Penn State vs. Temple Game Grades

Sep 5, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Christian Hackenberg (14) signals during the first quarter against the Temple Owls at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren- USA TODAY Sports

Quarterbacks

Before the season started, many predicted this would be a bounce back year for junior quarterback Christian Hackenberg.  Well that was not a good way to start it off.  For most of the game, Hackenberg was harassed, hit, and just plain got killed in the pocket.

Even on the rare occasion he had time to throw, he held onto the ball too long or he missed an open receiver.  He never looked comfortable. He overthrew one to DeSean Hamilton early in the second quarter that would have been a TD and a three-score lead.  We might be feeling different right now had Hackenberg put that throw on the money like we know he can.

You could see his complete frustration as Temple’s sack total increased.  While his poor performance is not all his fault, he is the leader of this offense and needs to step up.  I feel really bad for the kid, that he’s been subjected to this punishment by the offensive line and more so the coaching staff.  I just hope he doesn’t get seriously injured this year.

Grade: D

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