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Tommy Stevens could play a variety of roles for the Nittany Lions in the Fiesta Bowl

By Barry Leonard Jr.

UNIVERSITY PARK, PA - SEPTEMBER 02: Tommy Stevens #2 of the Penn State Nittany Lions is brought down by Deon'Tae Moore #56 of the Akron Zips during the second half, Moore was called for a personal foul on the play on September 2, 2017 at Beaver Stadium in University Park, Pennsylvania. Penn State defeats Akron 52-0. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
UNIVERSITY PARK, PA - SEPTEMBER 02: Tommy Stevens #2 of the Penn State Nittany Lions is brought down by Deon'Tae Moore #56 of the Akron Zips during the second half, Moore was called for a personal foul on the play on September 2, 2017 at Beaver Stadium in University Park, Pennsylvania. Penn State defeats Akron 52-0. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /
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Backup quarterback Tommy Stevens could be on the field in several different roles for Penn State in the Fiesta Bowl.

When Penn State released its official depth chart for the upcoming Fiesta Bowl against the Washington Huskies there was a significant change that stood out. Tommy Stevens, still listed as the backup quarterback behind Trace McSorley, also had his name listed as a starter at the Lion position.

Head coach James Franklin was of course asked about the new position during Friday’s Media Day at Beaver Stadium. “We want to treat him like a starter because that’s really what he is for us,” Franklin said.

Franklin raised some eyebrows when he explained that he sees Steven’s role expanding with the team.

"“He has brought up in the past about playing special teams. He’s brought up in the past about playing defense. He’s brought up in the past about coaching. He’s brought up in the past about everything. He just want to have as big of a role as he possibly can.”"

The head coach was sure to reiterate the he wasn’t joking about the use of Stevens. “When I say offense, defense, and special teams, I’m serious about that,” Franklin stated.

Stevens does have some experience playing defensive back in high school.

New special teams coordinator Phil Galiano was asked about the possibility of using Stevens on special teams during the Fiesta Bowl. He said that he definitely has ideas for the Fiesta Bowl, but didn’t want to give too much away to Washington.

Stevens has been a unique player for the Nittany Lions. Although listed as the backup quarterback, he’s seen most of his time on the field as both a running back and wide receiver. He has great athleticism and creates a matchup problem for opposing defenses. He has shown a great toughness to lower his head and get the extra yards, particularly near the goal line.

With just 194 career passing yards and 388 total rushing yards, Stevens is clearly a threat to make plays with his legs. Of his nine career touchdowns, six have been on the ground.

Next: DeAndre Thompkins season rewind

It’s still a bit unclear what exactly the Lion position is, but it appears that Stevens could find himself all over the field during the Fiesta Bowl.

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