Penn State Football: Freshman Micah Parsons leading the way in tackles
Penn State football’s defense has made some transitions this year, and it’s come out with some new playmakers, including leading tackler Micah Parsons.
It took some time for the Penn State football defense to settle in. However, it’s done a much better job in recent weeks. Although the team lost seven defenders to the NFL, the program has reloaded with some youth and newcomers. One of the big names that many expected to breakout was linebacker Micah Parsons. The true freshman, five-star stud slotted himself into the rotation early in the year, and despite not being a listed starter, is leading the team in tackles (43).
What’s been even more impressive is his development across the season. After recording 23 tackles in the first five games, he’s rolled up 20 in the last three combined. As with any freshman, it takes some time to start seeing the field better and adjusting to the speed of the game.
Parsons didn’t need a lot of time. He’s an unreal athlete and has the versatility to play either defensive end or linebacker. And, Parsons proved that with his play in high school. He compiled 55 total tackles, 10.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles for loss in his senior year, while rushing for 1,239 yards and accounting for 29 total touchdowns at the same time.
His athleticism is so highly recognized that he’s looked at playing more positions for the Penn State football team and possibly wrestling for PSU this year according 247Sports.
The team slid in him into the lineup and put up solid production with four different linebackers, building for a solid future. This unit only loses one starter to graduation (Koa Farmer) while Parsons, Cam Brown and Jan Johnson all return to their spots. The trio has compiled 126 total tackles so far and should see those numbers rise up.
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Parsons’ production this early in his career makes for a greater chance for an upset in Ann Arbor this weekend, which Penn State desperately needs. If he can help the defense shutdown Shea Patterson and company, the sky is the limit for this group.