Penn State Nittany Lions vs. Kent State Golden Flashes Position Grades

Penn State vs. Kent State Position Grades

Sep 3, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin congratulates defensive end Shareef Miller (48) following a sack against Kent State Golden Flashes quarterback Justin Agner (not pictured) during the third quarter at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Kent State 33-13. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O /

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Sep 3, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Trace McSorley (9) throws a pass during the fourth quarter against the Kent State Golden Flashes at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Kent State 33-13. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren- USA TODAY Sports /

Quarterbacks

This week’s grade for the quarterbacks comes solely from the performance of Trace McSorley. Because the game was closer than Penn State would have liked, backup Tommy Stevens wasn’t able to get any meaningful snaps.

McSorley had an up-and-down day in his first collegiate start. He was clearly nervous at the beginning of the game and missed some throws that should have been made.

However, as the game went on, he did show better composure and made some good decisions both throwing and running the ball. In the end, he finished with over 200 yards and two touchdowns.

Most importantly, McSorley was smart with the football. He did have a fumble that resulted in a return for a touchdown, but there wasn’t really much he could do on that play.

There’s definitely room for improvement. He seemed to tire a bit near the end of the game and missed a few throws, including a would-be touchdown to Mike Gesicki.

Overall, McSorley had a successful debut as the starting quarterback in Happy Valley.

Grade: B

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