Blue White Roundtable wrap: Spring edition

A few months ago, I pitched a Blue White Roundtable to the guys, but there wasn't a whole lot of interest until we all actually had something to talk about. So, now that spring practice is over, and we really don't have anything to talk about, let's do this thing!

This editions usually unusual suspects: (TINNOMJ was supposed to be in on this too, but he's probably passed out in a drunken haze under the BJC loading docks. And I guess BSD, all three of them over there, are too cool for this kids stuff. I'm sure during the season, though, they'll all be back. *Late note: I also forgot to invite HHV, but I promised to get him on board next time.)
Y. F. Yurasko
The Nittany Line
We Want the Lion
Nittany Whiteout (Devon, Kevin)

1. Ok, so the Blue White Game and spring practice is done. Whether you just read the reports, or actually watched the game... (a) What's one glaring team/unit/player issue you're still concerned with? (b) What are you most pleased with?

I loved WFY's answer. After running through his concerns, he mentioned that although he's always a bit worried about the offensive line, its track record of late is worth its weight in confidence:

"With a decent offensive line, even Anthony Morelli can lead you to New Year’s Day bowl wins."

Kevin (NWO) dug right into the dimlema facing all of us - evaluating the secondary.

"In the Blue White game there were four touchdown passes and 17 first downs by passing... On the flip side I guess I could credit the entire passing unit from quarterbacks to wide receivers."

Fellow NWO'er Devon must be thinking about the same hit I saw. You know, by that No. 6 kid in the secondary. But still, concerned like all of us.

"Gerald Hodges did look awesome, so there’s that. This is a position I’m not calling a glaring weakness just yet but I do want to see something from the position before I proclaim it solid."

He also really liked the receiving corps, all of it. You can't blame him. The tight ends haven't been this strong in, well, almost ever.

"When you consider the ability of Quarless and Shuler to add some catches, there shouldn’t be too precipitous of a drop-off from last year."

WWTL say it's all about the O-line.

"...the area we're probably most concerned with is the offensive line. The popular answer will be the secondary, and yes, that's a concern, but it was a poor secondary last year and the Lions still managed to win the Big11Ten. If the O-line can't mesh by the time the conference slate hits, it could be a long season."

Over at TNL, things are looking up, at least to them, for the quarterback situation. They liked that No. 6, too.

"Gerald Hodges may knock a few guys unconscious this year. Newsome looked great, all the reports were he was getting eaten alive in practice, if that’s the case he’s already grown leaps and bounds in a very short time."

2. Navorro Bowman was held out of the game for probation violation. He did admit his mistake to Joe Paterno, and took responsibility. But he still shouldn't have done it. What punishment do you think will be appropriate, and why?

WFY compared it to Dan Connor's punishment in 2005 (ZN - Oh yeah, remember how we were all freaking out about that? Was it really that long ago?), and gives Bowman 2-3 games.

Kevin (NWO) thinks Bowman can completely avoid the wrath of Paterno, as long as he flies straight this summer.

"If Bowman makes a significant dent in his service in the summer (and honestly he should complete all 100 hours easily) I think he will avoid any sanctions from Paterno."

Devon (NWO) reminds us of the really tough year Bowman's been through, and while he did make the mistake, it's something that has to be taken into consideration.

"Considering what he’s gone through, losing his dad and his high school coach, who was a father figure to him, I don’t want to see anything bad happen to Navorro."

He also said that if Anthony Scirrotto can coordinate a mob assault on someone, and not miss a game, Bowman should be fine.

TNL doesn't see it as a big problem, although...

"...the overall stupidity is inexcusable."

On the other hand, WWTL took a more hard-line approach. I'll give you an extended cut, because it's so different from everyone else's.

"We like the judges decision because he has zero wiggle room to make a mistake and we're really tired of the "boys will be boys" or "well they're just kids in college" excuse. We were kids in college in the not-so-distant past and we turned out fine. Playing on this team is a privelage so we wouldn't be at all disappointed to see Navorro or anyone who makes similiar mistakes sent off the team. Everyone in the world has problems in their personal lives and we're all youths at one point or another, we don't think either of those give someone an excuse to be an idiot."

They adde that he'll probably get 2-3 games on the bench.

3. Penn State's offensive staff said after the game that things were kept pretty simple. Do you think this year's returning offense will be able to handle an offensive scheme with the same complexity as the 2008 version? Why or why not?

Pointing to the loss of the receivers, particularly all-purpose D-Will, WFY:

"...it will look fairly similar to last year, just a little less gimmicky."

I wonder if he talked to Kevin (NWO):

"I am not sure who could replace the versatility of Derrick Williams so we won’t see as many wide receivers sweeping behind the line of scrimmage and bursting up field for 20 yards. As the season progresses though, so will the offense."

Devon (NWO) isn't so worried about D-Will's replacement (most likely Chaz Powell, No. 2, coincidentally). Rather, the team needs to find a suitable replacement for Deon Butler (ZN - I couldn't agree more).

"Chaz Powell might be able to fill the role of Derrick Williams-lite, but I don’t see anyone filling in the role in a dynamic downfield passing game that gave Deon Butler something like 20 yards per catch."

WWTL said a few cupcakes will always make you feel better.

"Hopefully they can work the kinks out against the cupcakes, and then we'll probably see things open up more."

TNL isn't concerned with the offense, as many others are, and points to the leaders. You know, like that first team All-Big Ten quarterback we got coming back. Then again, it's easier to wind up an offense when playing local JV squads.

"Take into account the tune up out of conference schedule and don’t look for much, if any, drop-off."

4. Five Penn Staters were drafted, while 10 more signed free-agent contracts. Was there any pick/signing that surprised you the most, either positively or negatively? What did this 2009 NFL Draft say about the Penn State football program?

WFY's answer really reflects my own view on this issue, where even though we enjoy seeing Penn Staters do well in the draft, it's not a major factor for the program.

"I don’t really feel the need to validate Penn State by how it does in the NFL Draft."

Kevin (NWO) sees it as a bigger plus for Penn State.

"Five picks scattered through out the draft shows that Penn State has NFL talent that is both highly sought after and the kind of players that are expecting to pick up some reliable players."

Devon (NWO) went down that same line.

"We know about those with immense physical talents like Aaron Maybin and Williams, and even for those who don’t, like Norwood and Scirrotto, we know how hard working and dedicated they are."

WWTL remembers back only a few years ago, and just how bad things were around these parts. The connection between college production and success in the draft can't be ignored.

"...the coaches have done a better job recruiting since 2005, because these guys are just better athletes than the ones we saw in 2003 and 2004. ...We also were surprised that our entire secondary was signed after the shellacking they took on a national stage against USC."

TNL looks at the flip side of the draft, which makes a whole lot of sense.

"The downside is more guys leaving before they should, because they get convinced their stock is far higher than it is."

Hmmm, wonder who he was talking about.

Shooting from the hip...

1. Average PSU offensive PPG/defensive PPG in 2009?
Devon (NWO): 36-16
Kevin (NWO): 33 offensive ppg/ 15 defensive ppg
WWTL: 35/21
TNL: With our schedule this year? 40/18
WFY: Hmmm, someone didn't read the directions. You failed pre-school. Although, he has a good projection for yards per game next season, of 430 on offense, and a surprisingly low 270 on defense.

2. USC's Mark Sanchez (5th overall - Jets): Too high?
WFY: No.
Kevin (NWO): Yes, but the Jets did need him.
Devon (NWO): As a Jets fan, I sure hope not. (ZN - Me too, but purely as a Jets fan)
WWTL: Not if you're a Jets fan.
NTL: Yes, he had several disturbingly pedestrian efforts last year, but can thank Penn State for their defensive Rose Bowl performance that no one remembers them

3. How many Lions drafted in 2010?
WFY: 4.
Kevin (NWO): 3.
Devon (NWO): 7, but there are a lot of draft eligible juniors on this team.
WWTL: 3.
TNL: Just looking at the seniors – 5, but also points to juniors possibly leaving.

4. List you're top three Big Ten teams, as of today.
WFY: Penn State, Ohio State, Iowa
Kevin (NWO): Ohio State, Penn State, Illinois
Devon (NWO): Penn State, Ohio State, Illinois
WWTL: 3.) Iowa, 2.) Ohio State, 1.) Penn State; We're the champs until someone proves otherwise.
TNL: Ohio State, Penn State and since the Big Ten has a surprise team pop up the last few years, let’s go with Northwestern. (ZN - Hear that LTP?!)

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Roster updated for Blue White Game

Just a little housekeeping before the big day tomorrow. I've updated what I've been told were some position changes on the roster. So, as far as I know, my current roster (found in the linkbar above, and in the Gameday section on the right) is correct and up to date. Let me know if there are any issues.

Link: Updated Penn State Football roster, Blue White Game 2009

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Blue White Game Preview: Offensive backfield

Happy Valley will roar once again this weekend, with the gathering of 70,000-plus Nittany Lion faithful to watch the annual Blue White Game. In advance of this weekend's action, I'll breakdown what we already know about each player and position, and what we should expect to see from them on April 25.

Let's dig in. First up, the quarterbacks, running backs and fullbacks.

QUARTERBACKS

• No. 17, Daryll Clark. Redshirt Senior. Starter.

What we already know: Penn State hasn't been able to enjoy this kind of confidence in its quarterback in more than a decade, if not longer. Clark emerged from his spot as career backup, to be named first-team all-conference last season, with one of the best TD-INT ratios you could ask for (19-6).

What to expect: Going into the Blue White scrimmage, fans can take comfort in knowing that Clark doesn't have to even play, if it weren't for the 70,000+ fans demanding they see some Penn State football on April 25. He could throw 33 percent with a pick or two, and I wouldn't care less. That's because of this next guy...

• No. 12, Kevin Newsome. Grayshirt Freshman. Backup.

What we already know: The prospect of Newsome using this year to learn from a All-Big Ten quarterback, then potentially having a full three years as a starter, should give us immeasurable hope for the future at quarterback. But until the season begins, we'll just have this one game to really see him live. I'm not sure this outing will hurt him in any way, as he's only been on campus for a few months, longer than the regular true freshmen. Newsome is a bit lankier (6-3/215) than Clark (6-2/235), but is reported to have better (yes, better) mobility and arm strength. But we all know that accuracy is what matters most in the offense Penn State runs. It was Clark's bout of inaccuracy that ultimately cost Penn State the Iowa game last year.

What to expect: Newsome will get most of the reps at quarterback in the Blue White Game, which will give the fans a lot to go by. Even if he has a bad day, I think there won't be such an outcry of worry about him, as he's not the only option on the table. Plus, most fans know that this is just one scrimmage, and the regular season is a very long time away. Newsome just has to show that he can complete a few important passes, and use his mobility to escape the certain pressure the defensive line will put on him. Decision making and escape ability is the most important thing to look for.

• No. 11, Matt McGloin. Redshirt Freshman. Backup.

What we already know: Not much, other than Joe Paterno is making McGloin out to be another Paul Cianciolo. That might not be a bad thing. Cianciolo was a great career backup, who really stepped up (Michigan '06) when the team needed him. McGloin reportedly has great arm strength, and can complete his fair share of passes. He's also a half-year ahead of Newsome.

What to expect: McGloin could end up with the most attempts and yards between the three main quarterbacks. We've heard all the reports about his arm strength, but should be curious to see how he handles himself in front of 70,000 people.

• Others to note: No. 15, John Kelly; No. 16, Shane McGregor. Both Freshmen.

What we already know: Next to nothing. Well, other than their jersey numbers. We could see these two in action on April 25, but it will be more symbolic than anything. Paterno and the staff want to get everyone out there at some point.

What to expect: They should have fun. Kelly and McGregor could go their entire careers without playing a regular season down, but they will be part of something very few people have ever been. Be sure to cheer these guys when they do well.

RUNNING BACKS

• No. 22, Evan Royster. Redshirt Junior. Starter.

What we already know: The guy's good, really good. Considering he wasn't used to grind out 30 carries a game, he frequently made the difference between a one-dimentional offense and what we saw last year. Royster went out of the Rose Bowl with an injury after just a few carries, and his absence was felt the rest of the afternoon. Against teams like Oregon State, Illinois, Purdue, Michigan and Ohio State, Royster kept the defenses guessing, while opening up options for the passing game. He's the co-MVP going into the fall.

What to expect: A light day. Royster won't get a lot of carries. However, he might get more than fans think, with the absence of Stephfon Green and Brent Carter due to injuries. Like Clark, no one should be concerned about seeing Royster tear up the field.

• No. 3, Brandon Beachum. Sophomore. Backup.

What we already know: Beachum played sparingly last season, most of his 28 total carries coming in the first four games. His season game high was eight carries for 43 yards and a touchdown in the opener, followed by 12 and 39 yards against Syracuse and Temple, respectively. Beachum is not a rocket like Green, but he has a good downhill style, ala Tony Hunt. He enrolled at Penn State early, in January 2008, giving him a leg up on most of the other 2008 class. Due to Green's and Carter's injuries, Beachum is listed as the No. 2 tailback.

What to expect: After painfully watching every tick of the Rose Bowl, it became glaringly obvious that a good third-string running back isn't something to take for granted. That is precisely why Beachum's development this spring and summer is paramount to the team's success this fall. I will be very curious to see how Beachum performs this Saturday. He will be running up against the first-team defensive front, which is one of the best nationally going into the season. I'm not expecting him to run all over the defense, but he can take pride in his play by just gaining positive yards and helping move the chains. If I find myself looking deeper, his pass blocking will tell a lot about where he'll end up this fall.

• Others to note: RB No. 24 Derek Day. Redshirt Freshman, walk-on.

What we already know: Nothing. He was good enough to make the team as a walk-on, which is more than most of us can say.

What to expect: He'll get his fair share of carries in the Blue White Game, particularly due to the injury-plagued unit he's a part of. He'll have lots of fun out there.

• Out with injuries: No. 21 Stephfon Green and No. 32 Brent Carter, the No. 2 and No. 3 backs in 2008, are both rehabbing injuries.

FULLBACKS

• No. 37 Joe Suhey. Redshirt Sophomore. Starter.

What we already know: Suhey is the most experienced of all the fullbacks going into this season. He carried the ball nine times for 26 yards, in both a tail- and fullback role last year. It's been reported he plays like Matt Hahn did two years ago, in a hybrid-FB style. Suhey is a bit quicker than the average fullback, and catches the ball well, but doesn't have the brute strength of a Dan Lawlor or BranDon Snow.

What to expect: I want to see him catch the ball more. But really that's up to the coaches who call the plays. If Suhey is in fact like Matt Hahn, then he should be used like Matt Hahn. A good, versatile fullback is a potent weapon for a team still developing its wide receivers. Plus, adding him to the passing game would be a nice little wrinkle to get the fans going on Saturday.

• No. 23, Shaine Thompson. Redshirt Sophomore. Backup.

What we already know: Thompson came from the same school (JFK in the Bronx) and team as Stephfon Green. His position could switch again, as he played linebacker last season for the foreign team. For the spring, he was moved to fullback and has actually turned heads. Reports came out this week that he's made some defenders look silly, and could play a bigger role the rest of this off season. He did not accumulate any stats since his arrival at Penn State.

What to expect: Reserve running backs live and die by their ability to pass block, and Thompson is a prime example. If he wants to see playing time this fall, he'll have to solidify his blocking abilities. Thompson is currently at fullback, which means his running skills will come in handy some this weekend, but one sure way to gauge his progress at that position will be in his blocks.

• No. 44, Larry Federoff. Redshirt Senior. Backup.

What we already know: Federoff transferred into Penn State after playing at Edinboro for two seasons. He has been a good sport about his role on the team.

What to expect: Even though he didn't play all four years at Penn State, he's still a senior, and that means something at Penn State. He'll get his playing time in the Blue White Game, but don't expect a huge role this fall.

• • •

Next up...
Tuesday: Tight Ends and Wide Receivers.
Wednesday: Offensive and Defensive Lines.
Thursday: Linebackers and Defensive Backs.
Friday: Special Teams. Last minute updates.
Saturday night: Report from the game, photos, etc.

I'm also finishing up the updated .pdf version of the eligibility depth chart, that you'll be able to take with you to the game. Expect it to be ready tomorrow afternoon.

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The Sean Lee injury, one year later

Well, it was actually a year ago this past Sunday that we heard Sean Lee would miss all of 2008 with an ACL explosion. It took me two full days to gain back my composure and write something about it, one year ago today. So, since I'm still working on material for the rest of this week and next, let's take a look at my reaction to Lee's injury, and what I thought it meant for the team:

Originally posted on April 14, 2008:

All-American Sean Lee just destroyed his ACL in practice. Now he’s gone bye-bye for 2008. Although he’ll be back in 2009, this leaves a huge question mark hanging over Penn State’s outside linebacker spot. Who will fill that void? Does Penn State even have a chance now this season?

Now that the horror of Saturday night has passed, we can all take a deep breath. Not that it will help. The loss of Lee was nothing less than devastating to Penn State, not just the team, but the program as a whole. But remember, when the old farts in Old Main didn’t come up with a plan to deal with the old fart in Lasch Building, we said it wasn’t time to panic. When it seemed like Penn State football players were gaining daily recognition in the police blotters instead of the sports page, we said it wasn’t time to panic. When Chris Bell went, well, insane, we said it wasn’t time to panic. And you know what? It’s still not time to panic.

Lee’s injury was bad, but it’s not the end of the world. Why?

The Offense: No, not the offensive line, not the wide receivers, but the whole freaking unit. I don’t care when JokePa conjures up as the Spread HD crap. If this team doesn’t average 35 points per game, Penn State should just drop football altogether. When you have the best offensive line in years, a mobile quarterback to make plays when the protection (rarely) might break down, a stud running back that can break one loose any moment, and the best freaking wide receivers in the conference, you have the luxury of out-scoring the other team, if it comes to that. But it shouldn’t in 2008, because of…

The Defensive Line: This unit was the first to be hit by the injury and law bugs. But with the rest of the team’s problems, not too many people have noticed the defensive front four coming back together. Chris Baker might be gone (still not positive yet), but Phil Taylor will pay his dues, Jared Odrick and Jerome Hayes are almost done rehabbing those injuries, and the younger backups have gotten a full spring of working with the first team. This should be the conference’s best defensive line, and could actually improve on 2007’s 46 sacks. And if opposing tailbacks get through the line, or if Penn State needs extra pressure on the quarterback, there’s always…

The Backup Linebackers: It’s easy to forget how many really good linebackers Penn State has landed the last four years. Fans actually complained how many were signed, saying few would actually see the field. Well, now Penn State has a large stable of players to choose from, hopefully filling in for Lee. Nate Stupar, Cedric Jeffries, Bani Gbadyu, Andrew Dailey, and hopefully Navarro Bowman will all be ready to play on the outside. Throw in the three freshmen “Mikes”—Mike Yancich, Mike Mauti (although now he’s listed at the safety spot behind Mark Rubin) and Mike Zordich—and Penn State has possibly the best, deepest group of linebackers in the conference, if not the nation.

Don’t think I’m taking a Kool-Aid bath with this. I think Penn State is in the shit house right now, and needs to get its act together. But we all have to be as realistic about this team’s positives as we are about the negatives. There’s a load of talent heading into 2008. No one can deny that. I’m not ready to make a prediction of how many games Penn State will win, or who they’ll beat. But Penn State has a great shot to do good things in 2008, without Sean Lee, and those were just a few reasons why. So don't panic.

Yeah, I forgot about the Chris Bell thing, too... and the Chris Baker and Phil Taylor stuff that was not far off. Last Spring was really one to forget. Luckily, the football team helped all of us do just that. Notice also that I didn't mention Josh Hull anywhere in there. That was because, well, none of us thought he would be the starter last season.

It's a different feeling around the program now. Let's keep our fingers crossed.


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On the road again

◊ Ok folks, I'm off for the rest of the week and weekend. I get to enjoy the truly unique drive from the Beltway to the Parkway, with a little road known as the NJ Turnpike, in between. So if you don't hear from me for a few days, you'll know why. I will still try to post here and there, depending on time and mood. When I get back, it will be full steam ahead with brand new Penn State Football Preview 2009 posts and an absolutely exciting run up to the Blue White Game, a mere 17 days away!

Spring football... love it!

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Spring practice update

◊ I'll be leaving town Wednesday night through Sunday, so posting may be light or non-existent. But right now, I'm still here, and getting more worked up about the Blue White Game. Of course, that means it will probably rain, like every other year I actually get to go. Here's some of today's news from Penn State football:

• Phil and Nate over at BWI love the depth at defensive tackle, but worry a lot about defensive end.

"Penn State returns one of the Big Ten's best defensive tackles from 2008... and the Lions have what appears to be the best depth at defensive tackle in the conference... Penn State entered its 2009 spring practice session with a lot of uncertainty and inexperience at both defensive end positions. "

• Mark at FOS broke down the quarterback position. Yeah, it's been kind of a big deal. We all know that Daryll Clark is the quarterback going into this season, but the race behind him is, surprisingly enough, an issue.

"Observers say [Kevin] Newsome is already showing the traits of a strong team leader. [Matt] McGloin is a walk-on who is not nearly as mobile as the other two QBs but is said to have surprising arm strength."

I'd put money down that McGloin will see some decent playing time during mop-up duty, especially if Newsome splits some series with Clark. But it's still early, and we can't predict anything right now.

• Finally, a bit off-topic from Penn State spring ball, but still interesting. Tom Dienhart ranked the Big Ten football coaches. You can draw your own conclusions. But let's just say, I disagree with his list.

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Monday linkage: Blog Wars, hoops and helmets

◊ This past weekend gave us a plethora of Penn State news, none of which (unfortunately) is of much importance. Still, it was a fun-filled couple of days, and who doesn't need a little Penn State pick-me-up on a Monday? Here's what you may have missed...

• NWO looks back at the 2009 basketball season, and grades the team. Talor Battle got an A-, but there's an explanation:

"Just after almost singlehandedly leading his team to a win in East Lansing, Battle hit 7 of 38 shots in losses to Michigan, Wisconsin, and Purdue."

• In Blog Wars news, there was a really fun spat between Boiled Sports and the Penn State blogosphere. No, I wasn't one of them, since I don't cover much basketball. But it was really a hoot to watch from the sidelines...

First, the BS post that started it all:

"But hooray for PSU, I guess! Their championship tonight goes in the same trophy case as Purdue's extremely-important Sun Bowl and Motor City Bowl trophies.

Yeh for mediocrity."

Then, the rebuttals, beginning with HHV:

"BS’s mindless drivel proceeds to mock PSU fans for celebrating their first-ever postseason tournament championship and paints the entire fanbase as “delusional” as if we suddenly believe that a Final Four berth is going to happen next year."

RUTS (via BSD):

"there is nothing more deliciously ironic than having a Purdue Boilermaker fan lecture you on the topic of irrelevance. After all, Purdue is the school most people can't remember when trying to name all eleven Big Ten conference members."

• In football news... Ha! I was right. Bob Flounders this weekend confirmed what I suspected two months ago:

"There were few surprises. Senior Knowledge Timmons started at the one cornerback spot opposite A.J. Wallace..."

It wouldn't have been a surprise if you read this blog, Bob.

• CFN breaks down the Big Ten football schedules for 2009 (PSU comes in at a pathetic No. 11), then rehashes an annual plea (not just from CFN) for the league to start playing a round-robin format, since Notre Dame is too much of a pussy to join the conference.

"...at least everyone gets a shot in the round-robin format. It would be even better for the Big Ten since a ten game conference schedule would allow for an equal number of home games for every team. It would also mean that no one could duck the big boys anymore."

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Spring practice trucking along

◊ Unless you have 24/7 access to the Penn State football program – living 3.5 hours away, I don't – you can only go off the reports from beat writers and scouting sites. So, since we can't go and actually watch the team practice, let's see what those close to the team have to say this week.

• First off, in news that might not, hopefully not turn into real news later, the Pittsburgh Trib (HT: BSD) is reporting that PSU commit QB Paul Jones is opening up to other schools. He's not decommitting from PSU, but he's not yet ready to buy us a ring.

• Phil over at BWI has his usually good Inside Look. He talks about Sean Lee and his linebacking cohort. The spring practice schedule is very detailed, and worth a read. Also, Phil points out that guys like Devon Still and Andrew Quarless are turning heads.

• FOS reminds us that Joe Paterno is a living, breathing competitor, despite contrary conceptions. They report that he's "been on a rampage since that USC game." Well, no shit, Sherlock. He should be. I would hope he'd be.

• Phil and Nate delve into the curious case of the offensive line. While there's still some worry about replacing a PSU record three All-Big Ten linemen on that front, the BWI staff report that confidence is growing exponentially. See what happens when you actually go out and recruit?

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

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Spring practice updates

◊ Not only is spring practice officially underway in Happy Valley, it's about 60 degrees here in Northern Virginia, which is making me just crazy to get out and watch some football. Here's some of the latest updates on Penn State football, with only FOUR weeks until the Blue White Game.

The two biggies, Blue White Illustrated and Fight On State, have been gushing with spring practice stuff this week, yet it's still not enough for us!

• In Thursday's Inside Look (BWI - Phil's Inside Look 3/26) BWI breaks down their own two-deep depth chart following the first day's workouts. FOS took its own crack at the two-deep, looking at the defense (Def. 2-deep) and offense (Off. 2-deep) separately.

• One thing to note, which may seem small but isn't, is the movement of Mike Zordich. Phil at BWI had Zordich at fullback, which is where we were told for months he would be. FOS's breakdown of the two-deep didn't even go into the fullbacks.

But in FOS's first day report from yesterday, Zordich is now working out where we all hoped and expected he would, at linebacker (FOS - First day report 3/26). That was his natural position coming out of high school.

In his place at fullback, the staff moved Shaine Thompson from linebacker.

• True frosh Gerald Hodges is out sick, probably with mono (FOS - First day report 3/26).

• This afternoon, following practice, a formal spring depth chart could be released, but no one knows for sure. Check back here later to see!

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Picking apart a Big Ten spring preview

◊ We're nearing the Ides of March, which means spring football is on its way.

Today, CFN released its Big Ten spring preview. As expected, Penn State should be one of the top two favorites to win the Big Ten title, again.

The writer, Pete Fiutak, knows as we do, that Penn State runs in cycles.

"Penn State usually needs a year or two to build up the program for a huge run, and last year was that big season. However, the Big Ten is average and is there for the taking."

This is true, when looking back on Penn State football under Joe Paterno. But Penn State is slowly morphing back into the beast it was in the first three decades of the Paterno administration. Town time between title runs was shorter, usually lasting only one year. A two-season rebuilding cycle was a disappointment.

What does Fiu think could be the biggest difference for Penn State this year?

"Sean Lee is back … soon. Penn State might suffer some major losses on defense, losing Aaron Maybin, Maurice Evans, Josh Gaines, Tyrell Sales, and the entire secondary, but it gets back, arguably, the best linebacker in college football."

...and not a minute too soon. Lee will still sit out this spring, but that's only because he doesn't need the work. The staff would much rather be 100 percent sure his ACL is healed, so he can go all out during the regular season. Last year's linebackers were very good, but this year is lining up to be a killer campaign.

Then there's what we used to think was the apocalypse: Pat Devlin transferred. It's not so scary anymore, with Kevin Newsome already working out with the team. Some have even said he's a better quarterback now than Daryll Clark was in 2007. But there is still worry surrounding the quarterback situation, and it doesn't have anything to do with the players. Rather, that the staff will keep the offense under wraps, to protect Clark from getting hurt, with no proven backup.

"Devlin bailed, transferring to Delaware, meaning that Newsome has to prove he can handle the work this April. If he can’t, the offense might have to be more conservative to keep Clark from getting popped."

As for the schedule, and season goals, there's no reason for Penn State to fall back into mediocrity. In a projected down year in the Big Ten, this could be a great opportunity for Penn State to pad its recent success by feasting on a wounded conference. That's not to say it will be a cake walk. There's always the annual "Slugfest":

"Penn State will be favored in every game until the early November game against Ohio State, which will be a toss up. The fly in the ointment could be the regular season-ender at Michigan State, but if Penn State wants to win a title, that’s a game it needs to come up with."

I'll admit, I'm very much scared by that trip to East Lansing. Mark D'Antonio didn't like how Penn State kept pouring it on in last year's blowout (even though Michigan State should have just tackled better), and you can bet he'll have his team ready to spring a trap. Even worse, if Michigan State doesn't do well next season, and comes into the finale with nothing to lose, Penn State better watch out.

Some other mentions of Penn State in other team capsules:

Iowa's spring attitude going forward is all about... Penn State?

"September 26... Whether or not the Hawkeyes can get to the Rose Bowl might be figured out on September in the Big Ten opener … in Happy Valley... the team needs to get ready for the revenge game against Penn State first. Iowa likely can’t win the title without coming away with the win, so everything about spring ball, and the opening three games... has to be about preparing for the Nittany Lions."

The conference's newest annual headliner... Ohio State vs. Penn State?

"Outside of a road trip to Penn State in early November, Ohio State will be the favorite in every other game, so if it can pull off the win over the Trojans, a 9-0 start is almost a lock before dealing with the Nittany Lions."

Illinois: Home for the holidays, or BCS title game... you're pick.
Indiana: The most optimistic team ever coming off a 3-9 season.
Iowa: Could turn into Penn State, ca. 2003.
Michigan: Could turn into Penn State, ca. 2004.
Michigan State: A transition year, but should remain competitive.
Minnesota: Can't play well for just most of the season.
Northwestern: Could be better long-term than it was under Randy Walker.
Ohio State: Give Terrelle Pryor more time to throw, period.
Purdue: Not yet, Boilers fans. But Hope is building. (pun totally intended)
Wisconsin: Tons of losses from a mediocre team isn't all bad.

CFN: Big Ten spring preview (link)

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Projected 2009 spring depth chart

I know it's very, very early, but here's what we can sort of expect going into spring practice. Penn State has a bunch of really good players coming back, which makes it all the more difficult to tell who will take over once we get into summer workouts. Here's my projected spring depth chart:

*Notes: Jerome Hayes will probably play a stand-up defensive end position, similar to what he was doing the past two seasons before he was hurt. Andrew Dailey is rumored to be moving to safety, but he might end up staying at linebacker. I put Graham Zug as the backup punt return specialist because Joe Paterno usually likes to have one white guy with good hands available.

	First_Team_(Off.)_	Second_Team______	Reserves____________________
QB	D. Clark, rSr.	K. Newsome, Fr.	M. McGloin, rFr.
RB	E. Royster, rJr.	S. Green, rSo.	B. Carter, r.Jr./B. Beachum, So.
FB	J. Suhey, rSo.	M. Zordich
TE	M. Shuler, rSr.	A. Quarless, Sr.	A. Szczerba, rSo./J. Ditto, rSo.
WR	D. Moye, rSo.	C. Powell, rSo.
WR	G. Zug, rJr.	J. Brown, Fr.
WR	B. Brackett, rJr.	J. McDonald, rSr.	A.J. Price, rFr.
LT	D. Pannell, So.	N. McCormack, Sr.	E. Shrive, Fr.
LG	J.B. Walton, rSo.	M. Stankiewitch, rFr.	Q. Barham, rSo.
OC	S. Wisniewski, So.	D. Klopacz, rJr.	M. Stankiewitch, rFr.
RG	L. Eliades, rJr.	J. Troutman, rSo.	Q. Barham, rSo.
RT	D. Landolt, rSr.	E. Shrive, Fr.	M. Farrell, rFr.
	First_Team_(Def.)_	Second_Team______	Reserves____________________
DE	J. Crawford, So.	K. Latham, rSo.	T. Golarz, rSr.
DT	J. Odrick, Sr.	A. Koroma, rJr.	C. Okoli, rSo.
DT	O. Ogbu, rJr..	T. McEowen, rJr.	D. Still, rSo./B. Ware, rFr.
DE	E. Lattimore, rSo.	J. Hayes*, rSr.	J. Stewart, rSo.
LB	N. Bowman, rJr.	B. Gbadyu, rJr.	M. Yancich, rFr.
MB	J. Hull, rSr.	C. Colasanti, Jr.	M. Mauti, So.
LB	S. Lee, rSr.	N. Stupar, rSo.	A. Dailey*, rSo.
CB	A.J. Wallace, Sr.	D. Thomas, Fr.	D. Lynn, So./D. Thomas, Fr.
S	D. Astorino, rSo.	G. Hodges, Fr.
S	N. Sukay, rSo.	C. Jeffries, rJr.
CB	K. Timmons*, rSr.	J. Alfreno, rJr.	D. Lynn, So./S. Morris, Fr.
	Special_Teams____	Alternates________	_____________________________
PK	A. Fera, Fr.	C. Wagner, rJr.
P	J. Boone, Sr.	R. Breen, rSo
KR	C. Powell, rSo.	A.J. Wallace, Sr.
PR	D. Lynn, So.	G. Zug*, rJr.
LS	A. Pitz, rSr.

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Penn State football 2009 roster

◊ ***NOTE: THIS ROSTER IS OUTDATED. PLEASE VISIT THE NEW ROSTER.***

Now that recruiting season is over (well, it's never really over), we can get a feel for what this year's Penn State football team will look like. I went ahead and put together a completely up-to-date team roster, including the newest freshmen. Here's your 2009 squad:

Quarterbacks_(Jersey_No.)_____	Yr./El._	HT/WT__	Hometown_/_School_____________
Daryll Clark (17)	rSr./Sr.	6'2"/235	Youngstown(OH)/Ursuline
Matt McGloin (11)	So./Fr.	6'1"/190	Scranton/West Scranton
Kevin Newsome (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'3"/215	Portsmouth(VA)/Churchland
Running_Backs_(Jersey No.)_	Yr./Elig.	HT/WT__	Hometown_/_School_____________
Larry Federoff (FB 44)	rSr./Sr.	5'11"/237	Aliquippa/Hopewell
Evan Royster (RB 22)	Sr./Jr.	6'1"/211	Fairfax(VA)/Westfield
Brent Carter (RB 32)	Sr./Jr.	6'2"/211	Pottstown/Pottsgrove
Stephfon Green (RB 21)	Jr./So.	5'10"/194	Bronx(NY)/JFK
Joe Suhey (FB 37)	Jr./So.	6'1"/220	Deerfield(IL)/Loyola Ac.
Brandon Beachum (RB 25)	So./So.	6'0"/221	Youngst'n(OH)/Cardinal Mooney
Mike Zordich (FB 31)	So./Fr.	6'1"/236	Canfield(OH)/Cardinal Mooney
Curtis Dukes (RB N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'2"/235	Philadelphia/IndianRiver
Wide_Receivers_(Jersey No.)_	Yr./Elig.	HT/WT__	Hometown_/_School_____________
James McDonald (8)	rSr./Sr.	6'2"/205	Washington(DC)/Dunbar
Kevin Cousins (9)	rSr./Sr.	6'3"/207	Richmond(VA)/Huguenot
Patrick Mauti (84)	rSr./Sr.	5'10""/189	New Orleans(LA)/Mandeville
Devin Fentress (20)	rSr./Sr.	5'10"/174	Newark(VA)/Western Branch
Brett Brackett (83)	Sr./Jr.	6'6"/234	New Brunswick(NJ)/Lawrence
Graham Zug (5)	Sr./Jr.	6'2"/182	Manheim/Manheim
Ryan Gmerek (20)	Jr./So.	5'8"/186	Houtzdale/Moshannon Valley
Derek Moye (6)	Jr./So.	6'5"/202	Rochester/Rochester
Chaz Powell (12)	Jr./So.	6'1"/201	New Freedom/Susquehannock
Tyler Ahrenhold (38)	Jr./So.	6'0"/182	Blue Bell/Chestnut Hill Ac.
A.J. Price (14)	So./Fr.	6'4"/170	Reston(VA)/South Lakes
J.D. Mason (26)	So./Fr.	6'4"/206	Philipsburg/Philipsburg-Osceola
Justin Brown (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'3"/209	Wilmington(DE)/Concord
Brandon Felder (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'3"/165	OxonHill(MD)/OxonHill
Shawney Kersey (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'2"/180	Woodbury(NJ)/Woodbury
Devon Smith (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	5'8"/145	Waldorf(MD)/Westlake
Christian Kuntz (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'4"/190	CampHill/Trinity
Tight_Ends_(Jersey No.)_	Yr./Elig.	HT/WT__	Hometown_/_School_____________
Mickey Shuler (82)	rSr./Sr.	6'4"/250	Enola/East Pennsboro
Andrew Quarless (10)	Sr./Sr.	6'5"/255	Uniondale(NY/Uniondale
Andrew Szczerba (80)	Jr./So.	6'6"/262	Wilmington(DE)/Salesianum
Jon Ditto (88)	Jr./So.	6'3"/227	Monroeville(PA)/Gateway
Mark Wedderburn (86)	So./Fr.	6'6"/235	Upper Darby(PA)/Cardinal O'Hara
Offensive_Line_(Jersey No.)_	Yr./Elig.	HT/WT__	Hometown_/_School_____________
Dennis Landolt (T 73)	rSr./Sr.	6'4"/303	Burlington(NJ)/Holy Cross
Andrew Pitz (LS 40)	rSr./Sr.	6'3"/238	PBettendorf(IA)/Bettendorf
Lou Eliades (T/G 77)	Sr./Jr.	6'4"/315	Ocean(NJ)/Ocean Twp
Doug Klopacz (C 68)	Sr./Jr.	6'3"/287	Hasbrouck Hts(NJ)/St. Jo.'s Reg.
J.B. Walton (G 65)	Jr./So.	6'3"/297	Indiana Head(MD)/Lackey
Quinn Barham (G 67)	Jr./So.	6'3"/287	Durham(NC)/Hillside
Johnnie Troutman (G 74)	Jr./So.	6'4"/315	Trenton(NJ)/Pemberton Twp.
Stefen Wisniewski (G/C 61)	So./So.	6'3"/294	PBridgeville/Pittsburgh Cen. Cath.
DeOn'tae Pannell (T 75)	So./So.	6'5"/295	Southfield(MI)/Groves
Mike Farrell (T/G 78)	So./Fr.	6'6"/279	Pittsburgh/Shadyside Academy
Andrew Radakovich (T/G 70)	So./Fr.	6'5"/296	Steubenville(OH)/Steubenville
Matt Stankiewitch (G/C 54)	So./Fr.	6'3"/295	Orwigsburg/Blue Mtn. Ac.
James Terry (T/G 60)	So./Fr.	6'3"/331	New Castle(DE)/Brandywine
Eric Shrive (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'7"/290	Scranton/WestScranton
Mark Arcidiacono (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'5"/285	Philadelphia/St.Joe's
Ty Howle (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'2"/290	Bunn(NC)/Bunn
Adam Gress (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'7"/290	WestMifflin/WestMifflin
Nate Cadogan (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'6"/250	Portsmouth(OH)/Portsmouth
Frank Figueroa (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'4"/275	Alexandria(VA)/Edison
John Urschel (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'3"/275	Buffalo(NY)/Canisius
Defensive_Line_(Jersey No.)_	Yr./Elig.	HT/WT__	Hometown_/_School_____________
Tom Golarz (DE 39)	rSr./Sr.	6'1"/244	Bloomington(IN)/North
Tom McEowen (DT 55)	Sr./Jr.	6'4"/277	Feasterville/Neshaminy
Jared Odrick (DT 91)	Sr./Sr.	6'5"/305	Lebanon/Lebanon
Ollie Ogbu (DT 85)	Sr./Jr.	6'1"/289	Staten Island(NY)/Milford Ac.
Abe Koroma (DT 95)	Sr./Jr.	6'3"/315	Washington/Milton Hershey
Kevion Latham (44 DE)	Jr./So.	6'2"/252	Greensboro(NC)/Page
Eric Latimore (DE 56)	Jr./So.	6'6"/265	Middletown(DE)/Middlet'n
Johnathan Stewart (DE 51)	Jr./So.	6'2"/236	N. Huntingdon/Norwin
Devon Still (DT 71)	Jr./So.	6'5"/302	Wilmington(DE)/Howard
Chima Okoli (DE 92)	Jr./So.	6'4"/298	Virginia Beach(VA)/Salem
Jack Crawford (DE 81)	So./So.	6'5"/245	Longport(NJ)/St. Augustine
Mikel Berry (DL 94)	So./Fr.	6'2"/255	Upper Arlington(OH)/Up. Arling.
Pete Massaro (DL)	So./Fr.	6'4"/250	Newtown Square/Marple Newt'n
Brandon Ware (DT 99)	So./Fr.	6'3"/367	Harrisburg/Harrisburg
Sean Stanley (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'1"/247	Gaithersburg(MD)/Gaithersburg
Gary Gilliam (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'7"/245	Hershey/MiltonHershey
Jordan Hill (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'3"/290	Steelton/Highspire
Linebackers_(Jersey No.)_	Yr./Elig.	HT/WT__	Hometown_/_School_____________
Sean Lee (OLB 45)	rSr./Sr.	6'2"/235	Pittsburgh/Upper St. Clair
Jerome Hayes (OLB/DE 5)	rSr./Sr.	6'2"/245	Bayonne(NJ)/Bayonne
Josh Hull (ILB 43)	rSr./Sr.	6'3"/239	State College/Penns Valley
Navorro Bowman (OLB 18)	Sr./Jr.	6'1"/228	Suitland(MD)/(Suitland
Bani Gbadyu (OLB 15)	Sr./Jr.	6'1"/223	Gaithersburg(MD) Quince Orchard
Josh Matzkin (OLB 30)	Sr./Jr.	6'0"/219	Tampa(FL)/Berkeley
Chris Colasanti (ILB 53)	Jr./Jr.	6'2"/240	Leonard(MI)/Brother Rice
Andrew Dailey (LB/S 13)	Jr./So.	6'2"/228	Massillon(OH)/Washington
Nathan Stupar (OLB 34)	Jr./So.	6'1"/233	State College/State College
Michael Mauti (OLB 42)	So./So.	6'3"/215	Mandeville(LA)/Mandeville
Mike Yancich (LB 33)	So./Fr.	6'2"/224	Washington/Trinity
Shaine Thompson (LB 22	Jr./So.	6'0"/214	Bronx(NY)/JFK
Brian Irvin (LB 52)	So./Fr.	6'3"/211	Orrtanna/Gettysburg
James Van Fleet (LB 54)	So./Fr.	6'0"/219	Williamsport/Loyalsock
Glenn Carson (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'3"/220	Manahawkin(NJ)/Southern
Gerald Hodges (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'3"/210	Paulsboro(NJ)/Paulsboro
Defensive_Backs_(Jersey No.)_	Yr./Elig.	HT/WT__	Hometown_/_School_____________
A.J. Wallace (CB 1)	Sr./Sr.	6'1"/190	Waldorf(MD)/McDonough
Knowledge Timmons (S 4)	rSr./Sr.	5'10"/187	York/William Penn
Jesse Alfreno (CB 35)	Sr./Jr.	5'11"/215	Grove City/Grove City
Cedric Jeffries (S 29)	Sr./Jr.	6'2"/215	Somers Pt.(NJ)/Egg Harbor
Shelton McCullough (CB 16)	Sr./Jr.	6'0"/186	Randallstown(MD)/Randallstown
Nick Sukay (S 26)	Jr./So.	6'1"/206	Mount Pleasant/Greensb'g C.C.
Drew Astorino (S 28)	Jr./So.	5'10"/191	Edinboro/General McLane
D'Anton Lynn (DB 8)	So./So.	6'1"/190	Celina(TX)/Celina
Kyle Johnson (S 36)	So./Fr.	6'0"/187	Landenberg/Avon Grove
Evan Lewis (DB 12)	So./Fr.	5'10"/167	Gettysburg(PA)/Gettysburg
David Keisling (S 19)	So./Fr.	5'11"/191	Clarks Summit/Abington Hts
Jacob Fagnano (DB 27)	So./Fr.	6'0"/198	Williamsport/Williamsport
Sean Luchnick (DB 40)	So./Fr.	6'0"/187	Helotes(TX)/Sandra Day O'Connor
Derrick Thomas (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'0"/173	Greenbelt(MD)/E.Roosevelt
Stephon Morris (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	5'9"/175	Greenbelt(MD)/E.Roosevelt
Curtis Drake (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'0"/170	Philadelphia/West Phila.Cath.
Ste. ObengAgyapong (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	5'11"/185	Cheektowaga(NY)/JFK
Malcolm WIllis (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'1"/185	IndianHead(MD)/Lackey
Darrell Givens (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'1"/178	IndianHead(MD)/Lackey
Mike Wallace (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	5'10"/185	Olney(MD)/Good Counsel
Kickers_(Jersey No.)________	Yr./Elig.	HT/WT__	Hometown_/_School_____________
Jeremy Boone (P 41)	rSr./Sr.	5'9"/178	Mechanicsburg/Mech'bg Area
Collin Wagner (K 36)	Sr./Jr.	5'9"/170	State College/State College Area
Ryan Breen (P 49)	Jr./So.	6'2"/194	Clarkston(MI)/Clarkston
David Soldner (K 28)	So./Fr.	6'1"/205	Lititz/Manheim Township
Anthony Fera (N/A)	Fr./Fr.	6'2"/230	Houston(TX)/PiusX

*If I made any mistakes, or typos, please let me know. This was very tedious, so I'm sure I lost focus at one point or another. Thanks.

Edits so far: Tom McEowen; Eric Shrive; Devon Smith

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Blue White Post Game

Stephon Green, Stephon Green, Stephon Green. Ok, so I'm not as excited as the rest of the Penn State fan base, but it was really nice to see someone break a long touchdown run for once. However, things weren't quite as crisp as I hoped it would be.

There were no interceptions, which, after last season was a big positive. But it seemed like the defensive line, as talented as those guys are, got through to the quarterbacks a bit too quickly. I really hope it wasn't a problem with the offensive line, but rather that Penn State's defensive line is just that good.

The wide receivers were as good as advertised, with a standard spring game double reverse wide receiver pass (as I predicted). I was very pleased to see Andrew Szczerba's performance. It should make us all that much more comfortable, should Andrew Quarless not return.

And finally, a brief comment on the quarterbacks. Penn State needs to use both Clark and Devlin in 2008. Clark still needs a lot of work on his arm, but offers the running ability every one's talking about. Devlin has twice the touch Anthony Morelli ever had, and can actually survive a post-game interview without saying "...you know?" 50 times. Again, no interceptions was a huge stat.

So that's it. Now all we can do is wait for the preview magazines to hit the shelves in a few weeks. I hate this time of year. It's the farthest point from football. Let's hope the team gets its act together over the next three months, hits the books and the weight room, and stays out of trouble.

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Blue White Game Preview

Here's your pretty lame excuse for a game preview. I'm not really expecting much from the coaching staff tomorrow. Sure, they'll throw in the usual double-reverse wide-receiver pass to get the crowd excited. But don't look forward to anything resembling the real offense Penn State will use in 2008. With that, here's some names and units to look out for in the 2008 edition of the Blue White Game.

Some big names you want to see play, but won't: Sean Lee, Phil Taylor, Knowledge Timmons, Andrew Quarless, Jerome Hayes, Jared Odrick, and Chris Baker. I'm not even mentioning Chris "The Chef" Bell for obvious reasons.

A unit that will disappoint: The linebackers.

A unit that will surprise: The secondary.

The 2008 Aric Heffelfinger* Award will go to: Ryan Gmerek. This selection was based on no research, data or even a hunch. I just picked a no-name schmo from the roster who will probably never see the field again. No offense to him, I hope he does someday.

*Aric Heffelfinger burst onto the scene in the 2002 Blue White Game, as he rushed for 92 yards, highlighted by a 51-yard jaunt. He out shined some guy named Johnson, and then was never heard from again.

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It's 70 degrees, cloudy, and all I want to do is watch some Penn State football

Not too long ago, I said the posting on ZN might take a dip because of the off season and how boring it can be. Well, we all know where that went. From the Tyrelle Pryor thing to Joe Paterno's contract, and Chris "Cooking Knife" Bell, we just can't stay away. I almost wish none of this were going, if for no other reason than I just want a freaking break.

But I know that will certainly not happen. No, this Paterno contract will loom dark over Penn State for the remainder of 2008. Paterno and the Nittany Lions could be standing high on the podium at the Orange Bowl, accepting the BCS National Championship Trophy in January, and the first question to come out will be, "Coach, will you step down now?" What I'm almost dreading more, is if Penn State loses a game it shouldn't, or worse, to possibly the worst Michigan team in 40 years. It will be worse than the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse riding down Mount Nittany laying slaughter to Happy Valley on their way up the hill to Old Main.

I'm not going to add anything else today. I'm basically taking off from now until Monday. I have no idea what will happen before the Blue White Game, hopefully nothing. We all just need to calm down, count back from 10 (like that actually ever works) and breathe. I might even break out the old game tapes from 2005. Just remember though, if this whole Spread HD crap works out, it will be something to take our minds off all the other bullshit being caused by Paterno and Graham Cracker Spanier.

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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.

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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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Go to hell, CFN

It's happening again. Remember last spring, when everyone was saying that 2007 would be "the year?" You know, when Beano Cook said Penn State could win the National Championship? Well, it's starting already for 2008. I love PSU football, and deep down, I believe every year is a good chance to go undefeated. But to be so premature is just rediculous. In the quest for the most hits, CollegeFootballNews has jumped at the chance to proclaim PSU has a great chance to go bowling in Pasadena next January. The last time PSU went undefeated when it was supposed to was in 1994.

Spring Practice Begins: March 24 Game: April 19
The early spring buzz ... All the talk is about everything other than football. The off-the-field stuff has taken center stage with WR Chris Bell and starting DT Phil Taylor suspended because of academic issues. DT Chris Baker and LB Navorro Bowman were booted off the team for the time being after being charged with felony assault after a fight last fall, with CB Knowledge Timmons being charged with misdemeanor disorderly conduct for a problem after the fight. Top safety Anthony Scirrotto agreed to a plea bargain after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor charge of defiant trespass in an issue last April. If that wasn't enough, everyone is talking about what the succession plan is going to be after Joe Paterno decides he's done, while the Nittany Lion nation continues to hold its breath as it hopes beyond all reasonable hope that super-recruit Terrelle Pryor will sign and be the 2008 starting quarterback.

When was the last time PSU started a true freshman quarterback? Ummm. Exactly. I know the coaches and the school want to win, and soon, but there's hardly a chance Pryor would play. I think he would gladly take the redshirt, if he was promised to see playing time next to Devlin in '09 and '10. But who knows what he'll do. I sure don't.

The big spring question is ... Is there a ceiling on the 2008 team? The 2007 team blasted Wisconsin and collapsed against a motivated Michigan State, but for the most part it beat the teams it was supposed to, and lost to the better teams (Michigan, Illinois and Ohio State). The offense needs more pop, the defense needs to play up to its talent level game-in-and-game-out, and for a full sixty minutes, and there can't be any gaffes. It's all about gearing up for a huge midseason stretch with four road games in five weeks (Purdue, Wisconsin, Ohio State and Iowa) after a home date against Illinois. The home oasis? Michigan.

When was the last time PSU beat Ohio State in the 'Shoe. Ummm. My parents were newlyweds and Grease was the newest box office hit. Unless PSU plays out-of-this-world better, and OSU plays way below its potential, there's at least one win PSU won't get. And as I've said before, this will be just another "if-we-can't-beat-Michigan-this-year" for the ump-teenth time. So, yet again, it will all come down to Michigan.

The most important position to watch is ... Quarterback. Anthony Morelli was the poster boy for Underwhelming Quarterbacks of America, but he wasn't bad and led the way to a few good seasons. Can Daryll Clark make the offense more exciting? Yes. Can he throw? No. Pat Devlin could quickly take over the No. 1 spot if he's consistent this spring, but Clark, because of his mobility, is an X factor. The team might live through his mistakes to go with his personality and potential.

Even though Paterno has no real loyalty to either quarterback right now, I think you'll see Devlin as the "starter" with Clark as the "starter II." Everyone, including me, loved the wrinkle PSU threw in by having Clark run the ball ala M-Rob style. The biggest question was "why the hell is Morelli even out there." I'll argue that later. But if Devlin and Clark are used in the same package, teams would actually have no freaking clue who will get the snap, as Devlin can run well, too.

Spring attitude... Is it possible to be a sleeper? Ohio State will be everyone's preseason Big Ten title pick, Michigan will get the spotlight with all the changes, and Wisconsin might be the thinking man's pick for the title, but Penn State could turn out to be strong enough to go to Pasadena. The defense will be stellar, the receiving corps might be the best in America, and the O line should be a strength. If the quarterback situation is settled early on, then shhhhhhhh, this will be the league's under-the-radar team to keep an eye on.

Fuck you, Pete Fiutak. I love your analysis, your unbiased approach, and consider CFN a daily must-read. But Fuck You!

Email ZN: ZombieNationPSU@gmail.com Please take a moment to support ZN, by visiting some of our sponsors, or purchase one of those nifty shirts from ZN Apparel at the top-right of this page.

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Worst time of year

I hate this. There's nothing going on. Spring practice isn't really that exciting until the Spring games, and Pryor isn't getting off his ass and committing to anyone. Paterno and Co. seem to become more secretive each day, and probably won't budge on this retirement thing for at least a few more weeks. Shit, the NFL draft isn't eve for another month-and-a-half. Christ.

With that said, posting will be spotty the next few weeks. In that time, there could be some small cosmetic changes to ZN, including the addition of ZN Apparel. I've set up a shop in which you can buy exclusive ZN wear. It should be pretty cool. For now, check out the watered-down version of ZN Apparel by visiting the link in the right-hand column of ZN's home page.

So hopefully there's good news the next few weeks. Maybe by this time next month, Penn State will have a decent succession plan, and Terrelle Pryor will have committed to Oregon. Calm down, I'll explain that one soon enough. But for now, go play some NCAA 08. We all could use some right about now.

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