Penn State Football: Trace McSorley’s efficiency started with Northwestern
Trace McSorley has always played smart for Penn State football. However, his transition into an even more efficient passer started against Northwestern.
Throughout Penn State football’s undefeated start to 2017 season, the Nittany Lions displayed all the weapons in their multifaceted offense. In four of the first five games, Saquon Barkley slashed defenses with the run game and McSorley hadn’t found his stride just yet. Trying to find a new No. 1 wide out took some time. In game six against Northwestern, he found his stride for the rest of the season.
In a 31-7 win against the Wildcats, McSorley completed 25-of-34 passes for 245 yards and one touchdown. The Wildcats’ defense stuffed the rushing attack much of the game, forcing the offense to shift to the passing game. The only problem was that Northwestern continued to bring the pressure and attack McSorley in the backfield.
In the first two quarters, he took a beating. It paid off for Northwestern with some sacks and stalled drives, but McSorley got going after a while. He stayed within himself. The stage wasn’t too big, and he hit short strikes to methodically move the ball down the field.
Furthermore, he showed intelligent decision-making his quick throws. Most of his production came on out routes, and he hit them in a precise manner. When he did manage to miss the throw, he didn’t put it in harm’s way. McSorley threw it wide instead of missing inside which could result in ever-dangerous pick six. He delivered with plenty velocity when he needed to. (Video Courtesy of Cut Up Corner)
In a game where he ended up having 16 carries due to rushing attempts and sacks, his arm and stamina never wavered. He stood tall and poised in the pocket amidst rising pressure.
Looking at the rest of his season, McSorley put up five more outings with at least a 65 completion percentage or better. His interception ratio dipped to just 15-to-6 the rest of the way. The Northwestern game represents his improved play more than any other. He cut down the turnovers, took what the defense gave him and delivered Penn State football fans confidence that he could carry an offense by himself.
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After a successful 2017 campaign, his play carried on into the spring game. McSorley looked poised like a senior quarterback that will lead his team into another title contending season. He completed 10-of-14 passes for 107 yards, one touchdown and zero interceptions.