ll use that fake kick play again. I think Kelly will go down as one of the best kickers ever at PSU. 2007: Scored 110 points, 20-26 FG, 44-45 PAT, 1 TD.

No. 41. Jeremy Boone [P, RS Jr., 5-9/184] - Great. PSU won’t overtake places like Tennessee for “Punter U,” but the Lions have made a strong case with the last two boomers. In 2006, Jeremy Kapinos was a finalist for the Ray Guy Award, and finished out a stellar PSU career. In came Boone, and fans’ anxiety was quickly quelled. Boone is a candidate for Academic AA this year, and was named to several All-Big Ten teams, including a few 1st Team selections. 2007: 59 Punts for 43.0 ydpp, 25 punts inside 20-yard line; Ray Guy candidate.

No. 36. Colin Wagner [K., RS Soph., 5-9/170] - Decent. Wagner actually kicked two PATs last season in the opener against FIU. He made both. While he’s not pushing Kelly out of his job, he provides a great sub, should Kelly need a break. Received many honors as a HS K, and played in the Big 33 Game. 2007: 2-2 PAT.

No. 49. Ryan Breen [P., RS Fr., 6-2/194] - Decent. Breen will have some tough shoes to fill once Boone graduates. But then again, when Jeremy Kapinos left, we all thought the same thing. PSU has gotten very good punters in recent years, and Breen seems to fit that mold. He’s a big kid with a strong leg, and should provide a good backup. 2007: No Stats Accumulated.

(Ed. Note--I was going to cover the return specialists, but since I've already gone over those players, I'll just list them here: KR-A.J. Wallace; PR/KR-Derrick Williams; Backup PR-Anthony Scirrotto.)

Coming Monday: Part 5, Coaching Staff.

P.S. I know U., 2008:
Part 1, Offense
Part 2, Offense (cont’d)
Part, 3 Defense

More below the fold...

More on Phil Steele's magazine :: Defense and Unit Rankings

I already covered the offense in the first half of coverage. Now, we'll turn our attention to the defensive rankings, as well as the unit rankings. But first I wanted to mention where PS predicts PSU will go bowling... The... Rose... Bowl. I know, I know, he predicted PSU would go to the Orange Bowl last year, but who cares? This is a new year, and I'd take the Rose Bowl over the freaking Alamo Bowl any day.

Now for the individual defensive rankings. Maurice Evans came to Happy Valley as an All-American, and now he's looking to leave with the same honor. PS ranks Evans as the No. 3 overall DE going into 2008. As I said earlier, he's also the No. 17 overall NFL Draft prospect for 2009, should he declare. Unfortunately, neither Josh Gaines or Jerome Hayes make the list, but it's expected. Gaines is a solid player, not fantastic, and Hayes was injured. Nothing lost there. However, surprisingly PS ranked THREE PSU DTs in the top 60 in that position: Phil Taylor (No. 36), Jared Odrick (No. 55) and Chris Baker (No. 56). Should Baker get out of the dog house, these rankings will hold true, and PSU should have the best rotation of linemen in the country.

Now to the linebackers. Let's get it out of the way. Sean Lee's injury sucks hardcore, but PS still sees fit to rank him as the No. 8 overall OLB for 2008. I guess that's looking at him as if he wasn't injured. But Tyrell Sales pleasantly makes the list, as a very respectable No. 37. That's a bit higher than I thought he'd be, but who's arguing? The out lier in the LB rankings is Chris Colasanti, who has shot up the charts to a No. 38 ILB slot. That could make for an interesting summer for PSU fans that aren't so pleased about Josh Hull jumping Colasanti on the depth chart this spring. We'll see how that plays out.

AJ Wallace, after only a few starts in 2007, makes his appearance as the No. 11 cornerback. Prior to 2007 PS had Wallace as the No. 12 CB, so it's not much of a stretch to figure he's improved, even if slightly. In the middle of the secondary, PSU fails to land a free safety on the board, but that's partly due to Mark Rubin taking over the main role for Tony Davis. I'm sure had Davis been back at FS, he would have been ranked in the top 44, as he was in 2007. Anthony Scirrotto is looking to get back to his 2006 form, and PS thinks he can do it, placing him at No. 8 on the strong safety rankings.

On special teams, Jeremy Boone hasn't let down PSU's growing reputation for top-flight punters. PS has him at No. 10 nationally at his position. Returning punts, PS also has a Lion highly rated, with Derrick Williams coming in at No. 5. AJ Wallace also makes multiple appearances in these rankings, coming in as the No. 3 overall kickoff returner.

Unit Rankings:

I'm a little ho-hum about PS's unit rankings, mainly the quarterbacks. Usually, the team with the best QB has the best QB "unit." So really, there's no real stretch going on with this unit's rankings. It's basically an extended version of the individual rankings. PSU doesn't make the top 32. Florida has the best QB "unit" for 2008. For running backs, I'll give PS a pass, as none of the PSU backs have had more than a few games' worth of playing experience. Only one, Royster, has had any real playing time, yet PS couldn't rank PSU's backs this year for that reason. Look for PSU to take to the top 15 in this category in 2009.

PS took a stab last spring, ranking PSU's wide receivers No. 11. (yes, I have my 2007 preview right next to me, too) That's not the case in 2008. PSU comes up just short at No. 17, and I don't necessarily disagree with PS on this one. Everyone expected PSU to blow up the passing charts, but it never happened. I do think PSU should be somewhere near the top 15 WR units by season's end, though. Rounding out the offensive unit rankings, I can't remember the last time we saw such excitement around a PSU offensive line, and PS justifies why. He has the PSU OL at a lofty No. 10 in the nation. If this holds true, it looks like that BCS bid is well within reach.

Getting defensive, LSU still holds the top line spot, but PSU was not far behind at No. 2 in the nation! PS points out that seven of PSU's DLs have starting experience, and the tackles average 300 lbs. Not a bad thing to have going through that bad October schedule this season. The biggest disappointment for me was seeing PSU's linebacking corps fall all the way to No. 27. That's of course because of Lee's injury, so we have to take this ranking in stride. PSU will once again break the top 15 for this unit in 2009.

I'm not sure if it's just PSU's defense taking a big step back for 2008, or if other teams are just that much better, but like the LB rankings, PSU's secondary doesn't break the top 15--they get a No. 16 ranking for 2008--after coming in at No. 3 before 2007! I'm not so sure we'll see such a drop off, as Justin King wasn't nearly the impact player many hoped he'd be. It's not as big of a loss as many--apparently PS included--may think.

And finally, PSU's special teams get a boost this preseason, as PS ranked them No. 2 nationally! (have you figured out that I'm using exclamation points a lot, in honor of Phil) PS apparently feels PSU's special teams could make a huge difference in 2008, especially in the return game. There's no doubt in my mind that PSU could see as many as FOUR returned kicks for TDs in 2008.

One last note:

I noticed in this year's preview, instead of the team's ranking, PS inserted each game's attendance. I like that much better, as you had the rankings progression in two different spots last season. Plus, it's a good indicator of how a team performs, and what kind of crowd it can attract when visiting opponents' home fields.

PS also has PSU at the No. 5 Surprise Team for 2008. He thinks that if PSU can use the first few games to warm up the offense, mainly the QB play, then they won't be in such trouble come October. PS believes that if PSU can hold the losses down to one, there's a strong chance we could see the Lions in the national championship game. Of course, that would mean other teams would have to lose. But in case we forgot, LSU won the title last year with TWO LOSSES! 2008 is going to be so much fun.

*Check back all this week for more of my thoughts on Phil Steele's 2008 College Football Preivew. Also coming this week: The Big Ten Bloggers All-Conference picks. And on Monday: First Look: Syracuse Orange(men). See you then!

More below the fold...

Thoughts on Penn State's open practice session

Well, this is more like "Thoughts on (what other people are saying about) Penn State's open practice session."

There’s a practical orgy of information and reports coming out of Penn State’s open spring practice session this past weekend. Some of those reports were positive, and others not so positive. I wasn’t there, so I won’t go into speculating how the team looked, nor am I going to look too deeply into depth chart changes—everyone knows it will change drastically between now and the fall, when suspensions and injuries are settled. But there were a lot of interesting nuggets involving the player rotations and performances.

From Phil Grosz, BlueWhite Illustrated:

"Cedric Jeffries was at the "Fritz" OLB position… Tony Davis has been moved from free safety over to left corner."

Is Joe Paterno so dissatisfied with Lydell Sargeant’s play that he’s moved Davis back to his old spot? The Jeffries move to OLB could signal that Paterno is willing to keep Rubin at the safety spot opposite Anthony Scirrotto—why, I have no idea. Hopefully, guys like Nick Sukay and Chaz Powell are playing well enough that the coaches don’t want to keep them buried in the depth chart in 2008.

Grosz:

"First team offensive line:
LT - Gerald Cadogan
LG - Rich Ohrnberger
C - A.Q. Shipley
RG - Stefen Wisniewski
RT - Dennis Landolt"

I’ll admit I’m surprised Wisniewski cracked the starting lineup this early. Sure, he saw plenty of action in 2007, but this could be a huge leap for the true sophomore.

Grosz:

"Linebacker sets:
OLB - Ty Sales
OLB - Bani Gbadyu
ILB - Josh Hull"

We all knew Gbadyu would go in for the tweaked Lee, and I’m not too surprised to see Sales getting the starting nod—the charges being dropped, and all. But what strikes me the most is Hull jumping over Chris Colasanti at the ILB position. Hull played well the latter part of 2007, highlighted by his bowl performance, but Colasanti was everyone’s shoe-in for the ILB job in 2008. This could change, but it’d be nice to have this spot solidified by April 19.

Grosz:

"I want to make a comment about what I saw with the offense and then we'll close this down until Monday when we'll set up a chat and talk about what we saw at today's practice sesson.

Penn State is running a true multiple-set offense.

Here is an example of the formations they ran in today's practice session: 'I' Formation, Shotgun with a single-back and surprised also with a Pro set with Williams positioned at one of the split backs in the pro set, 'Off-set I', and every type of formation from the shotgun.
They were really as multiple as I've ever seen them in the past."

Don’t take too much stock in this. Every year, we’re told that Penn State has really turned the corner when it comes to offensive sets and playcalling. Every year, none of it matters. Who cares if you saw Derrick Williams taking a snap from the shotgun with five other wide receivers on the field? (That didn’t happen; I’m exaggerating to make the point) Penn State will still run the majority of its offense from the I-form or single-back sets. There’s nothing wrong with that either.

From Scott Cole, FightOnState:

"1. A.J. Wallace has become a much more aggressive cornerback. He was making quick breaks on out routes, intercepting one and almost picking off another. He also showed more physicality than we have seen in the past. He was not afraid to stick his nose in there on running plays."

Ok, that sounds outstanding. Penn State corners have had to get in receivers’ faces for years, and Wallace is showing he can do it. However…

Cole:

"3. Derek Moye looked like the real deal. His size created problems for every CB who tried to cover him. He has soft hands as he made grabs deep down the sideline where he badly beat Wallace and over the middle on a slant, both from Devlin."

So the Wallace high just came crashing down. After Michigan 2005, Penn State should never, EVER be beaten on a slant route again.

Cole:

"6. It's not hard to see why the linebacking corps is so good each year. Ron Vanderlinden is very much a teacher in the way he conducts drills. He never raises his voice. He merely points out what a player did wrong and explains how to correct the problem in future. He takes a very positive approach to coaching, preferring to pump a kid up rather than kick him in the butt.

In addition, I noticed both Sean Lee and Tyrell Sales helping Bani Gbadyu and Nate Stupar when their group was not up in the rotation. Sales was showing Stupar how to complete his drops into coverage better. It's this kind of mentoring that shows up on Saturdays when guys get their first chances to play."

Penn State lost a lot of talent in Dan Connor and Justin King. Even the lost of Rodney Kinlaw hurt much worse than any one ever though it could. But this Penn State team has something that’s been missing since 2005—vocal leadership. Lee, Williams, and Shipley have all been at the helm since the team got back from San Antonio. For some weird reason, Penn State isn’t a program that operates well under a quiet, cool leader. Penn State needs guys like Mike Robinson, Alan Zamaitis and Paul Pozlusnzy. I think they’ve found their leaders for 2008, and if they’re as good as those from three years ago, Penn State should be riding high sooner than later.

More below the fold...