Penn State's Spring Quarterback Competition Rolls on Confidently
Penn State really hasn't conducted a starting quarterback competition in three years. So James Franklin is determined to make this one last as long as possible — at least publicly.
Penn State quarterbacks Drew Allar and Beau Pribula continue to trade moments during spring practice, which culminates with the Blue-White Game on April 15 at Beaver Stadium. Franklin wants to give the competition as much breathing room as possible, even though Allar is the overwhelming favorite to start Sept. 2 opener against West Virginia.
In fact, asked how long that competition might last, Franklin said, "Until it's obvious and has been decided."
Franklin met with reporters in State College on Tuesday after what he called the team's best offensive practice of the season. Allar and Pribula have shared reps with the first- and second-team offenses, ensuring that each gets a true look at Penn State's top defense.
Running back Nicholas Singleton pointed to Allar as a difference-maker, while former Penn State quarterback Sean Clifford said at Pro Day that Pribula has a "very, very low-key great throw" that is improving exponentially.
Which is why Franklin is in no hurry to settle the quarterback competition. Why not give Pribula enough runway to prove himself?
"It's been a really good competition," Franklin said. "Those guys are battling. Sometimes it's hard to compare and contrast. Our No. 1 defense is good and talented, so we're making sure Drew gets reps with [the second-team offense] and Beau with the [first-team offense] and vice versa. Those things are important. Those two guys are both battling."
Mike Yurcich, Penn State's offensive coordinator, wants the quarterback challenge to continue as well. The Lions are installing their base offense this spring, which requires each quarterback to perfect some foundation traits.
As the Lions move toward training camp, Yurcich will begin directing the quarterbacks' differential skills into specific offensive packages. But first, the quarterbacks have to see and be seen.
"Everybody needs to see confidence in the quarterback," Yurcich said earlier in spring practice. "The confidence grows and it’s contagious. Leading by example is very important. All the quarterbacks, especially Drew and Beau, have done a really good job of leading by example, and you see signs of them being more vocal at the same time. That will come with more trust and more production."
Around the Nittany Lions
Though Franklin doesn't discuss injuries, he did note Tuesday that the team is in better shape than last spring. In 2022, Franklin modified the Blue-White Game because injuries, notably on the offensive line, limited availability. But the coach remains hopeful that Penn State can stage a full scrimmage April 15 at Beaver Stadium.
Gaining 29 pounds in three months doesn't sound positive. But that's what freshman linebacker Tony Rojas has done since enrolling in January, and Franklin's pleased. "It's good weight," Franklin said. "I don't know how that's necessarily possible."
Looking for a player to watch this season? Keep your eyes peeled for sophomore safety KJ Winston, whom fellow safety Jaylen Reed predicted will be an All-American at Penn State.
Kicker Alex Felkins (a former starter at Columbia) and punter Riley Thompson (a transfer from Florida Atlantic) have made their presences known on special teams. The Lions must replace punter Barney Amor and kicker Jake Pinegar, which is why Franklin invited the seniors to Penn State.
"The biggest thing is, we think we’re talented but we’re unproven and young [on special teams]," Franklin said. "To have veteran guys that’s done it in games before to make sure it’s a true competition we thought was important."
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