Penn State Football 2018: Three Nittany Lions to Watch Against Illinois

STATE COLLEGE, PA - NOVEMBER 05: Tommy Stevens #2 of the Penn State Nittany Lions is congratulated after his touchdown run by Trace McSorley #9 and Irvin Charles #11 during the second half against the Iowa Hawkeyes on November 5, 2016 at Beaver Stadium in State College, Pennsylvania. Penn State defeats Iowa 41-14. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /

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COLLEGE PARK, MD – NOVEMBER 25: Quarterback Tommy Stevens /

Quarterback – Tommy Stevens

With the start of conference play, the Nittany Lions welcome back to the lineup backup quarterback Tommy Stevens. Stevens, who last saw game action in the Nittany Lions win over Washington in the Fiesta Bowl, has been sidelined with an injured foot.

Stevens has been in uniform for all three games this season, and, according to coach Franklin, he could have played last week if truly needed. So far this season he has ceded playing time to redshirt freshman Sean Clifford.

Penn State faithful know that Tommy Stevens is more than just a backup quarterback. His versatility as a passer, runner, and receiver even caused Penn State to create a special position for him – the LION.

In 2017, Stevens competed in nine games and recorded 190 rushing yards including four touchdowns. As a passer, Stevens was 14-of-27 for 158 yards and three scores. Finally, as a receiver, Tommy Stevens caught 12 passes for 60 yards and two touchdowns.

The Penn State coaching staff always has a number of specially designed plays that incorporates Stevens into the play. On Friday, look for the coaching staff to ease him back into game action. More than likely he will have his number of plays capped as they try and ramp him up for next week against Ohio State.

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