Penn State Football: Spring Practice Notes and Photo Gallery

Bill O’Brien and the Nittany Lions took to the practice field Wednesday afternoon for the latest installment of spring practice prior to the Blue White game. Here are just a few notes and photos from Wednesday’s action.

Big Boys: The offensive line continues to settle with Eric Shrive (LT), Miles Dieffenbach (LG), Ty Howle (C), John Urschel (RG), and Adam Gress (RT) getting first team reps. Weighing in at an average of 306 pounds Penn State could have another solid line under Mac McWhorter if things fall in to place. Newly converted tackle Gary Gilliam was out with a right calf injury.

No Leader Yet: Quarterbacks Steven Bench and Tyler Ferguson continue to improve and make strides in the ongoing quarterback race. Bench holds a noticeable amount of tangible leadership qualities and made a few nice throws. Ferguson continues to learn the system under O’Brien but has good velocity and spiral on his throws. Ferguson received more first-team reps in a drill early in the session but that could be a product of getting up to speed as much as it is an indication of his place in the quarterback race.

In the end, the race is too tight at this point to really call but in my opinion Bench probably holds a slim lead at this juncture.

Bad Luck: Freshman Tight End Adam Breneman was wearing a red no-contact jersey at practice and had his right arm heavily wrapped. Breneman is still recovering from ACL surgery this past summer but has no visible reduction in speed. He participated in all non-contact drills on Wednesday. 

Welcome Back: Former defensive back D’anton Lynn was spotted on the sideline again Wednesday. Lynn has been in town since Penn State’s Pro Day a few weeks ago.