Penn State Football: Position Grades versus Northwestern

EVANSTON, IL - OCTOBER 07: Trace McSorley
EVANSTON, IL - OCTOBER 07: Trace McSorley /
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EVANSTON, IL – OCTOBER 07: Trace McSorley #9 of the Penn State Nittany Lions passes against the Northwestern Wildcats at Ryan Field on October 7, 2017 in Evanston, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
EVANSTON, IL – OCTOBER 07: Trace McSorley #9 of the Penn State Nittany Lions passes against the Northwestern Wildcats at Ryan Field on October 7, 2017 in Evanston, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

Quarterbacks

Trace is back. Penn State football fans everywhere can breathe a sigh of relief after an up-and-down start. He connected on 25-of-34 attempts for 245 yards for one touchdown and zero interceptions. At one point, he connected on a school record 15 consecutive passes.

A lot of people see that yardage number and probably think it’s a little low for the Penn State football passing game. However, this air attack isn’t what it used to be. With Chris Godwin outside, the team could stretch the field a little more. Now, the Nittany Lions are attacking with accuracy and efficiency. It’s more patient instead of explosive.

The home run hitter can still excite and hit big plays, but he’s taking what the defense gives him and hitting bloop singles. After so much was said about his job, he all but locked it up this past week. This team can win with McSorley as its quarterback, like anyone needed a reminder. With a 17-3 record, his pedigree and ability should no longer be in question.

Tommy Stevens will be a great starter when it’s time, but this is Trace’s team and time to lead.

Grade: A