In typical circumstances, the pressure on Penn State wouldn’t be so high ahead of a matchup with a lackluster team like Kent State. But because of a near upset two weeks ago to Bowling Green, another MAC program, there’s an intensity by the Nittany Lions at practice to redefine themselves as a dominant team vying for a national title.
There’s an eye on Penn State’s young players to step up in what should be another opportunity to bench the starters early and create plentiful snaps for those who are inexperienced. That was supposed to be the case against the Falcons, but it didn’t turn out that way. There shouldn’t be an excuse if that game plan isn’t followed through this weekend.
Here’s a breakdown of what was learned and who stood out from Wednesday’s practice viewing session.
Where’s Winston?
For a second consecutive week, star safety Kevin Winston Jr. was absent during the team’s media viewing window. James Franklin did not give an update on his status Monday, 10 days after Winston exited with an injury against Bowling Green and did not return. It’s likely Winston’s status for Saturday is updated once Franklin addresses the media after practice Wednesday.
If Winston is unable to play or does so sparingly, that puts two players in the spotlight. Dejuan Lane, one of three freshmen to appear in a game this season, is likely to see increased time at safety. Cornerback Cam Miller, meanwhile, would likely shift to the nickel in a move that would revert primary nickel corner Jaylen Reed back to his traditional safety position.
Granville running with the big dogs
Max Granville should be a senior in high school. Instead, he’s running pass rushing drills with future NFL defensive ends, some of whom are five years older than him. If Penn State’s defense can dominate, unlike two weeks ago, Granville could make his college debut.
It appears the Nittany Lions are preparing Granville for that moment, having him take reps among a select group of edge rushers: Abdul Carter, Dani Dennis-Sutton, Smith Vilbert, Amin Vanover and Jordan Mayer. No defensive end other than Vilbert has a sack through two games, so Granville’s help is needed despite his young age.
Denmark, Fleming prepare for touches
Through two games, only three wide receivers have touched the ball. Ohio State transfer Julian Fleming is one of them, although his lone catch was only worth three yards. With an expected increase in overall offensive plays this weekend, Fleming should be highlighted by offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki as an emphasized weapon in the pass game.
Fleming looked about as sharp as always on Wednesday, and so did freshman Tyseer Denmark, who slipped and rebounded for a slick reception during a short-pass drill with the quarterback. Marques Hagans, the team’s wide receivers coach, was drenched in sweat as he involved himself in the drills as a makeshift defensive back.
“Be quick, but don’t rush!” Hagans yelled out to Denmark, who gave his coach a thumbs up days ahead of what could be his long-anticipated collegiate debut.
