Penn State Offseason Storylines: Is the Lions’ Young QB Room Behind Drew Allar a Concern?
As the Penn State Nittany Lions turn their focus to the offseason, questions about the quarterback depth chart loom large. Drew Allar, the highly touted sophomore, solidified himself as the starting quarterback in 2024 with a string of strong performances. However, what lies behind him on the depth chart raises concerns. With a young and relatively unproven group of backups, the Lions’ quarterback room is a topic of debate heading into the spring.
The Allar Era in Full Swing
Allar’s rise to QB1 was one of the highlights of Penn State’s 2023 season. A former five-star recruit, he showcased his arm strength, poise, and decision-making, helping the Lions secure a 10-win season. While his progression will be a focal point during the offseason, Penn State fans and coaches alike can breathe easier knowing the starting role is in capable hands.
Depth Concerns
Behind Allar, the depth chart features a mix of young talent and inexperience. Freshman Beau Pribula, a dual-threat quarterback with a high ceiling, is currently slotted as the primary backup. While Pribula has drawn praise for his athleticism and playmaking ability, his lack of game experience could be a concern should Allar miss time.
The Lions also added Jaxon Smolik, another promising freshman, to the room. Smolik, a late addition to the 2023 recruiting class, has shown flashes of potential but remains a developmental project. With two freshmen as the primary backups, Penn State’s quarterback situation could be precarious if injuries arise.
Transfer Portal or Development?
One of the critical decisions for head coach James Franklin and his staff will be whether to address the depth issue through the transfer portal. Bringing in an experienced quarterback to provide insurance and mentorship could be a viable solution. However, doing so might risk stunting the development of Pribula and Smolik, who are seen as long-term contributors.
Alternatively, Penn State could double down on its young quarterbacks, trusting the coaching staff to accelerate their readiness. Offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich has a strong track record of developing quarterbacks, which could give the Lions confidence in their ability to manage the situation internally.
Balancing the Roster
Quarterback depth isn’t just about having a capable backup; it’s also about maintaining a healthy competition in practice and preparing for unforeseen circumstances. The coaching staff must strike a balance between giving Allar the necessary reps to continue his development and ensuring the younger quarterbacks receive enough opportunities to grow.
What’s Next?
As Penn State prepares for spring practices, all eyes will be on the quarterback room. Franklin’s decision to potentially pursue a transfer or stick with the current group will be one of the defining storylines of the offseason. While the Lions’ starting quarterback situation is as solid as it has been in years, the uncertainty behind Allar ensures that the quarterback room will remain a topic of conversation well into the 2024 season.
With the stakes high for a program aiming to compete for Big Ten titles and College Football Playoff berths, every decision matters. Penn State’s ability to address its quarterback depth will play a crucial role in determining just how far the Lions can go in the years ahead.
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