The Nittany Blog

Blue-White Roundtable (Michigan Week)

2007-09-22T09:32:00.000-04:00

If you're looking for my Blue-White Roundtable answers they can be found here:

The Nittany Notebook

My Top 25 Week One

2007-09-05T20:20:00.000-04:00

1. Southern Cal
2. LSU
3. West Virginia
4. Wisconsin
5. Oklahoma
6. Virginia Tech
7. Louisville
8. Texas
9. UCLA
10. Penn State
11. Georgia
12. Nebraska
13. Ohio State
14. Florida
15. Texas A&M
16. Arkansas
17. Missouri
18. Auburn
19. Georgia Tech
20. Clemson
21. Oregon
22. Hawaii
23. South Florida
24. TCU
25. Tennessee

Added:
19. Georgia Tech
20. Clemson

Dropped Out:
5. Michigan
25. Florida State

I Hate Notre Dame

2007-09-05T19:39:00.000-04:00

photo©Will Dorsey, Boston College

That’s the simple truth. Sorry to any Domers that read this. Not all ND fans are bad people. One of my friends is a subway alum and I end up giving him more crap about ND than he gives me about Penn State. But the overwhelming majority of Notre Dame fans are arrogant unknowledgeable fools. Most non-ND fans know this but it goes to a whole new level when you’ve lived in one of the biggest hot beds of Irish supporters.

I’m from Scranton, PA and Northeastern Pennsylvania has to be one of the largest outposts of ND fans. The thing is 95% of them, and that might be being a bit kind, didn’t graduate from Notre Dame. I’d guess the vast majority of them have never been to South Bend. It’s these “my-granddaddy-was-Irish-so-I-root-for-ND” that are the worst. They are the ones that have created the arrogant ND fan stereotype. I almost feel bad for the actual ND alumni who have to put up with these jokers that make the entire fan base look bad.

It was bad in the early ’90s. It’s even worse now. The blind loyalty to Charlie Weis. The supposed “return to glory.” It’s all sickening. Notre Dame isn’t back. If the Irish are “back” they certainly have no intention of returning to where they were during the Lou Holtz era. I’d hardly call a two year stretch where your best win is against a Penn State team that went 9-4 (and don’t kid yourself, that’s it their biggest, I defy anyone to beat it) being “back.”

I can’t wait for Saturday night. I’ve waited a year for this. I remember thinking as ND went up 41-3 during last year’s match up, “Damn I can’t wait until next year and the shoe is on the other foot.” Last year Penn State had the inexperienced team playing a much more experienced ND team. This year Notre Dame returns little experience and Penn State has the experience and home-field advantage. And with Jimmy Clausen starting, it’s going to be rough for the Irish.

I’ll have a more in-depth preview up tomorrow but for now a score prediction:

Penn State 41, Notre Dame 10

Blue-White Roundtable

2007-09-04T22:24:00.000-04:00

Which is worse: having your parachute fail to open while skydiving or losing to Appalachian State?
Losing to Appalachian State. At least if your parachute doesn’t open people will pity you, or at the very least their first response won’t be uncontrollable laughter (as mine was upon hearing the final score). Or in a worst case scenario you’re dead. Assuming you die on impact that has to be relatively painless. Losing this game will haunt Michigan fans for years, perhaps even decades. Maybe forever. There will be no relief from this one for a long time. I honestly don’t know how I could deal with myself after a loss like that. That is the kind of game that makes you question yourself as a fan.

Is it too early to worry about the running game?
Yes. Remember the pitiful run game against Akron last season. Tony Hunt only had 36 yards on 14 carries and everyone was ready to panic. And that was with a third-year starter. I think we need to be patient. Austin Scott hadn’t carried the ball in a real game in more than a year and a half. Rodney Kinlaw has never been anything more than a change of pace back. Evan Royster was playing in his first collegiate game. Considering Kinlaw and Royster nearly each outperformed the team’s rushing attack in last season’s opener I’d say there’s some hope. The first game where Penn State is going to have to establish a strong running game is against Michigan. That leaves Notre Dame and Buffalo to work on it. Those games can be easily won with Morelli just slinging it.

Is just a win enough to satisfy you this weekend against Notre Dame or are there qualifiers on a victory to make it acceptable?
Given the fact that Notre Dame looked flat out awful against Georgia Tech I think PSU needs to win by at least 14 to make it acceptable, although at the end of the day a win is a win and I'll take it any way we can get it. But more-a-less I just want to see the team play solid football. Mainly just cut down on the drops and hopefully start establishing a rushing attack. If Georgia Tech's passing game hadn't been so pedestrian they could've easily beaten Notre Dame a lot worse than they did. I think with the experience that Penn State has in the passing game and with it being a rough atmosphere for the Irish Penn State should have no problem hanging a lot of points on the board. A fast start is going to be crucial. Put this Notre Dame team away early, don't let them they they have any shot at winning.

Lightning Round
Got a ticket, praying for a ticket, or watching the game somewhere else this weekend?
I’ll be watching from the comfort of my own couch after having to listen to the FIU game on the radio while driving around aimlessly after the local Buffalo Wild Wings decided not to show the game.

What non-PSU game are you looking forward to this weekend?
LSU-Virginia Tech is too obvious. Miami-Oklahoma is intriguing but it’s hard to get excited about this one after imaging how big a match up this one would’ve been 4-5 years ago. Oregon-Michigan will be interesting just to see how the Wolverines bounce back. I don’t think that one will be close. Either Michigan is motivated and crushes the Ducks or the Wolverines get blown out as they wallow in their self-pity.

Clausen to Start Against Penn State

2007-09-04T19:47:00.000-04:00

Jimmy "God" Clausen to start against Penn State

A pretty big leap of faith for Charlie Weis. Seriously, Clausen is about to make his first start in what may end up being the most hostile environment that he will ever play in college or pro (assuming he gets that far, unlike another ND golden boy by the name of Ron Powlus).

Personally I think Demetrius Jones gives ND the best chance to win against Penn State. Juice Williams managed to keep Illinois competitive with PSU last season by running the option until PSU's defense finally figured out how to stop it.

This is a baptism by fire for Clausen. Troy Smith couldn't handle it. What makes anyone think a week will be enough time to get Clausen ready? I almost feel bad for the kid. He 's going to get the crap beat out of him on Saturday night and then be berated by ND's less than understanding fans come Sunday.

The Return of The Nittany Blog

2007-09-04T17:01:00.000-04:00

After a year and a half hiatus from this site I have decided to resume posting here. I will continue to cover Penn State football through The Nittany Notebook for MVN. However, I have decided to use this as an outlet for my more insane ramblings and general thoughts on the entire college football world, a freedom I don't really get with MVN.

Coming back to this place is like getting behind the wheel of your old Camaro after driving a Lexus. Sure, there aren't as many bells and whistles but at the end of the day it just feels right. Luckily, I can have the best of both worlds.

The Nittany Blog is Moving

2006-02-07T15:26:00.000-05:00

My new site, The Nittany Notebook, launched today. This is my final post here at The Nittany Blog. I encourage all of my current readers to continue reading on with The Nittany Notebook as it will be similar to this site, except affiliate with The Most Valuable Network, one of the fastest growing sports journalism sites today. Hopefully it will continue to gain my writing some more exposure.

Penn State Stuns #6 Illinois

2006-02-04T23:13:00.000-05:00

I am in udder shock right now. What I just heard cannot be real. Penn State basketball, beating a Top 10 team on the road, ending the nation's longest home winning streak? Unbelieveable. As a Penn State basketball fan, this is an historic victory. This is by far the biggest victory for Penn State since the win over North Carolina to advance to the Sweet 16. Heck, considering what was riding on it for Illinois, it may have been bigger. To start out down 13-0 and come back like the Lions did- it shows heart and pride. Everything finally came full circle for this team. So close against Michigan State last week, Michigan earlier in the week, PSU was finally able to seal the deal.

Now Penn State has three consecutive home games against Minnesota, Wisconsin and Indiana. Wisconsin lost to Purdue today and Indiana lost at home against Connecticut. All three are winnable games and obviously want these wins but every Penn State fan is going to spend the rest of the season basking in the glory of beating Illinois. Just unbelieveable.

Penn State's Popularity Rejuvanated

2006-02-04T10:02:00.000-05:00

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/sioncampus/02/03/psu.hot/index.html

Nice article from the sports editor of the Daily Collegian. It's simply amazing how one season has completely changed the Penn State football program from the snake-bitten, shell of its former self to the football powerhouse led by a legend that had been Penn State through 1999 and then for that brief stint in 2002.

It's a good time to be a Penn State alum and/or fan right now. It's nice to once again be despised by fans of other schools than pitied by fans of other schools.

Claxton Leads the Lions

2006-02-04T00:18:00.000-05:00

http://www.timesleader.com/mld/timesleader/sports/13779548.htm

Great article about Geary Claxton and what he means to Penn State. It's been a long time since there has been a player at Penn State as good and talented as Claxton. He is the first Penn State basketball player since Calvin Booth to actually have NBA potential. I'm really excited about the fact that he is only a sophomore. Led by Claxton and Cornley, the NIT might be in reach next season. While that would be utter failure at most schools, it would be a good season for the Lions.

Penn State's Class of 2006

2006-02-01T18:18:00.000-05:00

By Position: QB-2 RB-2 WR- 2 TE- 1 OL- 4 DE- 5 DT- 4 LB- 2 DB- 2
By State: Delaware- 1 Maryland- 7 New Jersey- 5 New York- 3 Pennsylvania- 6 Virginia- 2

Quarterback:
Brett Brackett (Lawrenceville, NJ)- Brackett was Penn State's first commitment for the Class of 2006. Originally it looked as though he would be the only QB recruit until Pat Devlin jumped on board. However, Brackett is big and athletic will get an opportunity to play. He is surprisingly mobile for such a big guy. I would expect him to redshirt in 2006 unless injuries create the need for some depth.

Pat Devlin (Exton, PA)- Devlin looks like Penn State's quarterback of the future. He had an outstanding senior season and should be ready to contribute at Penn State in 2007. However, after the debacle that was Anthony Morelli's first two seasons at Penn State, I would expect Devlin to redshirt in 2006 barring an injury to Anthony Morelli.

Running Back:
Brent Carter (Pottstown, PA)- Carter originally committed to Virginia before changing his mind during the final days of recruiting. Carter provides some more stability at tailback. With Tony Hunt and Austin Scott departing following the 2006 season, it was a position of need. Carter is a good size (6-3, 205) tailback and could get some playing time this season so he is seasoned heading into 2007. Or he may redshirt. The situation is unclear at this point.

Travis McBride (McKeesport, PA)- McBride is Penn State's lone signee from the WPIAL in this class. McBride is more of a developmental prospect, like Jeffries, as his future appears to be as a defensive back. He played on the defensive side of the ball in high school in addition to playing tailback. Expect him to redshirt in 2006 as the coaching staff decides what position is best for him.

Evan Royster (Chantilly, VA)- Royster is another tailback who will provide stability at tailback going into 2006 where Rodney Kinlaw will be the most experienced returnee. Royster is smaller than Carter but has better speed and could be a good change of pace back and/or kick returner. Like Carter, he could be an immediate contributor or redshirt in 2006. With two seniors and a junior on the three-deep, I would tend to think it will be the latter.

Wide Receiver:
Chris Bell (Norfolk, VA)- Amidst the recent number of blue chip prospects to announce for Penn State, Bell has been lost in the shuffle. However, Bell may be the earliest contributor from this class, at least on the offensive side of the ball. He has the size and speed to be a dominating receiver at the collegiate level. There is no doubt that he will play, if not start, from day one. Bell could start if Deon Butler's move to cornerback in the spring is permanent. If Butler stays on offense, Bell will be on the most used wideouts in PSU's receiver rotation.

Cedric Jeffries (Egg Harbor, NJ)- Jeffries, one of the less heralded players in the class, came aboard in late December when he decommitted from Virginia. Jeffries future at Penn State is likely as a defensive back. Because of that, and Penn State's lack of experience at every secondary position, I doubt he will redshirt.

Tight End:
Andrew Quarless (Uniondale, NY)- Quarless will add yet another explosive offensive weapon to Penn State's already well stocked arsenal. Quarless is also fast enough that he can line up in the slot as well. He is a dynamic player who should contribute right away with Isaac Smolko departed.Quarless should develop into one of Anthony Morelli's favorite targets.

Offensive Line:
Lou Eliades (Ocean, NJ)- Eliades is one of three blue chip linemen that the Nittany Lions added in this class. And much like the other two (Logan-El and Walton), Eliades will have an opporunity to play right away. With four open starting spots on the offensive line, they all may have an opportunity to contribute early on. I expect Eliades to contribute early on at either guard or tackle.

Doug Klopacz (Montvale, NJ)- Klopacz, the only two-star prospect landed by Penn State according to Rivals.com, is a project. He played tight end for his first three years of high school before seeing some time as lineman this past season. Klopacz is similar to some of the offensive linemen that Iowa has landed over the years- high school tight ends who grow into a lineman. It is almost certain that Klopacz will redshirt in 2006. He needs to put on some more weight and develop his technique before seeing the playing field.

Antonio Logan-El (Forestville, MD)- Logan-El is perhaps the most heralded of the offensive linemen coming in. After verballing to Maryland early on the process, Logan-El recently switched to Penn State in what some considered an "out of line" announcement. Some have said that Logan-El needs to work on his technique but with a talent like his and the lack of experience on the offensive lineman, Logan-El may need to learn on the job. Unless Paterno and the coaching staff is completely dissatisfied with his play in fall practice, expect to see him on the field in 2006.

J.B. Walton (Indian Head, MD)- Walton may be the most polished of the incoming offensive linemen and may have the best shot to start right away. Walton looks like a future guard who should manage to crack the three deep going into 2006. Of all three highly touted offensive linemen, Walton will almost assuredly see the field in 2006.

Defensive End:
Maurice Evans (Middle Village, NY)- Evans is going to be a dominating defensive end at Penn State. With the departures of Tamba Hali and Matthew Rice, Evans wil have an opporunity to contribute right away. Tom Bradley likes to use a rotation of defensive ends, something that was slightly hampered in 2005 when Lavon Chisley was ruled academically ineligibile. Now with Evans and the other standout defensive ends, Bradley should have no problem finding enough players to fit his system. Evans will play and play often in 2006. He dominated in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl against some of the best recruits in the nation.

Eric Latimore (Middletown, DE)- Latimore, one of the lesser known defensive end signees, is a little bit of a sleeper. Before announcing Penn State, Latimore had received quite a bit of interest from Miami that helped to get his name out a bit more. With three more highly ranked defensive ends ahead of him, Latimore could play right away, depending on if Aaron Maybin is able to bulk up enough to play defensive end or not. If Maybinis ready, Latimore might redshirt.

Aaron Maybin (Ellicot City, MD)- Maybin has the potential to be a tremendous defensive end. If he is able to hold onto his 4.6 speed as he bulks up to play defensive end, he could become an outstanding pass rusher. However, with the number of ends signed in this class, Maybin's future may be as a hybrid DE/LB who can stand up and play on the outside or drop down as a pass rusher. Gaining the bulk to play defensive end or linebacker will determine his playing time in 2006. If he is able to add the weight and not lose his speed, Maybin should see some playing time. If not, he will redshirt. With five defensive ends in this class, PSU will not rush Maybin's development.

Jared Odrick (Lebanon, PA)- Odrick, along with Evans, have the best chance to play right away. Odrick has reportedly dropped down to 286, making it easier for him to play on the end. While some suggest Odrick should move to tackle, Odrick could develop into a powerful, running stopping end. In the running heavy Big Ten, that can only be an advantage. Look for Odrick to see the field right away, possibly first coming in as a run stopping specialist.

Johnnie Troutman (Browns Mills, NJ)- Troutman became Penn State's final addition at defensive end in this class. However, his future has been rumored to be as an offensive lineman. At 6-4 289, he already has the size, now he will just need to work on his technique and with the plethora of offensive linemen in this class, he won't be rushed along. If he is switched to offense he will almost definitely redshirt. If he stays on defense, all bets are off.

Defensive Tackle:
Alim "Abe" Koroma (Hershey, PA)- Koroma is one of the biggest sleepers in this class. Playing at the Milton Hershey School, he didn't play against the best competition the Keystone State has to offer but he dominated every team he faced, often being double-teamed the entire game. Koroma could play right away or he could redshirt. It will likely be determined by how well Phillip Taylor and Tom McEowen perform in fall practice.

Tom McEowen (Feasterville, PA)- McEowen was the first blue chip prospect to verbal to Penn State way back in July. McEowen is similar in size to Scott Paxson and should play in 2006 and possibly start in 2007 as Ed Johnson and Jay Alford both depart. McEowen has the potential to develop into a solid all around tackle that Paxson was for Penn State. As mentioned, McEowen should see the field in 2006 and should be in Tom Bradley's rotation at tackle.

Ollie Ogbu (Milford, NY)- Ogbu, like Koroma, is a sleeper/mystery man in this class. No one knows much about him but Ogbu clearly has the size to become a dominating interior lineman. At well over 300 pounds, Ogbu should have no problem closing up gaps on the defensive line and could fit in well if Tom Bradley installs the 3-4 defense, as has been rumored. Much like Koroma, Ogbu's playing time will depend on the playing time/progress made by McEowen and Taylor.

Phillip Taylor (Clinton, MD)- Taylor is the biggest and most dominating defensive tackle in this class. He also has the best chance among the tackle prospects to play right away. Like Ogbu, Taylor will fit well into Tom Bradley's proposed 3-4. Taylor is nearly 350 but still has 5.1 speed, the same as Ogbu and McEowen. I would imagine that Taylor will play right away in 2006 as depth at tackle was a concern in 2005 and with Scott Paxson departed, it leaves the chance wide open for Taylor.

Linebacker:
Navorro Bowman (Forestville, MD)- Bowman is Penn State's only early enrollee in this class. He is now taking classes at Penn State. Bowman will have an advantage of participating in both spring practice and fall practice. However, with all three starting linebackers returning and Jerome Hayes ready to contribute, Bowman may be redshirted, like Hayes, to save a year of eligibility. However, if he really impresses the coaching staff in spring practice, he could see the field in 2006.

Bani Gbadyu (Gaithersburg, MD)- Gbadyu originally committed to LSU in September before announcing for Penn State in December. Despite playing linebacker in high school, Gbadyu's future at Penn State appears to be as a safety. Gbadyu has the size and speed to play safety right away and with the lack of experience and depth there, Gbadyu could see the field right away. Donnie Johnson appears to have one spot locked down. Gbadyu could be a favorite to win it in pre-season practice.

Defensive Back:
A.J. Wallace (Pomfret, MD)- Wallace is unquestionably the top prospect, the crown jewel of Penn State's class. Wallace has the potential to be a gamebreaking receiver or a shutdown corner. But like Justin King last season, Wallace will play on both sides of the ball as a freshman. Picturing Derrick Williams, Chris Bell, Jordan Norwood and A.J. Wallace lined up as wideouts is just sick. How can any defense have enough weapons to stop this? Wallace is a Derrick Williams clone and just like D-Will, he will play from day one.

Signing Day Update

2006-02-01T18:08:00.000-05:00

All 24 of Penn State's commitments signed their National Letter of Intent today. However, LeSean McCoy and Vidal Hazleton are still up in the air. McCoy is supposed to announce very soon tonight. Hazleton is in a peculiar situation to say the least. Reportedly, Hazleton signed his LOI with Southern Cal but his parents haven't or refused to sign it. It will be interesting to see how this plays out over the next couple of days.

Former Penn State Teammates Face Off in Super Bowl

2006-01-31T21:29:00.000-05:00

http://www.corsicanadailysun.com/cnhi/corsicanadailysun/prosports/cnhinsprosports_story_031175707.html

Nice write up about Bobby Engram (Seattle), Joe Jurevicius (Seattle) and Jeff Hartings (Pittsburgh). Engram and Hartings are both looking for their first Super Bowl ring while Jurevicius won his first with Tampa Bay. All three were members of Penn State's 12-0 undefeated and unrecognized team. Even though I don't have much of a rooting interest in the game (Packers fan), it will be nice to see another Penn Stater get their first Super Bowl ring. All three are great embassadors of Penn State in the NFL.

Carter Spurns Virginia; Commits to Penn State

2006-01-31T15:02:00.000-05:00

http://www.pennlive.com/sports/patriotnews/index.ssf?/base/sports/1138703027264460.xml&coll=1

Another big commitment for Penn State. With Royster and now the addition of Carter, PSU has really solidified the tailback position heading into 2007.

I will not update the Verbal Board today. Carter, and any other players who sign with Penn State, tomorrow will be included in my review/outlook for the Class of 2006.

Big Ten Recruiting Write Up (Chicago Sun-Times)

2006-01-31T15:00:00.000-05:00

http://www.suntimes.com/output/campus/cst-spt-local29.html

Some nice short breakdowns on Big Ten recruiting thus far.

Zug Joins PSU as a Preferred Walk-On

2006-01-30T19:39:00.000-05:00

http://local.lancasteronline.com/4/20406

Should be a nice pick up for depth. I'm really hoping that Brant Quick, a speedy tailback from Berwick, Pennsylvania, would be a nice addition as well. I look at him as a smaller Matt Hahn.

Article on Penn State's Addition of De-commits

2006-01-29T13:54:00.000-05:00

http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/sports/colleges/13736466.htm

Pretty informative article worth reading.

Men's Basketball: Michigan State 69, Penn State 60

2006-01-28T23:35:00.000-05:00

http://www.gopsusports.com/pressreleases/pressrelease.cfm?anncid=9426

Closer. The best word to describe Penn State basketball lately, sans the Wisconsin massacre. Penn State actually hung tight with Michigan State until the very end. If only this team had just a little more talent, perhaps they could have pulled off the victory. But at the very least, this team is continuing to improve. It shows an awful lot of character to bounce back from a road slaughtering at the hands of Wisconsin to compete with Michigan State at the Breslin Center. I have been a big critic of Ed DeChellis but I really have to hand it to him, he is getting the best out of what he has to work with right now. If this team can continue to improve like this, that stunning upset that gets the nation to look at PSU basketball, isn't far away.

Geary Claxton continues to prove that he is the best player in the Big Ten that no one knows about. He posted a double-double (19 points, 13 rebounds) against Michigan State and continues to fuel Penn State's offensive attack. It has been awhile since we have seen such a talented player at Penn State. I'm glad that we'll be able to enjoy watching him play and develop for another two seasons.

Mike Walker turned in another tremendous performance off the bench, contributing 13 points. Walker has come up with a number of crucial shots this season and has really helped to give some of the starters a brief rest, something that was big problem over the past couple of seasons.

Penn State's next game is Wednesday night against Michigan at the Bryce Jordan Center. Michigan has been playing well lately, including upsetting Wisconsin today.

Men's Basketball: Wisconsin 72, Penn State 43

2006-01-26T15:27:00.000-05:00

http://www.timesleader.com/mld/timesleader/sports/13713403.htm

Well to say that I didn't see this coming would be a lie. Wisconsin was either going to fold up like a cheap suit or kill Penn State. Unfortunately, it was the latter. The Badgers, still among the best in the Big Ten, exposed what a young team PSU still is and what a long road it is still going to be on the way back to respectability. A win over Michigan State or Michigan would be huge for the Lions though that's about as likely as winning the Power Ball.

Geary Claxton is the best player in the Big Ten that no one knows about. Claxton had 17 against Wisconsin, the only Lion in double figures, and he has been a force in every game this season. I'm beginning to think that he may have a decent chance of getting drafted if he sticks it out for all four seasons.

Penn State's next game is Saturday at Michigan State. Unfortunately, this one looks like another road beatdown. Though I just can't help but thinking that if all of these other "low profile" programs can pull these major upsets, Penn State's time has to be coming eventually.

The Verbal Board (1/24/06)

2006-01-24T17:21:00.000-05:00

By Position: QB- 2 RB- 1 WR- 2 TE- 1 OL- 4 DE- 5 DT- 4 LB- 2 DB- 2
By State: Delaware- 1 Maryland- 7 New Jersey- 5 New York- 3 Pennsylvania- 5 Virginia- 2

Pat Devlin (Exton, PA)- Devlin's recruitment was certainly interesting to say the least. After months of speculation, he and Penn State had decided to "part ways" and he later verballed to Miami. Then after the coaches who recruiting him were fired, Devlin re-opened his recruiting, leaving the door open for Penn State to jump back in the race. Now when PSU takes the field on 9/2 against Akron, Devlin will be running out of the tunnel in Blue and White. Devlin's commitment to Penn State leaves PSU with a very solid future at QB with Anthony Morelli slated to start in 2006 and 2007, Devlin, redshirt freshman Daryl Clark and the other QB verbal in this class, Brett Brackett. Devlin will have a chance to join Kerry Collins (and hopefully Anthony Morelli) as top QB's produced by Penn State. However, expect him to redshirt in 2006, especially after the poor management of Anthony Morelli's first two seasons.

Running Back:
Evan Royster (Chantilly, VA)- Royster may be one of the most underrated players in the nation this season. In his storied career, Royster has rushed for over 6,000 yards and 90 touchdowns. With Tony Hunt and Austin Scott both being seniors in 2006, Royster will likely be a favorite to win the starting tailback spot in 2007. Only Rodney Kinlaw and possibly Lydell Sargeant are the only returning tailbacks in 2007. I don't expect to hear much from Royster in 2006 but look for him to make a big splash in 2007.

Wide Receiver:
Chris Bell (Norfolk, VA)- Some have called Bell "Randy Moss with a positive attitude". With Williams opposite Bell, Penn State will have two of the best playmakers in the Big Ten. Most have already penciled Bell in as a starter and Deon Butler is expected to move to defensive back. Expect an immediate impact from Bell.

Cedric Jeffries (Egg Harborm NJ)- Jeffries is a little bit of a surprise verbal as he previously committed to Virginia. For the second year in a row, Penn State has reeled in a Virginia verbal. Last season it was OL Matt Lowery. Jeffries will be a safety at Penn State and just like the other freshmen, he may get a chance to play early if things don't work out with some of the current players at the position.

Tight End:
Andrew Quarless (Uniondale, NY)- Quarless is yet another explosive target for Anthony Morelli. Quarless has tight end size but with 4.5 speed, he is more a less a large wide receiver. Quarless is the last key to making Penn State's offense one of the most dominant in college football. With Mark Rubin moving to flex TE, PSU can run two TE sets or split either out wide with a plethora of wideouts with 4.4 or better speed. It has been a long time since Penn State has been blessed with such an embarassment of riches on offense.

Offensive Line:
Lou Eliades (Oakhurst, NJ)- Eliades, one of the top rated offensive linemen in the nation, is a mammoth and athletic player. His combination of size and athleticism should help to earn playing time, if not a starting spot, on the offensive line this fall. Eliades verballed to Penn State ater deciding to cancel his mid-January visit to South Carolina, feeling that Penn State is the right place for him. I think it is unlikely that he will redshirt. Dick Anderson and/or Bill Kenney will use him on the offensive line in 2006. He may get a chance to play alongside fellow statesman Dennis Landolt, a OL signee from last year's class who is expected to compete for a starting spot this spring.

Doug Klopacz (Montvale, NJ)- Klopacz is easily the biggest project in the class thus far. At 6-2 249, he isn't close to being ready to play on any 1-A offensive line, let alone one in the Big Ten. After playing tight end for several seasons, he began playing guard following his commitment to Penn State. He is supposedly progressing nicely. He is very much in the mold of Iowa's offensive linemen under Kirk Ferentz- smaller coming out of high school, some tight ends like Klopacz, but they have outsanding technique. Klopacz will almost assuredly redshirt in 2006 but expect it to be an important year for him.

Antonio Logan-El (Forestville, MD)- Logan-El becomes yet another player to choose Penn State over another school, this time it was Maryland who got short-changed. Logan-El is a mammoth lineman with superb techinque who, with the many departures on the OL, will have a chance to contribute at Penn State right away. Logan-El was by far one of the most difficult recruits to read this season. He never tipped his hand once during the entire process and seemed to generally enjoy the entire process.

J.B. Walton (Indian Head, MD)- Walton becomes yet another high profile Maryland recruit to announce for Penn State. One of the highest ranked offensive lineman in the country, Walton should be among the group of linemen to re-establish Penn State's tradition of great offensive linemen. Walton is the biggest lineman at 275 but he is exceptionally quick and could become a dominating center at PSU. It's too early to tell whether he will play as a freshman or redshirt. It will really depend on how well the current linemen perform during the spring, summer and early season.

Defensive Ends:
Maurice Evans (Middle Village, NY)- Evans becomes the fourth defensive end to join Penn State's class when he verballed to the Nittany Lions at th U.S. Amry All-American Bowl. Evans is a "tweener" at this point in his career at only 245 but he is extremely explosive off the line and he dominated the All-American game. He will contribute at Penn State right away with a chance to earn significant playing time.

Eric Latimore (Middletown, DE)- Latimore should have a chance to contribute right away with the shortage of defensive ends. Miami was very high on him before he verballed to Penn State. At 6-5 240 he has reasonable size to play in Tom Bradley's rotation at defensive end right away. With the shortage of defensive ends, it is unlikely that he will redshirt but it is still a big question as to how much playing time can be expected.

Aaron Maybin (Ellicot City, MD)- Maybin, like Latimore, may have an opportunity to play right away if the depth chart really starts to look ugly. However, at 6-2 211, Maybin is not at an ideal size to play defensive end. Linebacker would be a better fit at this point for him, possibly safety even. Unlike Latimore, Maybin may redshirt if the coaching staff wants him to bulk up to play defensive end.

Jared Odrick (Lebanon, PA)- One of the top prospects in Pennsylvania this season jumps on the bus headed to Happy Valley. Odrick is already exceptionally large with a nice burst off the line for such a big player. He can contribute immediately on the defensive line and take up a lot of space and become a run stopper, something very important in a smashmouth-type conference like the Big Ten. There have been rumors that Odrick may move to the offensive line. However, I don't see that happening. But if it does, expect him to redshirt.

Johnnie Troutman (Pemberton, NJ)- Troutman becomes the fifth defensive end to commit to Penn State. However, with his outstanding size (6-4, 289) he will likely move into the middle and play defensive tackle, another poisiton of need, or move over to offense and play on the offensive line. Troutman will provide Penn State with a large and athletic player no matter where he ends up playing at Penn State.

Defensive Tackle:
Abe Koroma (Takoma Park, PA)- He's big and dominating. That is what everyone who has seen Koroma play says about him. While he doesn't play the best competition, Koroma fought through double and triple teams to have a strong senior season. He will add further depth at DT where Penn State already is very deep. Expect him to redshirt or see little playing time in 2006.

Tom McEowen (Feasterville, PA)- McEowen became the first major recruit to verbal to Penn State way back in July. However, McEowen will have a chance to play right away. He is already similarly sized as Scott Paxson. If he can bring the same intensity and passion that Paxson does, McEowen should have no problem earning his way onto the field. I expect him to be the #4 or #5 DT on the depth chart if he impresses during the summer.

Ollie Ogbu (Milford, NY)- Ogbu is the biggest sleeper in this class. He is a giant at 6-3 320 and he will take up space on the line. Not much is known about him but the little tidbits that are known have all been extremely positive. I wouldn't be surprised if he redshirted if things work out with the others in the mix at DT. Ed Johnson is expected to return and earn the starting spot left vacant with Scott Paxson graduating.

Phillip Taylor (Clinton, MD)- Taylor becomes yet another top-rated defensive tackle to join the Nittany Lions and is yet another who's presence may be felt right away. With his massive size, nearly 350 pounds, he would be the perfect nose tackle for the Tom Bradley's proposed experiment with the 3-4 defense. Taylor has the potential to become an elite run-stopper at the collegiate level.

Linebacker:
Navorro Bowman (Suitland, MD)- Bowman verballed to Penn State last week, choosing PSU over Ohio State and Virginia Tech. While he likely won't make an immediate impact, expect Bowman to continue the resurgence of Linebacker U. during his collegiate career. The only downside is that he needs shoulder surgery. He is planning to enroll early in January but I see him redshirting this season unless he is moved to safety for some reason. There is too much depth at LB right now to waste a year unless Paul Posluszny doesn't return. Expect a big impact in 2007.

Bani Gbadyu (Gaithersburg, MD)- Gbadyu verballed to Penn State on 12/14 after verballing to LSU earlier in the fall. He said that he fell in love with Penn State and that Happy Valley is definitely the right place for him. While he played linebacker in high school, he is expected to move to safety in college. With the lack of depth and experience at safety, if Gbadyu can make the tansition nicely, he may press for significant playing time in 2006.

Defensive Back:
Travis McBride (McKeesport, PA)- Penn State's latest commitment will add depth at safety immediately. With Harrell and Lowery graduating, there isn't a lot of depth or experience there. Donnie Johnson will likely start but the other spot is up for grabs. McBride won't likely be in the equation but he could be in the mix for playing time if things go awry.

A.J. Wallace (Pomfret, MD)- Wallace becomes Penn State's second defensive back commitment in this clas when he verballed at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. However, he will be much more than just a cornerback. Wallace possesses many of the same skills that sensational freshmen Derrick Williams and Justin King displayed in 2005. He will be used on both sides of the ball and will help to shore up what will be a completely new secondary. Wallace may have the biggest immediate impact of any recruit in this class in 2006.

Penn State Recruiting Keeps on Rolling- Devlin, Logan-El and Taylor All Announce for PSU

2006-01-24T17:14:00.000-05:00

Today Penn State experienced one of its biggest banner recruiting days in a long, long time. Penn State added three blue-chip prospects today in QB Pat Devlin from Exton, PA, OL Antonio Logan-El from Forestville, MD and DT Phillip Taylor from Clinton, MD. After months of questioning whether Penn State would land a top recruiting class or not, today ended that speculation. All three of these players are capable of making a big impact at Penn State during their career and some of them could contribute right away.

Today has been a very exciting day to be a Penn State fan. Now only eight days until National Signing Day.

Welcome to the Penn State family, Pat, Antonio and Phillip.

The Nittany Blog is Moving

2006-01-24T15:18:00.000-05:00

Due to a growing interest in The Nittany Blog and having been recognized as one of the premier Penn State blogs, I have decided that it is time to upgrade after having been invited to join the The Most Valuable Network, one of the leading online sports journalism sites. This move will help The Nittany Blog gain more exposure and get my opinions out to a wider audience.Once the move is completed, I will post a link to the new site.

The name will also be changing from The Nittany Blog to The Nittany Notebook.

Logan-El and Taylor Set to Announce Tomorrow

2006-01-23T19:57:00.000-05:00

Top Maryland prospects Antonio Logan-El, an offensive lineman, and Phillip Taylor, a defensive tackle, are set to announce their college choices tomorrow at 4:30 PM on ESPNews from the ESPNZone in Baltimore. Both prospects have two common potential schools- Maryland and Penn State. Logan-El verballed to Maryland awhile back before re-opening the recruiting process early in the season. Penn State has been reported to lead for Taylor.

Hopefully this will go as well as the last duo to announce at the same time, Maurice Evans and A.J. Wallace at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl when both announced for Penn State. Both of these players would be big additions to Penn State's already loaded class.

Here's to hoping Logan-El and Taylor decide to don the Blue and White.

The Verbal Board (1/23/06)

2006-01-23T11:36:00.000-05:00

By Position: QB- 1 RB- 1 WR- 2 TE- 1 OL- 3 DE- 4 DT- 3 LB- 2 DB- 2
By State: Delaware- 1 Maryland- 5 New Jersey- 5 New York- 3 Pennsylvania- 4 Virginia- 2

Quarterback:
Brett Brackett (Lawrenceville, NJ)- He's already a hefty QB at 6-6 232. Anthony Morelli and Darryl Clark are both the immediate options at quarterback but Brackett has been labeled as one of the more underrated prospects in the nation and he should challenge for Clark for the starting job following the 2007 season. Expect him to redshirt in 2006.

Running Back:
Evan Royster (Chantilly, VA)- Royster may be one of the most underrated players in the nation this season. In his storied career, Royster has rushed for over 6,000 yards and 90 touchdowns. With Tony Hunt and Austin Scott both being seniors in 2006, Royster will likely be a favorite to win the starting tailback spot in 2007. Only Rodney Kinlaw and possibly Lydell Sargeant are the only returning tailbacks in 2007. I don't expect to hear much from Royster in 2006 but look for him to make a big splash in 2007.

Wide Receiver:
Chris Bell (Norfolk, VA)- Some have called Bell "Randy Moss with a positive attitude". With Williams opposite Bell, Penn State will have two of the best playmakers in the Big Ten. Most have already penciled Bell in as a starter and Deon Butler is expected to move to defensive back. Expect an immediate impact from Bell.

Ollie Ogbu (Milford, NY)- Ogbu is the biggest sleeper in this class. He is a giant at 6-3 320 and he will take up space on the line. Not much is known about him but the little tidbits that are known have all been extremely positive. I wouldn't be surprised if he redshirted if things work out with the others in the mix at DT. Ed Johnson is expectedto return and earn the starting spot left vacant with Scott Paxson graduating.

Troutman Verbals to Penn State

2006-01-23T11:32:00.000-05:00

http://pennstate.scout.com/2/491803.html

Johnnie Troutman, a top defensive lineman from Pemberton, New Jersey, gave Joe Paterno his verbal commitment on Sunday night. Troutman is Penn State's 20th verbal commitment in this year's class. Troutman, despite playing defense in high school, could end up moving to the other side of the ball and playing on the offensive line at Penn State.

Welcome to the Penn State family, Johnnie.