Penn State Football: Tommy Stevens return diversifies offense
The waiting game is over. Tommy Stevens made his announcement that he plans to return to state college. Penn State football fans can rejoice.
No one knew what to expect when Tommy Stevens missed practice early in spring camp. Rumors swirled. Fans feared the worst and the expected that he had transferred. Stevens looked and found no ideal suitor like the Nittany Lions. Penn State football fans waited on pins and needles and let out a collective sigh of relief when he revealed his plans to stay.
Stevens decision has a lot to unpack. First, it likely means he’ll finish his career at Penn State. After spending four years (including next year’s campaign as a backup) the job will be his to lose. He wouldn’t want to go anywhere other than stay at the ever-accelerating Lamborghini that is the Penn State offense.
Second, it means more Tommy Stevens on offense. He’ll no doubt get his reps in at a myriad of positions. Whether it’s at quarterback, running back, receiver or making tackles on special teams, he’ll help Penn State next year.
Within two years, he’ll start for the Nittany Lions. Even though it’ll be just one year, his knowledge of the playbook and skill set puts him in an elite class for one-year starters. He’ll give Penn State a strong-arm, athleticism and size at the quarterback position.
Trace McSorley is the perfect quarterback for him to watch for one more year, because he’ll hammer out all his mistakes over his three years behind Penn State’s soon-to-be career leading passer.
A fun thing to watch with the upcoming spring game will be his progression and use in different positions. I’m sure the Nittany Lions won’t unveil all the packages in a scrimmage – that is if he plays since he’s currently injured, but they could try him out in multiple areas.