Season Predictions: The "Trap Game" That Should Never Have Been That Close

2. The "Trap Game" That Should Never Have Been That Close?

Greg's Take--I think the unexpectedly close game this year--much like in 2005--will be Penn State's trip to Northwestern on October 31. As history tells us, Penn State always plays tighter on the road, especially in the week following a "big game." In this case, the trip to Northwestern comes on the heals of a trip to the Big House to play an improved Michigan team. I don't know what it is about Michigan, but even in their "down years" they always seem to play Penn State tough. If this is the case, and Michigan is better this year, a big win in Ann Arbor will be followed by a conservative, tight game at Northwestern the following week. Adding to the conservative game plan will be the looming tilt against Ohio State the following week. The only positives for the Northwestern game, and maybe our saving grace, is that the game is slated for a 4:30 p.m. kickoff instead of the dreaded Noon central time games where Penn State always looks like they didn't wake up until the 3rd Quarter. In the end, Penn State will beat Northwestern (something like 31-24), but it should have never been that close.

Pete's Response—I love that choice, but I will have to disagree with you. There is always that game on the road in conference that gives us fits that shouldn’t and it will probably happen again this year. I just don’t think it will be Northwestern. I think we have way to much talent for them, so I will go with Michigan. We crushed them last year, and on paper there is no way we shouldn’t again. They will have a true freshman quarterback, if he is still alive by then, with a receiving core that will make our secondary look like a bunch of All-Americans, and a defense that shouldn’t be able to stop us. Yet, it is Michigan and we will have to fight for every point, and this game will probably come down a late 4th quarter drive. I just hope we have a comfortable enough lead that the referees don’t come in to play.

Greg's Final Word--You're right, I think the Michigan game will be tough because, well, it's Michigan after all. But by that time in the season, Michigan will have played home against Notre Dame, @ Michigan State, and @ Iowa, so we should have a pretty good idea of just how tough the game will be. They'll either be 4-3 having lost all three previously mentioned games, or they'll be 6-1 or 5-2 and we'll know if they've made significant improvements, like most 2nd year Rich Rodriguez teams (see, for example, West Virginia). The other option here is also Minnesota. They could be this year's "Iowa," if they are able to win some games early (like against California at home) and play teams like Penn State and Ohio State close on the road.

Season Predictions: Toughest Regular Season Game?

1. Toughest Regular Season Game (excluding possible bowl games)?

Pete's Take--How can it not be Eastern Illinois? Honestly, what do you know about them? The team probably knows just as much, but there can only be one answer to this question--and that is Ohio State. Penn State and Ohio State are the best two teams in the conference and have been for the past few years. This game like the recent few will probably decide the winner of the Big 10 and who goes to the BCS. On paper this should be a great game that should be another defensive struggle and Penn State may need someone to make a Mark Rubin like play to beat the Buckeyes at home.

Greg's Response--I know Eastern Illinois is the "trendy" pick, but come Pete, go out on a limb for once. Ohio State is clearly the "right answer" which is unusual for a opinion question. (I guess you should blame the question-maker.) The Ohio State game is almost always the "toughest game of the year," but this year there is one factor that will make it even tougher: a 4:30 p.m. kickoff instead of the customary 7 or 8 p.m. kickoffs of the past. What’s the difference this year? This year's game will be played in “November” and apparently the Big Ten does not allow night games in November because of "the weather." (Are you kidding me???) What a bailout for the Buckeyes. Beaver Stadium is one of the toughest places to place under normal conditions, but I would argue there's no place tougher than Beaver Stadium AT NIGHT. An 8 o'clock kickoff would have favored Penn State even more, now the earlier kickoff will only benefit Ohio State. The only other game I considered here was @ Michigan State to finish the year, which would have been even tougher if it's for an undefeated season, Big Ten Championship, or BCS Championship birth.

Pete's Final Word--I know I took the easy way out with Ohio State. I agree that Michigan State could be tough, but I don't know if they are quite ready to be in Penn State or Ohio State's class. Illinois could be tough early because they have a strong offense and early in the year they may have a shot at our defense before it comes together.

Basketball Team Gets The Message Loud-And-Clear

Basic Info: Just today, the Men's Basketball Team announced its 2009 non-conference schedule. Highlighting the slate are contests on the road @ Virginia (ACC-Big Ten Challenge), @ Temple, and a neutral tournament which includes the likes of Miami (Fla.), South Carolina, Davidson, and South Florida. The Nits also have at least one marquee home game before Jan. 1 when Virginia Tech visits the BJC on Dec. 12. Finally, perennial mid-major contenders American U. and and Robert Morris also make the trip to Happy Valley.

The Key Statistic: Most importantly, out of next year's opponents only one--Penn--was in the RPI's bottom 1/3 of teams, compared to last year's schedule which featured approximately six teams in the bottom 1/3 of the RPI rankings. And frankly, Penn is an Philly school, so I'll give that game a "pass" since we're still trying to break into that area in our recruiting and fan-support efforts.

Areas For Improvement: There are still two areas where the staff could improve the schedule:

1. First, there is no reason why we should not try to resume a home-and-home rotation with Pitt, or at least another high-profile Pennsylvania program like Villanova. (Sorry, Temple doesn't count).
2. Second, we should try to schedule another "national" program like we did before, even if it means we need to play it on the road with no guaranteed return trip to Happy Valley. (See, for example, Kentucky, N.C. State, Texas A&M, Rutgers, and North Carolina). Possibilities? How about Syracuse, Notre Dame, Tennessee, or Cal?

Final Thought: In the end, this schedule is a HUGE upgrade compared to last year and should continue to improve and grow in terms of strength every year that the program itself grows stronger under Coach DeChellis.

Position Battles To Watch #6: Special Teams

Topic: Who SHOULD and who WILL win these position battles?

6. Special Teams: Up for grabs except at punter?

Greg's Take--What we're accustomed to being a very stable part of the team is suddenly in doubt. Just think how spoiled we have been for the last 4 years: Kevin Kelly 4 year starter, Derrick Williams 3 year return specialist, etc. Sure the Nits return punter Josh Boone, but even Boone should be pushed by Sophomore Ryan Breen whose leg is clearly stronger than Boone's. In the end, Boone WILL and SHOULD keep his job barring injury simply because he earned it, he proved it, and he's reliable. The coaches can trust Boone. But that's more than I can say about Kicker and Return Specialists.

At kicker, walk-on Collin Wagner is in-line to take over for Kevin Kelly, but hot-shot Freshman Anthony Fera (who was highly recruited and enrolled early in January) is the only scholarship kicker on the roster. Fera clearly has the stronger leg and higher potential, but Wagner is a senior who is, like Boone, the more reliable option at this time. Plus Fera missed an extra point attempt during the Blue-White game. I don't care how inexperienced you are, a scholarship kicker can not miss an extra point under “scrimmage conditions” where there's no block attempted. Wagner SHOULD and WILL win this battle unless Fera makes strides.

Finally, lumping them all together--since Derrick Williams is gone and A.J. Wallace and Chaz Powell might not return kicks now that they are starters--I am hoping to see some freshmen in the return game, especially since we can not risk an injury to guys like Royster, Green, Powell, and Wallace. I want to see some combination of Devon Smith, Derrick Thomas, Darrell Givens, or Curtis Drake at kick returner. Powell will likely see time at kick and punt returner to start the year, but that should change. The Dark Horse for punt returner is Drew Astorino who, like Anthony Scirrotto and Calvin Lowry before him, plays free safety and has reliable hands. In the end, Powell (and some freshman) WILL start the year at KR/PR, but Devon Smith SHOULD be the starter from day one so he can cut his teeth against Akron, Syracuse, and Temple before he has to do it against Iowa under the bright lights.

Pete's Response--I agree with the Wagner assessment that he will probably win the kicking job. I don't think it will be easy, as I expect Fera to come back this summer more relaxed and ready to prove that he deserves the accolades he came in with. Yes he missed an extra point in the Blue-White game, but how nervous do you think he was? Hopefully that got it out of his system. Plus he was still getting used to being away from home; the kid should have been getting ready for prom, not kicking in front of 76,000. He will be fine, but I like the idea of getting him ready with kickoffs or something like that. Wagner will get the nod, but I bet it will be a very short leash.

I hope anything that we don't put Astorino back as punt returner. Not with the athletes that you mentioned. There is too much talent and speed to not put it back there. I would like to see Devon Smith, but I will bet on a red shirt. That leaves Powell or Green and I would be thrilled with either. I will say the smart money is on Powell.

Greg's Final Word--I like the idea of Fera starting with kick offs, so long as he keeps the ball in-bounds. Wagner does not have the leg that Kevin Kelly had, nor Fera has. Short leash? Probably, for everyone involved except for Boone. As for Smith v. Powell or Green, I think it has to be Powell. But I would not bet on a red shirt for Smith, necessarily. The staff brought him in to be a "return specialist" and that means getting him ready from day one, not sitting around on the practice squad running slot-receiver patterns against the first team defense—now there’s a scary thought. This is probably the area of the football team that NO ONE talks about being a huge question mark, while offensive line and the secondary get hammered in every pre-season publication. However, special teams could play an important role and be the difference between 9-3 and 11-1 or 12-0.

Position Battles To Watch #5: Mauti v. Stupar

Topic: Who SHOULD and who WILL win this position battle?

5. Mauti v. Stupar for the Fritz outside linebacker position?

Pete's Take--Goodness I hope it's Sophomore Michael Mauti. I just love his athleticism and what he showed as a true freshman last year. Again, this is no knock on Nate Stupar who is a special teams beast. My concern with him would be as a linebacker he isn't attacking full steam ahead like on special teams. We don't know if he can do that. Mauti went into the game against Michigan last year and helped turn it around. That's right, with all that talent we had on defense, a true freshman went in the game and didn't play scared, he rose to the occasion. Mauti, Lee, and Bowman. WOW!!!

Greg's Response--You could not be more right, Pete. Mauti is just another in the line of great linebackers to come through Linebacker U. Just like Poz, Connor, and Lee all played significant roles and Freshmen and Sophomores, Mauti will be the starting Fritz linebacker by the Iowa game. But I still have concerns--call me crazy--that this conservative staff will find a way to make Mauti earn the job during game time against Akron, Syracuse, and Temple. This means that it's not Stupar that would start day one, play one, but someone like Bani Gbadyu or Josh Hull (who god-bless-his-heart thinks he's going to start next year even, with Lee moving inside to Hull position). But it's got to be Mauti by Iowa, or sooner.

Pete's Final Word—I have no concerns that Hull with be the starter. He will be Lee’s backup and he should be fine with that. He doesn’t have the speed to be in the middle, so I have no idea how they could try him on the outside. Mauti will be too good and he will need to get some time early to get ready for the Big Ten season. My dark horse will be Mike Yancich. He will probably take over for Bowman when he leaves after this season and I think he will show brilliant flashes in the early parts of the year. If nothing else it will hopefully make the transition smoother for next season, when it will be his time to shine.

Position Battles To Watch #4: Still v. Ware v. Okoli

Topic: Who SHOULD win and who WILL win this position battle?

4. Still v. Ware v. Okoli for the final spot in the defensive tackle rotation (along side Odrick, Ogbu, and Koroma)?

Greg's Take--This is probably the toughest position battle to call because a) it's for a “back-up” position in Larry Johnson's vaunted 4-man rotation, and b) it could very well change on a game-to-game basis throughout the season since Devon Still has had injury problems, Brandon Ware has had weight problems, and Chima Okoli is also very inexperienced. In my opinion, this battle will come down to Still v. Ware, with Okoli filling in if Still gets injured and/or Ware can't stay in the rotation because he had one-too-many burgers at Five Guys or slices at Canyon Pizza (I can't believe it's not called Acme Pizza anymore!). Assuming Still is fully recovered and Ware gets down to his target playing weight (315-320 lbs.), the #4 spot SHOULD go to Ware, but I think it WILL go to Still. I believe that Ware is one of those freakish "jumbo athletes" who can dunk a basketball at 350 lbs. He's a bull that you just let loose to create havoc in offensive backfields. But based on experience, Devon Still will likely win this spot certainly to start the year and won't give it up by Iowa unless Ware is so good you just can't keep him off the field.

Pete's Response--I agree that it will go to Still, but disagree that it should go to Ware. Still is going to be a dominate force. I think he will be as good, if not better than, Jared Odrick by the time he graduates. I know that means he has to stay healthy, but look out if he does. This is no knock on Ware--next year will be his time. I will even say that Still won't be battling for 4th in the rotation, but he will be pushing to start by the Iowa game.

Greg's Final Word--WOW, quite a statement about Devon Still. I am just too apprehensive when it comes to injured players, especially those who are coming off of two leg-related injuries and stand at 6'5" 305 lbs. There's no doubt that, absent this apprehension, I would also pick Still to be our #2-3 defensive tackle. But I'm going to have to see it before I believe it. If Still is as good as you think he's going to be, and Ware is as good as I think he's going to be eventually, the future at defensive line has NEVER been brighter, and that’s really saying something. Now all we need is some more depth for the future (paging Shariff Floyd, Evan Hailes, and Daquan Jones... come'on down. You're the next contestants on the Larry Johnson train to the NFL!!!).

Position Battles To Watch #3: Dailey v. Hodges v. Sukay

Topic: Who SHOULD win and who WILL win this position battle?

3. Dailey v. Hodges v. Sukay for the starting strong safety position?

Pete's Take--Boy I would love to say true Freshman Gerald Hodges. I think by the time he is done at Penn State he will be the best safety in the country, but I don't think his time starts yet. After being torched by USC in the Rose Bowl you would think we would need to get a big time hitting safety onto the field. And if we had the two cornerbacks we did last year I would agree, but with the secondary being a big question mark, I don't think we put a freshman as the last line of defense. That leaves Sophomores Andrew Dailey and Nick Sukay. I think Dailey has the best shot because in his two years he has been healthy and learned the system. However, he learned the linebacker position, so how quickly can he adapt to the secondary? That will be the million dollar question and I think he would work out fine there. Instead, I will go with an upset and pick Nick Sukay. Yes, he has yet to stay healthy and we have no idea what we are going to get out of him, but no one could deny his potential when he came in as a freshman. Like Timmons this may be his last chance at a starting position and I expect him to rise to the occasion and take it.

Greg's Response--There's just no way that Sukay gets the starting nod, at least not for the Akron game. Dailey will start the year at strong safety based on experience alone, much like how Mark Rubin did last year. But God help us if Dailey isn't better than Rubin—he better be. Sure Dailey will be the best of the three at helping with run-support, but that's NOT this team's weakness. Strong safety can not continue to be an extra linebacker on the field. If you wanted to do that, just go with a 4-4 and put Gbadyu, Stupar, Yancich, etc. on the field and match up. I think, in the end, if Sukay stays healthy and he realizes the potential that he has, maybe you're right that he'll win the job in September, but Dailey is going to start on day-one. Hodges is really, as you said, the answer to all of our safety issues. He has the speed, agility, athleticism, and cover skills to play both run-support AND pass coverage. My hope is that his early enrollment will put him in a position to push for starting time, but if neither Sukay or Hodges "take the position" from Dailey, we're looking at Mark Rubin version 2.0—and that's potentially a big problem.

Pete's Final Word—I hear what you are saying, but still have a feeling that it will be Sukay. He is not like Rubin, which is a good thing. Maybe on the first depth chart, Joe will put Dailey there, but we both know how little that means in reality. I think Joe even put me as a first string at one time. (tic) I do think Hodges will get a chance to show what he can do in the non-conference games. His best bet is to play so well that the coaches have no choice but to play him.

Stock Report - Offense (6/23)

QBs

Name: Robert Bolden

State: MI

Competition: Michigan St

Star Rankings: Rivals 4 / Scout 4 (4/4)

Chances: Rising 45%

Update: Bolden was rumored to have committed to Michigan State last week. That proved to be false, but he decided to take an official to Michigan State this past weekend. Instead of committing like most thought again, he has decided to take a visit to Penn State this weekend. Though it may be an up hill climb due to the depth chart, the longer this goes, the better is seems to be for the Lions.

Name: Anthony Gonzalez

State: PA

Competition: Florida State, Illinois, Maryland

Stars: 3/3

Chances: Dropping 15%

Update: Gonzalez seems to be favoring schools a little further from home. He is now talking about visiting Oregon. Florida State still seems to lead and Penn State has seemed like they may have moved on.

Name: Paul Jones

State: PA

Competition: Penn State

Stars: 4/5

Chances: 100%

Update: Jones became the second commitment for the Nittany Lions this year. After briefly having second thoughts and making a visit to Pitt, he realized that Penn State was the place for him. He will have a chance to come in right away and compete for the starting job.

Committed Elsewhere:

Barry Brunetti - West Virginia

Pete's Point of View:
Penn State accomplished what they wanted to when P.J. Jones came on board. They would love to land two top flight QB's in this class, but that can be a major challenge. With that said they have put themselves in a real good situation with Robert Bolden and they may be able to pull off a huge upset and snag him.

RBs

Name: Corey Brown

State: PA

Competition: Ohio State, Florida, Rutgers

Stars: 4/4

Chances: Dropping 10%

Update: Brown has been one of the quietest recruits out there. He has taken some visits this spring, but as yet to cut his list down past ten teams. Penn State is still in the mix, but as of now don't seem to be a realistic option.

Name: Braylon Heard (verbal)

State: OH

Competition: West Virginia, Michigan State, Nebraska

Stars: 4/3

Chances: Steady 15%

Update: Heard is planning a trip to West Virginia in the near future and they seem to be the leader. You get the feeling if Penn State wants to get more involved they could. The question is do they want to.

Name: Storm Johnson

State: GA

Competition: LSU, Florida

Stars: 4/3

Chances: Steady 5%

Update: Johnson continues to mention that he would like to visit Penn State, but I doubt that happens. He has long been considered a LSU lean and it would be an expensive trip if he wasn't interested.

Name: Marcus Lattimore

State: SC

Competition: Florida State, Auburn, Alabama, South Carolina

Stars: 5/5

Chances: Dropping 15%

Update: Lattimore had to cancel his visit for this weekend due a team 7 on 7 camp. He says he is still planning on visiting in July, but that may be a pipe dream. If he does visit he may become an option again, but he is probably going to be staying south.

Name: Silas Redd

State: CT

Competition: Penn State

Stars: 4/4

Chances: 100%

Update: Redd became the 4th verbal commitment in the 2010 class. He is the one running back that we needed to get in the class. Growing up a huge Penn State fan, it was important not to let him slip away.

Name: Zach Zwinak

State: MD

Competition: Virginia Tech, Ohio State

Stars: 4/4

Chances: Steady 40%

Update: Zwinak has visited Penn State a couple times this spring and it seems that we have made up a lot of ground on his father's alma mater Virginia Tech. It appeared this was shaping up to be a PSU/ VT battle, but Ohio State has started to make a move.

WRs

Name: Adrian Coxson

State: MD

Competition: Penn State

Stars: 4/5

Chances: 100%

Update: Coxson was the 3rd commitment for the Nittany Lions. He is a guy he continues to climb up the rankings. Scout has him ranked as the second best receiver in the country.

Name: Alex Kenny

State: PA

Competition: Virginia, Boston College

Stars: 4/3

Chances: Steady 85%

Update: Kenny will probably be visiting Virginia either this week or the real soon future. Some people are starting to think that he is looking elsewhere, but I would be surprised if he will not be a member of this class.

Name: Kyle Prater

State: IL

Competition: Oklahoma, Illinois, USC

Stars: 4/5

Chances: Steady 5%

Update: Prater said earlier in the process that he wanted to come out and visit Penn State. That tune seemed to change once Penn State received a commitment for Adrian Coxson. He has publicly eliminated the Lions and Oklahoma and Illinois seem to be the leaders.

Name: Kenny Stills

State: CA

Competition: USC, Florida, Oklahoma

Stars: 4/4

Chances: Steady 35%

Update: Stills in the process of setting up official visits. He will be going to Florida when they host Tennessee and Oklahoma in some point in October. He has yet to set a date for his Penn State visit, but it would be great if he came for the Ohio State game.

Committed Elsewhere:

Justin Hunter - LSU

Pete's Point of View:

After taking quite a few receivers last year this was not a high need this year. At most they were looking at taking 2-3. They got a stud in Coxson and I would be thrilled if he was the only one they brought in. If they get Kenney or Stills I would consider that gravy. It is amazing in the quality of skill position players the Lions have brought in over the past couple years.

TEs

Name: Blake Barker

State: MA

Competition: Boston College, Stanford, Virginia

Stars: 4/3

Chances: Dropping 10%

Update: Barker has recently eliminated Penn State. He listed his top 5 with Boston College, Virginia, Stanford, Florida, and Wake Forest.

Name: Kevin Haplea

State: NJ

Competition: Pitt, West Virginia, Florida

Stars: 3/4

Chances: Steady 65%

Update: Haplea has just come back from his Florida tour. He visited Florida, Miami, and Florida State. It didn't seem like any of those schools blew him away and with another visit lined up to Penn State in July we will see if we seal the deal.

Committed Elsewhere:

None

Pete's Point of View:

It seems like Penn State is just interested in taking just one Tight End prospect and it seems like all the eggs are in the Kevin Haplea basket.

OLs

Name: Kalon Davis

State: SC

Competition: Clemson, Alabama

Stars: 3/3

Chances: Steady 10%

Update: Davis has recently stated that Clemson his is leader and if Alabama is number 2. I don't know how sincere is interest was in Penn State before all the offensive line commitments, but after both parties have seemed to go their own way.

Name: Miles Dieffenbach

State: PA

Competition: Penn State

Stars: 3/4

Chances: 100%

Update: Dieffenbach was the 6th commitment of this class. Dieffenbach is being recruited to play center for the Nittany Lions. He was a huge recruiting coup for Penn State. His dad is the girl's tennis coach at Pitt and most thought he was a lock to head to Pitt as well.

Name: Luke Graham

State: PA

Competition: Penn State

Stars: NR/3

Chances: 100%

Update: Graham was the 5th commitment for Penn State. Another get out of the Pittsburgh area. He is an extremely athletic big man he could play any of the interior positions on the line.

Name: Robbie Havenstein

State: MD

Competition: Maryland, Virginia, NC State

Stars: 3/4

Chances: Dropping 20%

Update: Havenstein came out last week and said Virginia is his leader. Maryland seems to be a close second. Penn State may have started to stop recruiting him now that they have their two interior line guys.

Name: Matt James

State: OH

Competition: Notre Dame, Ohio State

Stars: 4/4

Chances: Dropping 5%

Update: James has eliminated Penn State and is focusing on Notre Dame and Ohio State.

Name: Khamrone Kolb

State: VA

Competition: Virginia, Virginia Tech, North Carolina

Stars: 3/NR

Chances: Dropping 40%

Update: Kolb seems to be the most realistic option still left on the board. The reason being is he is a tackle prospect, however, he doesn't seem to be in a hurry and I am not sure the ship has sailed for him. In another year I would definitely say yes, but until we get a better idea on scholarship numbers he may have to wait.

Name: Arie Kouandjio

State: MD

Competition: Stanford, Duke, Ohio State, Cal

Stars: 4/3

Chances: Dropping 20%

Update: Kouandjio is a prospect who keeps picking up offers. He plays his recruitment very close to the vest so it is hard to get a sense on where he is leaning. He has visited Penn State which is a positive and we will have to see if he comes up for an official visit in the fall.

Name: Tom Ricketts

State: PA

Competition: Penn State

Stars: NR/4

Chances: 100%

Update: Ricketts became the 7th commitment for the Nittany Lions. If you thought stealing Dieffenbach away from Pitt was a coup, that was nothing. Ricketts dad played and Pitt in the 80's before being dratfted by the Stealers. In back to back days Penn State raided the city of Pittsburgh and built their offensive line for the future.

Commited Elsewhere:

Brent Benedict - Georgia

Seth Bentancourt (verbal) - Boston College

A.J. Cann - South Carolina

James Hurst - North Carolina

Pete's Point of View:

Penn State had wanted to get 3-4 linemen in this class. They have the 3 they wanted by July, but no one would have guessed these would be the three. The Lions continue to build their line with lighter, athletic linemen and it has been working as the line has been a strenght the past few years.

Position Battles To Watch #2: Stankiewitch v. Troutman

Topic: Who SHOULD win and who WILL win this position battle?

2. Stankiewitch v. Troutman at one of the two open offensive guard spots?

Greg's Take--This is really one of the more important positions battles in 2009. Red shirt Freshman Matt Stankiewitch (Stank) is one of the lighter offensive linemen on the roster listed at 290 lbs., while red shirt Sophomore Johnnie Troutman is one of the heaviest at 322 lbs. While neither has seen any significant playing time, the edge in experience goes to Troutman who has had one extra year of practice and maturity under his belt. On the other hand, Stank came highly recruited projecting as a center and has not disappointed based on what practice spectators say. That said, Troutman SHOULD and WILL win this starting job. The key to offensive line play is not size nor individual "talent," but experience and cohesiveness as a unit. With more practice reps under his belt and a year's more maturity, Troutman is likely going to line up as a starter on September 5th against Akron and will still be there on September 26th when Iowa comes to the "White House."

Pete's Response--After my comments about why I believe Timmons will beat out Lynn, I should agree with you, but I DON'T. Stank is going to be another Stephen Wisniewski, I can just feel it. Well maybe not quite as good, but anything close and we will have a great player. I think he has all the tools and just like Wiz; he will be too good to keep off the field. I think Troutman will be a good player and I agree that he should win the job, but that is how good I think Stank will be. Add that to the fact that the offensive line is a position where in recent years we have thrown young guys into the fire.

Greg's Final Word--I hope you're right, Pete. If Stank is anywhere near Wiz, give him the job and let him cut-his-teeth against the "weak" non-conference schedule and build continuity with the rest of the first-string line. But, I just don't see that happening unless Stank wins the job in August. If Troutman begins the season as a starter, only mistakes or injury will keep him out of the line up. Again, the offensive line is all about continuity and the staff is not going to break that up unless Stank is much better than Troutman from the beginning. Stank will get his minutes in the second half of the early season games, but it will be with the second-string line.

Position Battles To Watch #1: Timmons v. Lynn?

Topic: Who SHOULD win and who WILL win this position battle?

1. Timmons v. Lynn for the cornerback position opposite A.J. Wallace.

Pete's Take--This should be an interesting battle that could last late into fall camp. If Knowledge Timmons is ever going to be anything besides a special team guy, he has to do it now. No one questions his speed and athleticism, but will that translate onto the field? D'Anton Lynn on the other hand seems to have all the tools to be special. His father is an NFL coach, he picked up things quickly enough that he played as a true freshman, and he was highly recruited out of high school (by the likes of Oklahoma, USC, Ohio State, and Florida). I don't know if he is the athlete that Timmons is, but he is probably able to make up for it with natural ability and intelligence. My bet would be on Timmons because when do we not play the veteran player? And for a prediction, I bet he has a better year than A.J. Wallace.

Greg's Response--I also think that Timmons will win the job, but the only way he has a better year than A.J. Wallace is if Wallace re-injures the infamous hamstring injury that has plagued him the last two seasons. In that case, Timmons and Lynn would be sharing the field together. Lynn will likely play the nickel-back role like King and Wallace did before moving into the starting line up the next year. On a similar issue, when and how much is incoming Freshman Darrell Givens going to play? Givens has stated that the staff told him he'd have a chance to start his Freshman year and if not, that he could play nickel-back. But with Wallace, Timmons, and Lynn taking up the top three spots, Givens might have a hard time finding the field for any meaningful minutes once the Big Ten schedule rolls around.

Pete's Final Word--I agree that the loser of the battle will be on the field anyway. I think Lynn has a nice body to play nickel-back. I would much rather see a big corner than a safety that doesn’t have the same cover ability. On the Givens front, we have to get him some time. He will probably be starting opposite of Lynn next year and he has to see some time before then. If he doesn’t, then we will be in all sorts of hurt. On that note, I think Stephon Morris and Derrick Thomas should all see time this year. I don’t care if it is just during the non-conference. The only returning cornerbacks next year will be Lynn, Givens, Thomas, Morris, and possibly Michael Wallace if he doesn’t gray-shirt. With the way the schedule is looking, they all should play for most of the second halves of games. Plus, throw them in on special teams and make sure they are ready to start at Alabama next year.

The 10 Most Important Players In 2009: #2 & #1

Following Pete's very in-depth defensive recruiting stock-report (which followed the same on the offensive side) it is time to finish our Top 10 Most Important Players in 2009 list.

2. Deon'tae Pannell, OT (So.)--While our selection of Daryll Clark as the most important player for the 2009 season will not surprise anyone, Pannell's selection at #2 might raise some eyebrows. Much has been discussed about Penn State's loss of of three NFL-caliber offensive linemen in almost every pre-season publication or season preview, but few (if any) ever talk about Pannell. The Nits running game will come, but pass protection for Clark will be equally as important--and that is where Pannell comes into the equation. Coming into his first year starting at left tackle, protecting Clark's blind-side will be Pannell's most important job. Since Freshman Kevin Newsome is the only other other scholarship quarterback on the roster and likely will not be ready to lead Penn State to a Big Ten Championship if Clark gets injured (god forbid, knocking-on-wood as we speak), Pannell must be more than adequate at keeping Clark's jersey clean. Clark's mobility will help, but you can't run away from what you can't see coming and Pannell is the only one who can prevent a devistating blind-side hit from occuring.

1. Daryll Clark, QB (Sr.)--It should not surprise anyone that Clark--a senior captain, in his second year starting, and one of only two scholarship quarterbacks on the roster--is the Nittany Lion's most important player in 2009. He can throw (2,592 yds, 19 td), he can run (282 yds, 10 td), and he--along with co-captain Sean Lees--is the best leader Penn State has had since the Robinson-Posluszny-Zemaitis era. For Penn State to repeat as Big Ten Champions, something the Nits have never done, and contend for a National Championship, Clark must have another 1st Team All-Big Ten year, lead the offense, groom a new corps of wide receivers, and continue to be the leader that Anthony Morelli never was. If you want more evidence, look no further than last year's Iowa game. In Penn State's only regular season loss last year, Clark had his worst performance as a starter--9/23 passing, 86 yards, and one game-ending interception in the freezing cold and coming off of a concussion in the Ohio State game. In short, as goes Clark, so do the Nittany Lions. But never fear, something tells me this is going to be a special year for Clark & Co.

Previously Discussed Players:
3. Sean Lee, MLB (Sr.)
4. A.J. Wallace, CB (Sr.)
5. Evan Royster, RB (Jr.)
6. Derek Moye, WR (So.)
7. Stephen Wisniewski, C (Jr.)
8. Gerald Hodges, SS (Fr.)
9. Jack Crawford, DE (So.)
10. Kevin Newsome, QB (Fr.)

Honorable Mention: Navarro Bowman, Jared Odrick, Chaz Powell, Mike Mauti, Drew Astorino, and all freshman wide receivers and defensive backs.

Stock Report - Defense

DEs

Name: Kyle Baublitz

State: PA

Competition: PSU

Star Rankings: Rivals 4 / Scout 3 (4/3)

Chances: 100%

Update: Baublitz became the 8th commitment to the Nittany Lions when he gave his verbal to Joe Paterno Sunday afternoon. Baublitz projects right now as a strong side defensive end who could grow into a defensive tackle.

Name: T.J. Clemmings (verbal)

State: NJ

Competition: Rutgers, Maryland, Pitt

Stars: 3/4

Chances: Steady 15%

Update: Clemmings is a newer offer. It has not been confirmed in writing or what Penn State's chances are. He was just at the Premier showcase in NJ and said he has plans to camp at Pitt and Maryland. It is hard to tell what his interest is in Penn State and what Penn State's his in him. Until he makes a visit to campus he will be hard to get a read on.

Name: Dominique Easley

State: NY

Competition: Florida, Rutgers, Boston College

Stars: 4/4

Chances: Steady 35%

Update: Easley remains one of the quietest recruits on Penn State's board. He does not give out a lot of information. What we do know he is has visited Penn State, Florida, and Rutgers during the spring. Penn State usually does pretty well when they go into New York and we will see if that can continue with Easley.

Name: J.R. Ferguson

State: MD

Competition: ACC and SEC schools

Stars: 5/4

Chances: Dropping 10%

Update: Ferguson is one of the elite prospects in the country. Though he is from Maryland he is originally from the south. This looks to be where he is headed, especially after transferring to Hargrave Military Academy.

Name: Kareem Martin

State: NC

Competition: North Carolina, NC State, Georgia Tech

Stars: 3/3

Chances: Steady 15%

Update: Martin is one of Penn State's newest offers. He seems to focused on southern schools and admits to growing up a North Carolina fan. With so many offers out to defensive linemen and the recent commitment by Baublitz, I am unsure how hard Penn State will pursue him.

Name: Corey Miller

State: SC

Competition: Tennessee, Florida State, North Carolina

Stars: 4/4

Chances: Steady 10%

Update: Miller is a teammate of Marcus Lattimore and is an extremely touted recruit in his own regards. Unlike Lattimore he does not have a visit planned to come up to Penn State. That will make it difficult to pull him out of the south. Many believe that Tennessee is the early leader.

Name: C.J. Olaniyan

State: MI

Competition: Michigan, Michigan State, Illinois

Stars: 4/4

Chances: Steady 25%

Update: Olaniyan has kept quiet about his list of schools. He has visited quite a few schools in the midwest as well as Penn State this spring. If Penn State wants to make a push for him there will need to try to get him to come back this summer or schedule an official for a game this fall.

Name: Dakota Royer

State: PA

Competition: Notre Dame, Pitt, Michigan State

Stars: 4/3

Chances: Rising 90%

Update: Royer has just cut down his list to 5 and Penn State has been there the entire time. It seemed to be a Penn State / Notre Dame battle throughout and still looks that way. Growing up a Penn State fan can't hurt, plus add into Penn State's dominance in state this year, Royer could be a future lion.

Name: Brandon Willis

State: SC

Competition: Tennessee, Florida State, Florida

Stars: 4/4

Chances: Steady 10%

Update: Willis is also a teammate of Marcus Lattimore. He is like Corey Miller in that he seems interested in schools from the south, specifically Tennessee and Florida State.

Committed Elsewhere:

Justin Henderson (verbal) - Kentucky

Pete's Point of View:

Penn State seemed to be interested in taking 3 defensive ends at the start of the process and I don't think that has changed. They got the first one this week with Kyle Baublitz and Dakota Royer could be on board at any moment. That would then leave the focus on Clemmings, Easley, and Olaniyan. You could not go wrong with any of those.

DTs

Name: Shariff Floyd

State: PA

Competition: Michigan, Rutgers, Florida

Stars: 4/5

Chances: Steady 35%

Update: Floyd continues to blow up this spring. He continues to receive offers from all over the country. He has been to Penn State a couple times and I am sure he will be back on an official visit this fall. Floyd says he plans to announce at the Army All-American game and that Penn State will definitely be a hat on the table. Michigan could be the major competition here.

Name: Evan Hailes

State: VA

Competition: Virginia Tech, LSU, Tennessee

Stars: 4/4

Chances: Rising 40%

Update: Hailes is visiting Tennessee this weekend and Penn State next weekend. He has also said he will make a commitment at some point shortly after his visit to Penn State. Once considered a lean to Virginia Tech, even they admit that Penn State may have passed them. He loves LJ and we should see if that is enough to pull the upset when he visits.

Name: Daquan Jones

State: NY

Competition: Boston College. Pitt, Syracuse, Maryland

Stars: 3/4

Chances: Rising 65%

Update: Jones got the offer he was waiting for from Penn State and has stated how it changed his whole recruitment. He is another underrated New York prospect that Penn State loves to find and has the versatility to play on the offensive or defensive line.

Name: Mike Thornton (verbal)

State: GA

Competition: Georgia Tech, Alabama, South Carolina

Stars: 3/3

Chances: Dropping 5%

Update: With three prospects higher on Penn State's board and the fact they are in good shape with all three does not bode well for Thornton. I don't think he has much interest in coming north anyways so it appears this recruitment is all but finished.

Committed Elsewhere:

Nick Acree - Virginia Tech

Anthony Ferguson - Iowa

Denzel McCoy - Georgia Tech

Pete's Point of View:

Penn State was only hoping to land two defensive tackles, but with three highly ranked prospects all on the the Lions I am sure they would take all three. Floyd won't announce for a while, but Jones and Hailes could both have summer decisions. If they would both commit here, Floyd is a prospect that we would hold a spot for. Plus Jones is someone that could switch over and play on either side of the ball.

LBs

Name: Khairi Fortt

State: CT

Competition: Notre Dame, Virginia, Florida

Stars: 4/4

Chances: Steady 75%

Update: Fortt has continued making visits this spring and none have seemed to be a true threat to Penn State. He also couldn't have hurt Penn State's chances that Fortt was in Lattimore's ear about the Nits. No one is sure when Fortt will pull the trigger, but it seems like Penn State is in prime position.

Name: Jordan Hicks (verbal)

State: OH

Competition: Texas, Ohio State

Stars: 4/5

Chances: Dropping 5%

Update: Hicks was given a verbal offer to see what kind of interest he had. The answer was not much as he seems to be leaning toward Ohio State and Texas.

Name: Mike Hull

State: PA

Competition: PSU

Stars: 4/4

Chances: 100%

Update: Hull was Penn State's 1st commitment this year. He projects as an outside linebacker or safety prospect.

Name: Tony Jefferson

State: CA

Competition: USC, Georgia, Oklahoma

Stars: 4/4

Chances: Dropping 10%

Update: Jefferson has listed Penn State in his top 5 and said he would like to take an official visit, but we will see if that happens. Most consider him a strong USC lean.

Name: Jewone Snow (verbal)

State: OH

Competition: Michigan State, Illinois, Cincinnati

Stars: 3/3

Chances: Dropping 5%

Update: Snow camped at Penn State's Nike camp. He did not leave real high on Penn State's list. He has connections to Michigan State and probably will end up there.

Name: Travis Williams

State: VA

Competition: Virginia Tech, Miami, North Carolina

Stars: 4/3

Chances: Steady 20%

Update: Williams plans on camping at Penn State this summer. He continue to list us, but I don't know how realistic it is. He seems to be a tremendous athlete and seems like he could end up being a good safety prospect.

Committed Elsewhere:

Caleb Lavey (verbal) - Oklahoma State

Jamal Turner (verbal) - Ohio State

Pete's Point of View:

Penn State wanted to get two linebackers and it seems like that will happen. What is even better is they look like they are going to get the two they wanted from the start. It looks like Linebacker U will continue to be in good hands in the future.

DBs

Name: Keenan Allen

State: NC

Competition: Alabama, Clemson

Stars: 4/4

Chances: Rising 5%

Update: Allen mentioned Penn State early in the process, but has since focused on Alabama and Clemson. He is been considered a strong lean to Alabama for a while.

Name: Brandon Ifill (verbal)

State: PA

Competition: Pitt, Michigan, West Virginia

Stars: 3/4

Chances: Dropping 10%

Update: Ifill has only received a verbal offer from the Nittany Lions, which is surprising since we have not offered many DB's. It seemed like he was interested in Penn State early, but now seems focused on Michigan and Pitt.

Name: Sean Parker

State: CA

Competition: Not Sure

Stars: 4/5

Chances: Dropping 10%

Update: Parker has continued to receive offers nation wide. His latest being from Florida. Early on it seemed like Parker was interested in leaving the west coast, however, as the summer continues that seems more and more unlikely.

Name: Earnest Thomas (verbal)

State: MI

Competition: Illinois, UCLA, Wisconsin

Stars: 3/3

Chances: Steady 30%

Update: Thomas is a teammate of QB Robert Bolden. Again it is hard to just Penn State's interest because they have only given a verbal offer. He has visited Penn State before and they may just want to see some more film before seeing if they truly want to make a push for him.

Committed Elsewhere:

Bashaud Breeland (verbal) - South Carolina

Jeff Knox - Pitt

Pete's Point of View:

This is the most intriguing position so far because no one has any idea what Penn State is thinking. They took quite a few players last year so this doesn't seem to be a high priority. It is never bad to be picky. There is also a chance that Alex Kenney or Silas Redd could be given a look at DB.