Bowman, Lee could exit lacking signature play

Sean Lee will graduate, hopefully getting the nod on NFL Draft day this coming April. Navorro Bowman could leave early, joining Lee on the Radio City Music Hall stage. But regardless of whether or not the two linebackers make their Penn State exit together, at this point, neither has a chance of being revered as one of the all-time greats to don the Blue and White at "Linebacker U."

But how could this possibly be? Both have garnered All-Big Ten and All-America recognition. Both have played on some of the most dominating defenses Penn State has ever fielded. And both will end up playing in the NFL.

So, what's missing? "The play."

Name one signature, game-changing, program-defining play made by either Lee or Bowman. You can't. The closest thing might be Lee's forced fumble in the 2007 Outback Bowl, which was scooped up by Tony Davis for a touchdown. But was that really in line with some of the other, actual career-making plays by any of the Penn State linebackers whom we all consider to be the greatest?

In Jack Ham's sophomore season, he blocked three punts, a record that stood until 1989 when Andre Collins (more on him in a minute) tied it. Both Ham and Collins are tied in the Penn State record books for career blocked punts. In Ham's senior season, the All-American racked up 91 tackles in ten games and picked off four passes.

Dennis Onkotz, a contemporary of Ham at Penn State, was not only a notorious linebacker, but a fantastic punt return specialist. Onkotz had a 13.2 career punt return average, taking back two for touchdowns. He was just as valuable to the offense as he was the defense.

Shane Conlan was a two-time All-American, but in his final game as a Nittany Lion, played what could be deemed the best game by a Penn State linebacker in the program's history. In the 1987 Fiesta Bowl, the most watched game in the history of the sport, Conlan twice picked off Miami quarterback and Heisman winner Vinny Testaverde. The second pick Conlan returned down to the five yard line, setting up Penn State's go ahead score as the fourth quarter drew to a close. He would be named the Defensive Player of the Game, the National Championship game, to be precise.

Just a backup when Conlan was roaming the field, Andre Collins became Penn State's next great linebacker. Collins not only tied Jack Ham's career blocked punts record, but came up huge in the 1989 Holiday Bowl, with a 102-yard interception return of a two-point conversion attempt by BYU, one of the most entertaining plays in one of the most entertaining games of all time.

Then there was LaVar Arrington. The two-time All-America selection, and eventual No. 2 overall NFL Draft pick, was the undisputed king of big plays. His patented "LaVar Leap" became a football sensation that endures to this day, punctuated by the best of them all, as Arrington perfectly timed an Illinois running play to hurdle the entire line of scrimmage to tackle the ball carrier before the handoff was even complete. Arrington could go down as one of the best individual playmakers in Penn State football history.

In 2005, the likes of Arrington, Ham and Conlan seemed to be distant dreams, as the Nittany Lions were coming off their worst five-year stretch in program history. But there was hope, particularly in a defense led by junior linebacker Paul Posluszny. One could say that Posluszny's greatest single game came against Ohio State. However, the two-time All-American's greatest single play happened a week earlier, against the Minnesota Golden Gophers. Gopher running back Gary Russell took a hand off from one yard out, going airborne towards the end zone. His journey would be stopped short, though, by a similarly airborne Posluszny, who perfectly judged the play, halting Russell in mid-air before reaching the goal line.

Now, you're probably wondering why players like Dan Connor and Brandon Short aren't on this list. Well, because they are actually the precursors to how Bowman and Lee might end their Penn State careers, without that one play to forever ingrain their image in Penn State lore. Connor was by no means any less of a linebacker than Posluszny, nor was Short to Arrington. But what makes a player into an all-timer is a signature play, or at least a unique reputation like Ham or Onkotz, to define his career.

What have Lee and Bowman done to separate themselves from the rest of Penn State's great linebackers? Nothing, actually.

It's tough to come down on Lee, as he's been hampered by injuries the last two seasons. He might have had "the play" of his own, if he was given the time to do so. But Bowman, should he leave early for the NFL, will definitely leave Happy Valley lacking the one thing necessary to become one of the all-time leaders of Linebacker U -- a signature play.

The opportunities have been there for both of them. While there is no sense in blaming the defense for losses to Iowa and Ohio State, the unit, including its two best players, failed to come up with a big play when the team needed one.

Although time is ticking away, there is still some hope. Lee has three games left in his Penn State career. Bowman could very well come back for his senior season in 2010. But should the rest of this season unfold along the same path it has so far, two of the most talented linebackers ever to play for Penn State -- Linebacker U -- could end their careers as just another pair of great linebackers, but not among the greatest.

Photo: Joe Hermitt, Patriot News

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2008 NFL Draft: The Hangover

That was probably the weirdest draft I've ever watched. My guess is that everyone knew who was going first, had a real strong clue who was second, and the best player in the draft--Darren McFadden--didn't even crack the top three. Penn State only had two players drafted, but this year's episode was a bit more dramatic for the Nittany Lions on the board.

Dan Connor: ZN Pick, Round 1. Actual Pick, Round 3... Wow. That's all you can say. He was the BEST steal of this draft, period. As one reputable Web site said, Connor could have gone in the first round, and no one would have blinked. But he went almost 50 picks later than anyone expected. The best thing he can do now is make all those other teams feel like crap for not drafting him. Like Paul Posluszny before him--before Poz broke his arm--Connor will win the starting job right away and lead the team in tackles.

Justin King: ZN Pick, Round 4. Actual Pick, Round 4... Not bad, not great. He'll get some playing time on special teams, and maybe turn into a good return man. Depending on how the Rams feel about him, he might turn into a dual-threat player. I know it's very rare in this age of the NFL, but throwing King in on a few offensive plays couldn't hurt the Rams.

Anthony Morelli: ZN Pick, Round 6. Actual Pick, Free Agent to the Cardinals... This might work out better than expected for Morelli. There's a great opportunity for him to win the backup. You knew his arm was too much to pass up.

Rodney Kinlaw: ZN Pick, Free Agent. Actual Pick, nothing yet... I hope this kid gets a shot.

Now, on to the 2008 college football season.

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2008 NFL Draft: Penn State's pro prospects and Mock First Round

As part of ZN’s 2008 NFL Draft analysis and projections, here’s a quick rundown of where Penn State’s four pro prospects could end up this weekend. Also included is the “official” ZN mock first round. Now I know nothing about how the NFL franchises pick their players in the draft, nor do I ever care to figure it out. I stick to college. But it’s still fun, so here it goes.

Penn State pro prospects 2008:

Dan Connor: First Round. If he falls to the second round, it will be considered a disappointment for Penn State fans everywhere.

Justin King: Fourth Round. He’ll be a steal at this point. If he goes on the first day, I’ll be shocked. His speed will get him a higher selection than he deserves.

Anthony Morelli: Sixth Round. Don’t get all bent out of shape if Morelli doesn’t go at all in this year’s draft. I know, it’s horrible, but true. His arm should get him a late pick, though.

Rodney Kinlaw: Free Agent. Kinlaw's the kind of player that just needed a chance to prove himself. He might get a chance to do it at the next level, too.

Terrell Golden: Sorry, but he never made an impact on the team other than being captain in 2007. He was a solid contributor for the Nittany Lions and we will all miss him.

Good luck to all who are leaving Happy Valley. Now for the mock first round:

1. Dolphins: Jake Long
2. Rams: Chris Long
3. Falcons: Glenn Dorsey
4. Raiders: Darren McFadden
5. Chiefs: Ryan Clady
6. Jets: Matt Ryan
7. Patriots: Vernon Gholston
8. Ravens: Sedrick Ellis
9. Bengals: Keith Rivers
10. Saints: Mike Jenkins
11. Bills: Devin Thomas
12. Broncos: Branden Albert
13. Panthers: Derrick Harvey
14. Bears: Chris Williams
15. Lions: Dominique Rodgers-Chromartie
16. Cardinals: Leodis McKelvin
17. Chiefs: Limus Sweed
18. Texans: Jonathan Stewart
19. Eagles: Jeff Otah
20. Buccaneers: DeSean Jackson
21. Redskins: Phillip Merling
22. Cowboys: Felix Jones
23. Steelers: Gosder Cherilus
24. Titans: James Hardy
25. Seahawks: Rashard Mendenhall
26. Jaguars: Lawrence Jackson
27. Chargers: Brandon Flowers
28. Cowboys: Aqib Talib
29. 49ers: Dan Connor
30. Packers: Jerod Mayo
31. Giants: Antoine Cason

That’s about as in-depth as I get with this NFL crap. It's still a whole lot of fun, though!

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The Blue-White Roundtable :: Spring Practice 2008

ZN was kinda, sorta invited to participate (finally) in the BWR--I was sent an email by Nittany White Out about their RT, which was followed up by BDS's email that they were already going to do one this week. I was sent that email also. So whether it was intentional or now, here I am, with the special spring practice edition of the Blue-White Roundtable. Here is the list of bloggers taking part in the BWR.

Black Shoe Diaries
The Nittany Line
There Is No Name On My Jersey
William F. Yurasko
Tangled Up In White and Blue
The Big Eleventh
The Nittany Notebook
Run Up The Score
Nittany Whiteout


Let’s start with the ugly news. Chris Baker, Chris Bell, Phil Taylor, Knowledge Timmons, and Navorro Bowman are all sitting out the spring practice sessions. What impact will this have on the 2008 season?

-After Summer workouts begin, not much. Even with the guys who aren’t on the Spring roster, most of them will return and play. Remember what happened last season, when Quarless got nabbed and then played three games into 2008. Joe wants to win, and he’ll let these guys back. Luckily for the team, they’re all upperclassmen. It might work out for the best, giving the younger guys more time going against the first teams.

Would you move Sean Lee to middle linebacker like Paul Posluszny in 2006 and Dan Connor in 2007?

ZN: Never. I’m still not exactly sure why Poz made the move, but unlike Dan Connor—a MLB coming out of high school—Lee has always been a true OLB. With guys like Chris Colasanti ready to burst onto the scene, there’s no reason to take Lee away from his natural position.

If Lee stays on the outside, who would you start at the other outside linebacker assuming Bowman is out of the picture?

ZN: No one will like this, but Hull will make the start against Coastal Carolina. Watch out for Bani Gbadyu, though, as he really came on the last few games of 2007.

Which position on the field is our weakest link?

ZN: Right now, it’ll be the defensive line. But if all of the injuries heal up before June, and PSU gets back at least half the guys in trouble, this won’t be a problem. That being said, in the fall it will be the kick return coverage. The coaches have to start playing first-stringers on kickoffs and punts, or you’ll have more Illinoises and Purdues in 2008.

Who is your pony in the quarterback contro…uh, competition?

ZN: This is a cop-out, but I’m saying Joe breaks down and plays both, ala Florida 2006. Again, Joe wants to win, badly, and if he was willing to study Texas for Mike Robinson, he might just look at some of Urban Meyer’s tapes from the season he won it all.

Name three players that absolutely have to step up their performance this spring?

ZN: Andrew Quarless… This is his chance to put everything behind him. If he wants to even get a sniff at the draft, he needs to play like a man possessed. It’s been a long time since someone with his measurables has played for the Lions. Lydell Sargeant… He lost his job after the Ohio State game, and now has the chance to slide back into the starting job. That doesn’t mean he deserves it. If he can step in front of a few key passes (and actually catch them, unlike Justin King) he’ll earn the position. And finally, The Quarterbacks… I’m really selling out on this two-headed quarterback thing. I really think that if both Devlin and Clark play lights-out this Spring, Joe will be forced to get them on the field together.

Lightning Round

Who is your pick to win the Red Worrell award given to the offensive player that shows the most improvement during spring practice?

ZN: Gerald Cadogan.

Who is your pick for the Jim O’Hora award given to the defensive player that shows the most improvement?

ZN: Josh Gaines.

Your 2008 team captains are…?
ZN: Lee, Shipley, (definite) and Butler (not so definite, maybe Williams)

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For disappointing draft class in Michigan Football history, the winner is…

2008.

I don’t know if things can get much worse for this bunch. Although Chad Henne hasn’t really done much to hurt his draft status, he still isn’t the killer prospect everyone thought he would be during his days as a Wolverine. That doesn’t help the matter. But what is really solidifying this class as one of the most underachieving ever is the lack of production from its supposed star players in this year’s draft.

“Mario Manningham, WR Michigan
Six receivers ran 4.4 or better and 11 ran under 4.5. Manningham wasn't one of them. Rail thin at just under six-feet and 181 pounds, his biggest strength was supposed to be his speed, and then he came up with a 4.59 and a 4.62. While fine at the ball drills, he wasn't as polished as many will probably make him out to be. However, he caught the ball well and still showed enough skill to be among the top five receivers taken. While he'll get another shot back on Michigan's campus to show what he can do, he all but blew any chance of being a first round pick. – CFN.com”

Everyone at Penn State knew that Manningham wasn’t that great, compared to the Michigan wide outs that have ripped us in the past. In fact, he’ll be remembered for only one play when it’s all over. “The Catch” against Penn State in 2005. Outside of that, has he ever showed up in the games that mattered? Ohio State? Bowl games? Of course, he’s coming out early, and if he’d stayed another season, things might have been different. But if you want to look at the icing on this draft class’ cake, look no further than Mr. Mike “Talks-To-Much” Hart.

“Mike Hart, RB Michigan
At 5-9 and 206 pounds, he lifted well with 23 reps, but overall appeared scrawnier than expected, especially in his legs. The big problem was his lack of speed and burst in the quickness drills. The 4.65 and 4.75 40s were disastrous, and he showed little overall athleticism compared to the other smallish backs like Ray Rice and Steve Slaton. His problem will be the workload. Not a third down back or a role player, he's a runner who needs 25 carries and can be a workhorse. Now, it's doubtful anyone will ever think of him as a No. 1 back. – CFN.com”

I don’t know what’s sweeter; that Manningham won’t go in the first round, or that Hart may not even go on the first day. After all the loud-mouthing and constant crap flying out of his mouth, he’s still going to be remembered as a great college back. He’s a back that could will his team to victory—against everyone but Ohio State and three of four bowl game opponents—and pound out drives single handedly behind some of the best offensive linemen in college. But what will that get him? As of right now, not much; maybe he’ll get a nice paycheck every year, but no first-round dough, no instant starting job, and no pro-bowls. I’m not going to say that that last one is a lock, as other backs have defied all and made it to the all-star teams. What I will say is that for the last three seasons, Michigan hasn’t produced knockout pro-prospects the way it did for 35 years. In all seriousness though, I hope Hart and Manningham get playing time, so that they can meet the likes of true first-rounder Dan Connor, and Buffalo Bills starter Paul Posluszny. Have fun guys.

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Article of the day: Mainstream media's analysis is a joke

I generally try to feature an article each day from another site. Usually they're from Penn State or Big Ten blogs, sometimes from other sites. Please check out the author's Web site. I always supply the link in the introduction.

Here's a good one from The Big Eleventh, raising the question we've all asked ourselves at one point or another, "Those guys at Web sites like ESPN, SI and CBS get paid six figures to write that?" This is a two-parter (of sorts) that began yesterday. So, be sure to read it all at The Big Eleventh.

On ESPN.com's analysis of Penn State's recruiting class, thus far:

Penn State: "Unfortunately, the stagnant class could stem from 81-year-old Joe Paterno still hanging in there and not offering the spark often needed to relate to the younger generation of prospects. However, tradition still sells and no one coach in college football represents more tradition than Joe Pa himself."

Big Eleventh says... This is really all a ploy to talk about JoePa's age and, separately, his marketability.

The MSM has reminded us, almost weekly during the season, that Joe is old. They do it again here. Reporters love to comment on how Joe can't "relate to the younger players these days" because it seems to make sense. Problem is, it just isn't true. This years class lacks flash, but just in the last 5 years, off the top of my head, Joe has been able to relate to Connor, Scott, Morelli, Williams and King. All very highly ranked and talked to by dozens of other younger coaches. All chose Penn State. It's not Joe's age that is the problem, it is his style. The problem with saying he's too old is that he has been doing things the same way for 30 years. Almost nothing has changed since his first winning season. His name alone can be enough to win over a recruit, but his style is no longer mainstream and some people just aren't interested. The prospect of waiting 2 or 3 years is becoming more and more of a problem when there are coaches who are willing to plug guys in right away.

As for the marketability comment, I think this guy is on line but his comment is a little misleading. Joe and Graham get along great. Joe likes to coach, and Graham lets him do this. Graham like to make money, and Joe makes this happen. It's never been about football for it's own sake inside Old Main. Each game is really just another fundraising event and if people keep donating regardless of the scoreboard then the scoreboard doesn't matter.

Oh, recruiting, right. We are loaded at linebacker, have a couple of decent RB's out of Ohio, and probably aren't getting Pryor. Ohio State has been to two MNC games in a row and Michigan just landed a very high profile coach...all while we finished our second very average finish in a row. These are our recruiting problems, not old age.

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2008 NFL Draft preview, best 32 available

I’m not going to try to predict which NFL franchise will pick any particular college player. I don’t know enough about the NFL, and rarely do the “experts” pick correctly. So, with that said, I’ll just give a rundown of the top 32 draft prospects. Some players I’ve seen much more than others.

1. Darren McFadden, RB, Junior, Arkansas
2. Jake Long, OT, Senior, Michigan
3. Brian Brohm, QB, Senior, Louisville
4. Sedrick Ellis, DT, Senior, USC
5. Vernon Gholston, DE, Junior, Ohio State
6. Chris Long, DE, Senior, Virginia
7. Matt Ryan, QB, Senior, Boston College
8. Glenn Dorsey, DT, Senior, LSU
9. DeSean Jackson, WR, Junior, California
10. Kenny Phillips, Saf., Junior, Miami(FL)
11. Derrick Harvey, DE, Junior, Florida
12. Jonathan Stewart, RB, Junior, Oregon
13. Ryan Clady, OT, Junior, Boise St.
14. Mike Jenkins, CB, Senior, South Florida
15. Aqib Talib, CB, Junior, Kansas
16. Dan Connor, LB, Senior, Penn St.
17. Keith Rivers, LB, Senior, USC
18. Reggie Smith, Saf., Junior, Oklahoma
19. Calais Campbell, DE, Junior, Miami(FL)
20. Sam Baker, OT, Senior, USC
21. Limas Sweed, WR, Senior, Texas
22. Michael Oher, OT, Junior, Ole Miss
23. Andre Woodson, QB, Senior, Kentucky
24. Jeff Otah, OT, Senior, Pittsburgh
25. Malcolm Kelly, WR, Junior, Oklahoma
26. Felix Jones, RB, Junior, Arkansas
27. John Sullivan, C, Senior, Notre Dame
28. Mike Hart, RB, Senior, Michigan
29. Erik Ainge, QB, Senior, Tennessee
30. Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Junior, Illinois
31. James Hardy, WR, Junior, Indiana
32. Branden Albert, OG, Junior, Virginia

Let me know what you think.

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Article of the day

I generally try to feature an article each day from another Big Ten blog. Usually they're from Penn State blogs, sometimes from other sites. Please check out the author's Web site. I always supply the link in the introduction.

Here's the scouting report I got on Dan Connor, from NFL Draft Countdown. I added the Web site to the list, for future reference.

Height: 6-3 | Weight: 233 | 40-Time: 4.65

Strengths:
Above average athleticism...Reliable tackler...Will deliver the big hit...Physical and aggressive...Adequate timed speed...Has sideline-to-sideline range...Does a solid job in coverage...Smart with excellent awareness and instincts...Versatile...A hard worker and leader...Intense and competitive with a non-stop motor...Tough...Has a lot of experience against top competition...Productive...Great program pedigree.

Weaknesses:
A tad undersized and needs to bulk up...He will have to get stronger...Has trouble taking on blockers head-to-head...Isn't stout at the point...Lacks fluid hips to turn and run in man coverage....A little rigid and mechanical...Minor character concerns.

Notes:
The latest product of Linebacker U...Older brothers Jim (Boston College) and Mike (Lehigh) both played college football...Could project inside or outside at the next level...Was suspended for a few games in 2005 for making harassing phone calls to a former assistant coach..He may have been a little overhyped by the media...A weakside prospect who carries a pro grade similar to Paul Posluszny's a year ago.
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Career Statistics
Year GP TKL TFL SACK PBU INT
2004 10 85 4.5 1.0 0 1
2005 9 76 5.5 1.5 8 0
2006 13 113 9.0 5.0 2 2
2007 13 145 15.0 6.5 6 1
Totals 45 419 34.0 14.0 16 4

This is one of the most realistic analyses I've seen. The rest of the draft board is very well done, also. NFL Draft Countdown does the best job of remaining objective in their picks and projections, not letting biases get in the way, or media hype. They look at the real player and what that player can really do in the NFL.

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News and Notes: Lucky 13 and Bobby Petrino

Logic has prevailed. The Big Ten has ruled to migrate towards a 13-week schedule, beginning in 2009. This is not exactly a breakthrough, though, as all but two of the coaches--Lloyd Carr and "Little" Jimmy Tressel--have been pleading for a bye week since the NCAA went to 12 D-IA games in 2006.

"I really like the fact our players and coaches can go home for Thanksgiving," Tressel said on Nov. 20, three days after the Michigan game and two days before Thanksgiving. "We ask so much of these kids, to train all year long, and for them to get four days to just be kids with their parents, I put a lot of value on that," Tressel said.

Strange how the two coaches of Michigan and Ohio State coincidentally support keeping their rivalry in a more ratings-friendly slot. If that game was to move a week or two later--many of the national rivalries are played after Thanksgiving--would as many USC or UCLA, Florida or Florida State, Pitt or West Virginia fans watch? Sure, many would still, but you wouldn't get that overpowering hype of the "Third Week in November."

He won the Bednarik Award for a reason. Dan Connor was selected Big Ten Player of the Year by CollegeFootballNews.com--in my opinion, the best source for accurate, realistic analysis and predictions--along with first-team defense selection Maurice Evans. Sean Lee missed out on a first team slot, as he came in a tight fourth, also being listed as the seventh best overall player in the conference, regardless of position.

What I, and many Penn State fans and coaches, have been saying is that the Lions haven't gotten their fair share of accolades for 2007. It could be in part that other players--OSU's James Laurinaitis, Vernon Gholston for example--have been getting more national press from the start, making it nearly impossible for other more deserving players to jump ahead of them. The three best players on the second-best defense in the Big Ten made CFN's all-conference squad. That's why it's the first Web site I check each morning.

Petrino returns to the SEC. Not many people remember this, but Bobby Petrino was the offensive coordinator at Auburn when the Tigers beat Penn State in the 2003 Capital One Bowl. You know, the guy who coached up a few named Campell, Brown and Williams. But, as you would expect, Petrino has stayed close to his SEC roots by copping out of his current job, and scooting to another in less than a media timeout. Don't blame Arkansas though. They needed a coach, badly. And they got a big name early enough for Petrino to get in some quality recruiting time.

Just for kicks, the SEC's highest-paid coaches (Saban, Miles, Petrino, Tuberville, Nutt) will make an estimated combined salary of $14.8 million in 2008. Their combined record from 2007 (including Petrino's NFL record) is 36-26. Is that really the bang those schools are looking to get from their buck? Remember, Joe Paterno makes a salary of just more than $500K. I think the SEC has an image problem.

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Bednarik three-peat

He was a longshot, but shouldn't have been. I'm thankful that cooler heads prevailed when voting for the 2007 Bednarik Award, selecting Dan Connor as the nation's top defensive player. He deserved it. He probably would have won it last season, had it not been for Paul Posluszny.

OSU's James Laurinaitis was extremely overrated this season, the product of a monstrous marketing campaign by OSU and the national media. How good would he have been on a defense with less supporting talent? What if OSU lost 3-4 games? He wouldn't have even been in the conversation. He arguably wasn't even the best player on that awesome defense.

LSU's Glenn Dorsey has been the golden boy of the national media all season. Sure, he was hurt a few weeks ago, and hasn't played the same since. However, if Dorsey is just as good now, then why isn't Dennis Dixon still in the Heisman conversation? I don't buy the excuse, "well, if he didn't get hurt..." That's bull. He got hurt, HE isn't as good as he was in September and October. You're voting for his performance all season, not just before he was injured.

If Connor didn't win, it would have been a travesty. Feel good stories, NFL prospects and ifs and buts don't cut it when evaluating if a player is the best. Connor is the leading tackler at Linebacker U. Connor has made more tackles this season than the previous Bednarik winner did in his winning seasons. Connor came up huge in every game, even if the rest of the defense didn't. Way to go, Dan! You definately deserved it.

From GoPSUsports.com:

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Penn State All-America linebacker Dan Connor has captured the Bednarik Award as the nation's top defensive player, giving "Linebacker U" its third consecutive recipient of the honor.

Connor was announced as the winner of the Bednarik Award tonight during the nationally televised Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards program at the Atlantic Dance Hall at Disney's Boardwalk.

"The reason I went to Penn State is because it's Linebacker U," Connor told ESPN's Chris Fowler at the awards show. "To be even mentioned in the same breath as Jack Ham, Paul Posluszny, Shane Conlan, that's an unbelievable honor.

"Seeing Paul win this award gave me something to shoot for," Connor said to the media covering the event. "Meeting the other guys up for the award and talking to them has been great. It's a great honor. I'm hoping Sean (Lee) can keep it going next year because he's an unbelievable player."

Also a finalist for the Butkus Award, which will be presented Friday night in Orlando, Connor becomes the fourth Nittany Lion to win the Bednarik Award. He joins fellow linebackers LaVar Arrington (1999) and Paul Posluszny (2005 and '06) as recipients of the award, which has been presented by the Maxwell Football Club since 1995 in honor of former Philadelphia Eagles standout Chuck Bednarik.

The Bednarik Award will formally be presented to Connor at the Maxwell Football Club's Awards Dinner on March 7, 2008 at Harrah's Entertainment Complex in Atlantic City, N.J.

Connor also was selected to the Walter Camp Football Foundation All-America Team, the nation's oldest All-America team. He becomes Penn State's 91st first team All-America selection and the 14th Nittany Lion to earn first team All-America honors twice. He earned first team All-America honors from The Sporting News in 2006.


Connor becomes the 74th first-team All-America selection under Coach Joe Paterno. At least one Nittany Lion has been named an All-American in 37 of the 42 seasons Paterno has served as head coach.

The Nittany Lions' career tackle leader with 410 hits, also was one of three finalists for the 2006 Bednarik Award. Last year, "Linebacker U" became the first school to have a pair of Bednarik Award finalists.

A native of Wallingford, Pa., Connor previously was named a finalist for the 2007 Butkus Award, presented to the nation's top linebacker, and a semifinalist for Walter Camp Player of the Year. He also was a semifinalist for the Rotary Lombardi Award and a candidate for the Nagurski Trophy and Lott Trophy.

The former Strath Haven High School All-American leads Penn State and the Big Ten with 136 tackles (66 solo) for an 11.3 per game average that ranks No. 7 in the nation. Connor's 136 tackles are No. 4 on the school season list He is second on the team and 10th in the Big Ten with 14.0 TFL for minus-61 yards. Connor is second on the team and 10th in the conference with 6.5 sacks (minus-50). He also has one interception, one fumble recovery and six pass break-ups.

Connor has 20 career double-digit tackle games, including eight this season. He became the Nittany Lions' career tackle leader against Purdue on Nov. 3, passing Posluszny, who made 372 stops from 2003-06.

Connor made a career-high 18 tackles against Ohio State on Oct. 27, the most by a Nittany Lion since Posluszny had 22 hits at Northwestern in 2005. He also grabbed an interception in Penn State territory and made one tackle for loss vs. the Buckeyes.

Playing near his hometown on Nov. 10, Connor tied his career-high with 18 stops in Penn State's 31-0 win over Temple. He recorded 10 tackles in the first quarter alone and had 1.5 sacks to earn Walter Camp National Defensive Player of the Week and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week honors for the second time this season. The Big Ten honor was the fourth of Connor's career. He also earned both honors after recording 12 hits in Penn State's 31-10 win over Notre Dame on Sept. 8.

Coach Joe Paterno's Nittany Lions completed the regular season with an 8-4 record and will face Texas A&M (7-5) in the Valero Alamo Bowl. The Nittany Lions' second Alamo Bowl appearance is Saturday, Dec. 29 at 8:00 p.m. ET in the The Alamodome in San Antonio. Penn State will be playing in its 34th bowl game under Paterno, who is the all-time leader in bowl

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No. 22 Penn State vs. Michigan St., Preview

School: Michigan State University (MSU), Spartans
Conference: Big Ten
Head Coach: Mark D’Antonio, 24-22 overall
Last Game: Defeated Purdue, 48-31
Record Last Five Years (sans 2007): 26-34 overall; 0-1 in bowls; 12-7 non-conference

Key Players, Defense: DE Jonal Saint-Dic, CB Otis Wiley, LB Kendell Davis-Clark

Key Players, Offense: RB Javon Ringer, RB Jehuu Caulcrick, WR Devin Thomas

What to look for: D – This really depends on which MSU defense decides to show up this week. This unit has the playmakers in guys like Saint-Dic (14 TFL, 10 Sks, 8 FF) and Wiley (4 INT), but lacks consistency to come up big when the team needs it. Against Michigan, they couldn’t prevent the long passes mixed with Mike Hart’s running. MSU is giving up a mediocre 351 ypg and 26 ppg, and has to have one of its better days against PSU to win. Getting pressure on the PSU passing game is a must, even if it doesn’t generate sacks. Forcing early throws and getting PSU out of its rhythm is essential. MSU can’t allow PSU to establish its short passing game to set up the run, as it’s done in most of the 8 wins. PSU has been suspect to turnovers, and that falls right into MSU’s lap. Get a few of those, and this one could get ugly, for once in MSU’s favor.

O – There’s no questioning MSU’s ability to put up points, but against the only really good defense it’s faced in 2007–OSU–it managed only 3 points. This won’t be a repeat of the 2006 game, where MSU QB Brian Hoyer threw 61 passes for 291 yards. D’Antonio is an old fashioned Big Ten coach with a modern twist. MSU is averaging 200 rush ypg and 221 pass ypg, one of the most balanced attacks in the nation, but the key will be the run game versus PSU’s front seven. Ringer (1298 rush yards) and Caulcrick (20 rush TDs) have been ramming it down opponent’s throats all year, and MSU needs them to keep the offense balanced. The only way to crack PSU’s defensive brick wall is to tire it out with first downs and more first downs. While the run game is a key factor for MSU, using it to set up the pass will only work if guys like Thomas can get the ball enough. He’s quietly been one of the best WRs in the conference with 1087 receiving yards and 168 rushing yards in 2007. Oh yeah, and he’s also really good at…

ST – returning kickoffs. MSU leads the conference in kickoff returns at 28.9 ypr, which bodes well against PSU, which has been suspect against good returnmen. The best thing MSU can hope for is solid play on both return units and coverage teams, with a big play or two from Thomas. In 2005, a blocked punt in the end zone broke the game open in PSU’s favor. Playing smart special teams might be the deciding factor in this one.

C – In 2003, when John L. Smith led MSU to a bowl game, there was renewed optimism around the program, but this is different now with D’Antonio. Smith brought excitement and flash, but D’Antonio has brought quiet confidence and discipline, something MSU desperately needed. The MSU coaches have the tools to beat PSU, but can they use them effectively enough to get this one in the W column?

Interesting Stat: MSU defensive ppg in 6 wins: 20; ppg in 5 losses: 34.2.

School: The Pennsylvania State University (PSU), Nittany Lions
Conference: Big Ten
Head Coach: Joe Paterno, 42nd Year, 372-123-3
Last Game: Def. Temple, 31-0
Record Last Five Years (sans 2007): 36-25; 1-1 in bowls; 7-4 non-conference

Key Players, Defense: LB Dan Connor, DE Maurice Evans, DT Phil Taylor

Key Players, Offense: RB Rodney Kinlaw, WR Derrick Williams, OTs Dennis Landolt and Gerald Cadogan

What to look for: D – Stop the run, plain and simple. Turning MSU one-dimensional should almost guarantee a win. PSU needs a huge game from the front seven, and more importantly, the front four. Taylor has been emerging as a big-time player, and his ability to get into the backfield before the runner can get to the line will be a huge factor this week. When MSU decides to pass, PSU can’t give Hoyer any time. Evans and Josh Gaines have to play big and get in Hoyer’s face. Don’t give MSU time, or you’re dead. Connor has become the best LB in the country, hands down, and can nearly lock up his awards with a good showing and a win this week. Although the PSU secondary has been playing a bit lax lately, I don’t expect them to have much trouble, as this whole game is about stopping the run. If PSU gets a lead, the defense has to play like every down is their last. Don’t give MSU an inch until the final whistle.

O – Don’t turn the ball over, Anthony Morelli. A fumble on the one-yard line against Temple had the PSU fans grimacing, but everyone knew it wouldn’t matter in that game. Well, against MSU, that kind of mistake will matter. PSU has had some trouble pass protecting, but the run blocking has been more than solid. That’s a bit deceiving, as PSU does much better when using the pass to set up the run. Kinlaw had the game of his life against a pretty bad team, but can really cement his legacy this week. Another career day came in the form of Williams’ 100 yard receiving yards. I’m not sure why it took so long, but he’s finally gotten the ball more where he can make a difference. He has to keep up his stellar play and break a few big ones against MSU. But the biggest match up will be the PSU OTs against Saint-Dic. Neutralizing his pass rush could save the day for PSU.

ST – What’s happened to PSU’s return game? I know, it’s not too bad, but it was supposed to be one of the best in the nation. The only big play this season came in week two against Notre Dame. Otherwise, the return men haven’t made that much of a difference. Williams is hot, and he can gain huge momentum going into the bowl game if he can launch a big return against MSU. This could be a low-scoring game, and a spark from the return game could make the difference.

C – Don’t get tight. The PSU staff has to get the ball to the playmakers. If Williams doesn’t touch the ball at least 12 times, there’s a problem. The play calling was good enough last week to beat Temple, but can the staff get enough going to beat a Big Ten team coming off a good win over 7-4 Purdue?

Interesting Stat: PSU is 11-3 against MSU since joining the Big Ten in 1993, but all three losses were in Spartan Stadium. Most of the time, PSU got embarrassed, 49-14 in 1997, 35-28 in 1999 and 41-10 in 2003. Sorry, I know, but PSU has to be careful this week.

GAME PREDICTION: I’d really like to see this one turn into a slugfest, the kind PSU loves to play. If it comes down to defenses, PSU’s should be able to hold its own against an inconsistent MSU offense. Look for a boring game through he first half; with either team possibly holding a slim lead. It’s really hard to call this one, as I don’t know if PSU will take advantage of its talent on offense. If PSU plays loose and smart, they can secure another 9-win season. If PSU comes out flat, and allows MSU to get a few energizing plays, a trip to the Champs Sports Bowl is almost certain for 2007. I think MSU will keep it very close, if not lead into the second half, but PSU has just too much talent to lose. Kinlaw gets another big day. Williams scores a TD. MSU logs less than 350 yards of offense, most of which comes in the first half.

PSU 27, MSU 23

VEGAS:

PSU (-2) MSU

ACTUAL SCORE:

PSU 31, MSU 35

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No. 22 Penn State vs. No. 1 Ohio State, Preview

School: Ohio State University (OSU), Buckeyes
Conference: Big Ten
Head Coach: Jim Tressel, 69-14 overall
Last Game: Defeated Michigan State, 24-17
Record Last Five Years (sans 2007): 55-9 overall; 5-1 in bowls; 19-1 non-conference

Key Players, Defense: LB James Laurinaitis, DE Vernon Gholston, LB Larry Grant

Key Players, Offense: RB Chris Wells, WR Brian Robiskie, QB Todd Boeckman

What to look for: D – This is the best defense in college football, no doubt about it. OSU essentially shut out MSU last week, with only three points coming off a late FG. Had OSU not given up the TDs off turnovers, they would be giving up less than 6 ppg. Laurinaitis is having an AA-caliber season, even if his stats aren’t out of this world. He’s always in the right place at the right time. OSU will need every bit of Laurinaitis and his fellow ‘backers, Grant and Marcus Freeman. While Grant has been the least publicized, he’s been more productive than anyone on the defense, racking up 7.5 TFL, 3 sacks and an INT. Between the LBs and the line, led by Gholston, OSU has to make stopping the PSU run game priority No. 1. Forcing PSU QB Morelli to win the game will allow the OSU secondary to roam free, without stacking the box.

O – This is not the best offense in college football, though some would make it seem that way. Yes, I know 415 ypg is great, but working with a defense like theirs, OSU never has to worry about making mistakes. OSU hasn’t faced a defense as good or consistent at PSU, or an environment like Beaver Stadium at night this season. Boeckman almost lost the game last week, and if he commits any bad turnovers this week, OSU may not be able to cover it up. Look for a healthy dose of Wells to keep the clock moving and the PSU offense off the field. If OSU can hit a few deep ones to Robiskie or WR Brian Hartline, it can keep PSU off balance. The problem is, PSU plays much better against conventional attacks, like OSU’s, and in hostile territory, OSU will have plenty of communication problems to deal with. OSU will have to avoid stupid penalties, especially in long down situations, as it will only encourage the PSU crowd.

ST – This is Tressel’s forte, but turned out to be less of a factor in 2007. But in a place like Beaver Stadium, OSU will need every point it can muster, which is where K Ryan Pretorius comes in. He’s 13/16 on the year and can’t afford to miss any against PSU. The return game hasn’t been the same since Ted Ginn departed, and in a big game like this, OSU may need a spark from a big return. Field position hasn’t been a problem either, as P AJ Trappasso should win the Ray Guy award, and can keep PSU pinned deep all night.

C – Tressel is the man recently in the Big Ten. Next to USC’s Pete Carroll and Texas’ Mack Brown, not coach has been more consistent. However, PSU has played OSU tough every year, and this week at PSU will make things even worse. Tressel is 1-2 when playing at PSU, with the one win by a single point (21-20, 2003). He failed to unleash his offense in 2005 until the final drive, and it cost OSU the game. If Tressel pulls a “Paterno” and goes conservative on the road, PSU could spring the upset.

Interesting Stat: The buckeye confection, made to resemble the tree's nut, is made by dipping a dollop of peanut butter fudge in milk chocolate, leaving a circle of the peanut butter exposed. These are a popular treat in Ohio, especially during the Christmas and NCAA college football seasons. How gay, if you ask me!

School: The Pennsylvania State University (PSU), Nittany Lions
Conference: Big Ten
Head Coach: Joe Paterno, 42nd Year, 369-123-3
Last Game: Def. Indiana, 36-31
Record Last Five Years (sans 2007): 36-25; 1-1 in bowls; 7-4 non-conference

Key Players, Defense: LB Dan Connor, CB Justin King, DE Maurice Evans

Key Players, Offense: QB Anthony Morelli, RB Rodney Kinlaw, WR Derrick Williams

What to look for: D – There’s something wrong with college football is Evans isn’t selected lineman of the year. His 10.5 sacks and 17.5 TFL leads the conference, and he’s poised to set school records left and right. PSU will need him on every play against OSU. PSU held Kellen Lewis in check pretty well last week until the last TD run. But Boeckman doesn’t have that run threat for PSU to worry about. So look for more blitzes with Connor and Lee coming as a fifth rusher. OSU’s line is much stronger than IU’s, but even a diluted pass rush should be effective against a stationary Boeckman. James Hardy hosed King last week, but OSU doesn’t have a Hardy. If King can lock down Robiskie, PSU can get more pressure on stopping the run. With DLs Odrick and Hayes out, the line has to step up and forget about being tired. There’s no reason for a poor showing from this unit in Beaver Stadium, unless…

O – The offense puts them in holes. I must say that this unit is night-and-day better than the first half of 2007, but haven’t faced a team like OSU yet. Morelli had one really bad throw last week on the INT, but it wasn’t critical or deep in PSU territory. Regardless, PSU can’t afford any turnovers this week. Morelli did a super job finding the hot receivers and recognizing coverage/blitzes last week, and OSU is sure to try to confuse the living hell out of him. But PSU can avoid relying on Morelli to win the game if the offensive line can get a good push. Kinlaw has been a huge surprise this season, and when he’s not going, RB Evan Royster has shown his youthful brilliance. Like in the 2005 edition, this game could come down to a few pick plays, one of them being when Williams took a pitch in for a TD run, outrunning AJ Hawk in the process. Get Williams in the open with some blockers, and he’s gone to the races.

ST – Special teams bailed out the offense last week, as K Kevin Kelly hit all of his FGs. Hopefully for PSU, this unit won’t be needed as a difference-maker. The biggest focus for PSU should be on kickoffs and punts coverage. If OSU is forced to start drives deep in its own territory, PSU has the defense to make a 90-yard drive nearly impossible.

C – Paterno has to let his coaches do their thing again. It worked great at IU, and can work at home just the same. Let Morelli throw some deep, and don’t be afraid to call some shots to the middle of the field. In 2005, Paterno opted to go for it on 4th-and-2 on PSU’s first scoring drive. PSU needs that sort of confidence in their coaching staff to win in 2007.

Interesting Stat: PSU has only hosted a No. 1 team once, Notre Dame in 1989 (PSU loss 34-23). Paterno is 4-7 all-time against No. 1 teams.

GAME PREDICTION (assuming it rains): This will not disappoint fans. Beaver Stadium will once again live up to its “Greatest Show in College Football” moniker. OSU will take its first drive and move the ball well, scoring a TD to make the PSU fans uneasy. But PSU will come back, kicking a FG to come within four, midway through the second quarter. A tipped Boeckman pass will be picked off by DE Josh Gaines and returned to the OSU 20. PSU will get a quick score from Royster, 10-7 PSU. OSU will get one last possession before the half, with just enough time to tie it on a FG. 10-all at halftime. Neither team will score in the third quarter, exchanging turnovers and punts in a boring stretch. OSU’s Wells will rip off a 25 yarder in the fourth, but a missed handoff will force OSU to settle for a FG. 13-10 OSU. PSU will get the ball back with less than 6 minutes to go, and facing third and very long, get a pass interference call to continue the drive. Morelli will capitalize and on the next play, hit WR Deon Butler inside the five. Three straight runs will result in a Kinlaw TD. OSU will turn it over on downs inside the PSU 35, and PSU runs the clock to less than a minute. Three hail mary’s later… PSU 17, OSU 13. I just can’t see PSU losing at home. I know, UM did it, but his is OSU. PSU’s actually beaten them this century.

PSU 17, OSU 13

VEGAS:

PSU (+3.5) OSU

ACTUAL SCORE:

PSU 17, OSU 37

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It's Wednesday

And I'm bored yet again...

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Next Butkus Winner... Lee?

Could it be that the best linebacker on the 2007 PSU football team is in fact not AA Dan Connor, but Sean Lee? It's a very tough call, but the junior LB is every bit as good as the senior captain, in terms of production on the field:

S. Lee- Tackles: 63; TFL: 5; Sack: 2; PD: 2; FF: 1; FR: 0.
D. Connor- Tk: 58; TFL: 8.5; Sack: 4; PD: 5; FF: 0; FR: 1.

I don't know about any of you, but those are award-consideration numbers. If Lee continues on this pace, he'll log 126 total tackles, and double everything else. That would be the highest single-season total since Ed O'Neil had 126 in 1972 and Brian Gelzheizer in 1994. (Both had 126).

Connor, on the other hand, can easily smash Paul Pozluszny's career record (372) with 390 if he continues at his current 2007 pace. He's already seventh on PSU's all-time tackles list. Remember, Connor missed the first three games of 2005, a season which he had 76 tackles in nine games.

This is just something that I've noticed lately, especially PSU's defense woke up on time against Iowa. I'm going to the Wisconsin game this week, so I expect to lose my voice by the end of the first quarter. I would expect nothing less from anyone else in attendance.

I expect to finally post my comments on this week's ZN Top 25 rankings. It was a crazy week, part of a crazy season. Could 2007 be the greatest season ever for college football? We'll leave that for another day.

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