Penn State's Offense Takes Shape in Training Camp
Penn State rolled into Week 2 of training camp with more clarity on the offensive line, a veteran presence at wide receiver and a delineation at quarterback. Coach James Franklin discussed the Lions' progress with reporters after practice Thursday in State College. Here's the rundown.
Drew Allar getting the 'majority' of QB1 reps
During Big Ten Network's mid-week visit to Penn State, analyst Gerry DiNardo pointed out a defined practice rotation. Sophomore Drew Allar got most of the first-reps at quarterback, while redshirt freshman Beau Pribula "never really went with the 1s." That practice followed three days after Franklin reiterated his plan that the quarterbacks would compete through training camp.
After practice Thursday, Franklin said that Allar has taken "the majority of the reps" as first-team quarterback through training camp. Though Franklin isn't ready to name a starter, he is readying the quarterbacks for their roles.
The receivers are surging
DiNardo also took note of Penn State's receivers, saying concerns about the position "appeared to be solved." The position's standout has been KeAndre Lambert-Smith, a junior who is assuming the role of No. 1 receiver. Lambert-Smith and redshirt sophomore Trey Wallace have made huge strides, with Lambert-Smith becoming more consistent across his game.
"KeAndre is another guy who flashed at times [last year]," Franklin said. "It's consistency and opportunity. The last few games he some more opportunities, and the targets you get, you've got to maximize. He is progressing well. A strong relationship is being built between him and [receivers coach Marques Hagans]. I think he will, and I think we need him to, have a big year this year."
Finding anchors on the offensive line
Franklin said left tackle Olu Fashanu and center Hunter Nourzad are forming the foundation of the offensive line. Further, right tackle Caedan Wallace is working into that category, as is guard Sal Wormley. Both are returning starters who have built a more consistent portfolio of skills. Particularly Wallace, who began camp with sophomore Drew Shelton competing for his spot. Wallace appears to be reclaiming his starting spot.
"We've all seen flashes [with Wallace], when he may be as good as any tackle in the country," Franklin said. "He's just got to do it more consistently."
A season-ending injury
As Blue-White Illustrated first reported, defensive tackle Alonzo Ford Jr. is out for the season with an undisclosed injury. Ford is the second defensive lineman confirmed out with a season-ending injury. Defensive end Smith Vilbert's injury was confirmed on Media Day.
Ford, a junior, transferred to Penn State from Old Dominion, where he made 3.5 sacks last season.
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