Penn State football: 5 Players to watch vs Buffalo Bulls

STATE COLLEGE, PA - AUGUST 31: Sean Clifford #14 of the Penn State Nittany Lions throws a pass for a touchdown against the Idaho Vandals during the first half at Beaver Stadium on August 31, 2019 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
STATE COLLEGE, PA - AUGUST 31: Sean Clifford #14 of the Penn State Nittany Lions throws a pass for a touchdown against the Idaho Vandals during the first half at Beaver Stadium on August 31, 2019 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /
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STATE COLLEGE, PA – AUGUST 31: Devyn Ford #28 of the Penn State Nittany Lions celebrates with KJ Hamler #1 and Justin Shorter #6 after scoring a touchdown against the Idaho Vandals during the first half at Beaver Stadium on August 31, 2019 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
STATE COLLEGE, PA – AUGUST 31: Devyn Ford #28 of the Penn State Nittany Lions celebrates with KJ Hamler #1 and Justin Shorter #6 after scoring a touchdown against the Idaho Vandals during the first half at Beaver Stadium on August 31, 2019 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

Justin Shorter, WR

KJ Hamler is obviously expected to be the number one target once again for Penn State quarterback, Sean Clifford. But don’t bank on Hamler getting all of the work. This week, we’ll have to see Clifford spread the ball around more as he’s getting comfortable in his role.

Justin Shorter wasn’t a ghost last Saturday, as he did collect three receptions for 36 yards. But this week, we’re looking for more. The former five-star prospect, unfortunately, couldn’t get off to a red-hot start during his first season due to a season-ending injury.

This season though, Shorter is more motivated than ever. It’s clear he wants to shine. Last week, Shorter didn’t have any highlight-worthy catches, but he did get major props for his hustle on a long-running play where he made a key “block.”

It’s clear that Shorter will go above and beyond to contribute in all areas of the game, but don’t be surprised to see him start breaking out in the receiving game as defenses shift their attention towards Hamler, who’s already established himself to be a handful for defensive backs.