Big Ten: Paul Jones
Report: Rob Bolden staying at Penn State
May, 22, 2012
May 22
7:00
PM ET
By
Brian Bennett | ESPN.com
The rumor mill had been churning in high gear for the past several days that Penn State junior quarterback Rob Bolden would transfer.
But the Centre Daily Times reports that Bolden is staying with the Nittany Lions, quoting his high school position coach. Penn State officials also confirmed that Bolden was back on campus.
This, of course, is not the first time transfer rumors have swirled around Bolden. He seriously considered leaving after his freshman season, when he lost the starting job to Matt McGloin. Bolden started most of last season but rarely finished games and played less than McGloin, who took over the full-time starting job when Tom Bradley became interim head coach. Bolden did start the TicketCity Bowl for an injured McGloin but had a miserable day, completing just 7 of 26 passes and throwing three interceptions. For the season, he completed only 39.3 percent of his passes, tossing just two touchdowns and seven interceptions.
Bolden competed with McGloin and Paul Jones for the No. 1 job this spring with new coach Bill O'Brien giving everyone a clean slate. But by most accounts, Bolden appeared to have finished behind the other two guys. He did himself no favors by throwing three interceptions in the Penn State spring game.
It looks like Bolden is willing to tough it out and try to fight for playing time. While admiring his perseverance, you have to wonder if that's the best move for his career. Bolden simply hasn't shown the ability to be a top-flight quarterback the past two years, and he may find himself buried on the depth chart when freshman Steven Bench arrives. Penn State also has a commitment from Class of 2013 star quarterback Christian Hackenberg. Bolden may well be better off transferring to an FCS school where he could play right away, or even considering changing positions.
But maybe, just maybe, the light will go on for Bolden and he'll turn things around. Having him around certainly helps Penn State's depth at the position. And by staying put, Bolden is betting on himself.
But the Centre Daily Times reports that Bolden is staying with the Nittany Lions, quoting his high school position coach. Penn State officials also confirmed that Bolden was back on campus.
This, of course, is not the first time transfer rumors have swirled around Bolden. He seriously considered leaving after his freshman season, when he lost the starting job to Matt McGloin. Bolden started most of last season but rarely finished games and played less than McGloin, who took over the full-time starting job when Tom Bradley became interim head coach. Bolden did start the TicketCity Bowl for an injured McGloin but had a miserable day, completing just 7 of 26 passes and throwing three interceptions. For the season, he completed only 39.3 percent of his passes, tossing just two touchdowns and seven interceptions.
Bolden competed with McGloin and Paul Jones for the No. 1 job this spring with new coach Bill O'Brien giving everyone a clean slate. But by most accounts, Bolden appeared to have finished behind the other two guys. He did himself no favors by throwing three interceptions in the Penn State spring game.
It looks like Bolden is willing to tough it out and try to fight for playing time. While admiring his perseverance, you have to wonder if that's the best move for his career. Bolden simply hasn't shown the ability to be a top-flight quarterback the past two years, and he may find himself buried on the depth chart when freshman Steven Bench arrives. Penn State also has a commitment from Class of 2013 star quarterback Christian Hackenberg. Bolden may well be better off transferring to an FCS school where he could play right away, or even considering changing positions.
But maybe, just maybe, the light will go on for Bolden and he'll turn things around. Having him around certainly helps Penn State's depth at the position. And by staying put, Bolden is betting on himself.
Video: Penn State's quarterback battle
May, 22, 2012
May 22
10:00
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Adam Rittenberg talks about the quarterback competition at Penn State.
Bill O'Brien energized by PSU caravan tour
May, 17, 2012
May 17
1:00
PM ET
By
Brian Bennett | ESPN.com
May is a time when many coaches take a little breather, decompressing after spring practice and maybe enjoy some time off.
Not so for new Penn State coach Bill O'Brien. When ESPN.com caught up to O'Brien on Wednesday for a phone interview, he was on a bus en route to Buffalo, N.Y., for the 18th and final stop on the Nittany Lions' coaches caravan. O'Brien went to every event, a three-week whirlwind that saw him visit seven different states, including stops in Cleveland, Washington, D.C., New York City, Richmond, Va., and Hartford, Conn.
O'Brien really hasn't had much down time in a while, as he headed straight to State College after coaching the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl in February. But he didn't sound much worse for the wear.
"I've got a lot of energy," he said. "I've been traveling with a great group of people, and the turnouts energize us."
O'Brien and other Penn State coaches were greeted by some large crowds, including more than 900 who came out to the event in Scranton, Pa. There has been a lot of curiosity about the man who's taking over for Joe Paterno, and that's a major reason why O'Brien decided to embark on the journey.
"Since I was hired, I felt like something I had to do after spring practice was get out there, meet people and talk about our vision for the program," he said. "Every stop, there have been 400-to-500 people, at least. So there's no question that it's a far-reaching program, and that's good because we're going to recruit in the six-to-seven hour driving distance area. So it's good to be able to get out into our recruiting areas, too."
The caravan, of course, had another purpose. After the ugly Jerry Sandusky scandal and controversy over Paterno's ouster, Penn State needed a goodwill tour to help the healing process along.
"I think it definitely helps," O'Brien said. "Like I've said, I wasn't here in November. My staff wasn't here. But we're well aware of what happened in November. So I definitely think it helps to get out and meet people and make sure people understand where we're headed."
Even with the controversy as a backdrop, most Penn State fans just wanted to talk about football. O'Brien was peppered with questions about the Nittany Lions' quarterback competition, whether he'll maintain the program's traditions and uniforms and scheduling.
"People can't wait to get going and for the season to start," O'Brien said. "I definitely sense a lot of excitement."
But O'Brien and his staff have a lot of work to do before Sept. 1. One of the first orders of business is selecting a starting quarterback from the trio of Matt McGloin, Rob Bolden and Paul Jones. O'Brien said he plans to name a starter in early June.
"One of the things I try to make clear to people is that the day after the Blue-White Game, the coaches left for recruiting," he said. "We haven't even had a chance as a staff to sit down and talk about spring practice, about depth charts at any position. So I want to have a chance to sit down with the staff when they get back at the end of May, and then we'll have something soon after that."
A report from the Cleveland caravan quoted quarterbacks coach Charlie Fisher as saying McGloin was the leader in the race. Asked about that, O'Brien joked, "I'll have to talk to Charlie about that one," before emphasizing again that the staff has to meet to discuss the quarterback situation.
O'Brien and his coaches have begun their preparations for their first few opponents of 2012. He said the team "got a lot done" in the spring but still needs to have a big summer and training camp.
"I think our kids know the tempo we want to practice with," he said. "We have a better feel for the football team, that's for sure. Our kids have started to grasp the terminology and other things."
O'Brien got a grasp on the Penn State fan base during the caravan tour, and vice versa. It might not have been as relaxing as some time off, but he saw it as a very valuable experience worth repeating in the future.
"We'll do something like this again," he said. "But I don't know if it will be 18 stops."
Not so for new Penn State coach Bill O'Brien. When ESPN.com caught up to O'Brien on Wednesday for a phone interview, he was on a bus en route to Buffalo, N.Y., for the 18th and final stop on the Nittany Lions' coaches caravan. O'Brien went to every event, a three-week whirlwind that saw him visit seven different states, including stops in Cleveland, Washington, D.C., New York City, Richmond, Va., and Hartford, Conn.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Keith SrakocicCoach Bill O'Brien has worked tirelessly to build a strong relationship with the Penn State fan base.
AP Photo/Keith SrakocicCoach Bill O'Brien has worked tirelessly to build a strong relationship with the Penn State fan base."I've got a lot of energy," he said. "I've been traveling with a great group of people, and the turnouts energize us."
O'Brien and other Penn State coaches were greeted by some large crowds, including more than 900 who came out to the event in Scranton, Pa. There has been a lot of curiosity about the man who's taking over for Joe Paterno, and that's a major reason why O'Brien decided to embark on the journey.
"Since I was hired, I felt like something I had to do after spring practice was get out there, meet people and talk about our vision for the program," he said. "Every stop, there have been 400-to-500 people, at least. So there's no question that it's a far-reaching program, and that's good because we're going to recruit in the six-to-seven hour driving distance area. So it's good to be able to get out into our recruiting areas, too."
The caravan, of course, had another purpose. After the ugly Jerry Sandusky scandal and controversy over Paterno's ouster, Penn State needed a goodwill tour to help the healing process along.
"I think it definitely helps," O'Brien said. "Like I've said, I wasn't here in November. My staff wasn't here. But we're well aware of what happened in November. So I definitely think it helps to get out and meet people and make sure people understand where we're headed."
Even with the controversy as a backdrop, most Penn State fans just wanted to talk about football. O'Brien was peppered with questions about the Nittany Lions' quarterback competition, whether he'll maintain the program's traditions and uniforms and scheduling.
"People can't wait to get going and for the season to start," O'Brien said. "I definitely sense a lot of excitement."
But O'Brien and his staff have a lot of work to do before Sept. 1. One of the first orders of business is selecting a starting quarterback from the trio of Matt McGloin, Rob Bolden and Paul Jones. O'Brien said he plans to name a starter in early June.
"One of the things I try to make clear to people is that the day after the Blue-White Game, the coaches left for recruiting," he said. "We haven't even had a chance as a staff to sit down and talk about spring practice, about depth charts at any position. So I want to have a chance to sit down with the staff when they get back at the end of May, and then we'll have something soon after that."
A report from the Cleveland caravan quoted quarterbacks coach Charlie Fisher as saying McGloin was the leader in the race. Asked about that, O'Brien joked, "I'll have to talk to Charlie about that one," before emphasizing again that the staff has to meet to discuss the quarterback situation.
O'Brien and his coaches have begun their preparations for their first few opponents of 2012. He said the team "got a lot done" in the spring but still needs to have a big summer and training camp.
"I think our kids know the tempo we want to practice with," he said. "We have a better feel for the football team, that's for sure. Our kids have started to grasp the terminology and other things."
O'Brien got a grasp on the Penn State fan base during the caravan tour, and vice versa. It might not have been as relaxing as some time off, but he saw it as a very valuable experience worth repeating in the future.
"We'll do something like this again," he said. "But I don't know if it will be 18 stops."
2011 overall record: 9-4
2011 conference record: 6-2 (T-first, Leaders division)
Returning starters: Offense: 5; defense: 4; kicker/punter: 2
Top returners
LB Gerald Hodges, DT Jordan Hill, LB Michael Mauti, S Malcolm Willis, CB Stephon Morris, RB Silas Redd, WR Justin Brown, C Matt Stankiewitch
Key losses
DT Devon Still, DE Jack Crawford, S Nick Sukay, CB Chaz Powell, LB Nathan Stupar, T Quinn Barham, G Johnnie Troutman, WR Derek Moye, T Chima Okoli
2011 statistical leaders (*returners)
Rushing: Silas Redd* (1,241 yards)
Passing: Matthew McGloin* (1,571 yards)
Receiving: Derek Moye (654 yards)
Tackles: Gerald Hodges* (106)
Sacks: Jack Crawford (6.5)
Interceptions: Nick Sukay (3)
Spring answers
1. Offensive line taking shape: Penn State's offensive line has underachieved to varying degrees since 2008, and with only one starter back (Stankiewitch), there were concerns entering the spring. But after a strong winter in the new strength program -- no group benefited more than the offensive linemen -- the front five performed well during the spring session. Junior Adam Gress emerged as the answer at left tackle, and John Urschel locked up a starting spot at right guard.
2. Hodges primed for huge season: After earning first-team All-Big Ten honors in 2011, linebacker Gerald Hodges made more strides this spring. He moved to the strongside position -- one he notes previous Lions stars have played as seniors -- and consistently looked like the best player on the field during practices. Penn State could have the Big Ten's top linebacking corps in 2012, and Hodges will be leading the charge.
3. Redd alert: While Hodges and defensive tackle Jordan Hill are the defensive stars, junior running back Silas Redd will be the team's primary offensive weapon for the second consecutive season. Redd already has reinvented himself at Penn State, going from a small, shifty back to a bigger, workhorse type. His next step: "Combine those together -- when I need to stiff-arm a guy, when I need to make a guy miss, when I need to run through an arm tackle -- and become a more complete back," Redd told ESPN.com. He certainly looked like an All-Big Ten back this spring.
Fall questions
1. Quarterback, quarterback, quarterback: Penn State entered the spring with a three-man race at quarterback and left the spring with very little resolved under center. New coach Bill O'Brien wants to reduce the candidate pool from three to two, but the competition will continue into the first part of camp. O'Brien is dealing with quarterbacks who are either unproven (Paul Jones) or needing improvement (Matthew McGloin, Rob Bolden). Add in the fact the quarterback are still absorbing O'Brien's complex offense and it means a lot of work must be done in August.
2. The Patriot Act: Speaking of O'Brien's offense, it remains very much a work in progress as Penn State's players learn a system used by the New England Patriots in 2011. O'Brien's approach this spring was to throw a very dense playbook at his new team and see what sticks. It'll be important for Penn State to identify what it can run effectively during preseason camp and fine-tune those plays as much as possible before Sept. 1.
3. Filling out the secondary: Penn State's defensive front seven will be the strength of the team in 2012, but the Lions lose all four starters in the secondary and need to build depth there. Some nice pieces return in safety Malcolm Willis and cornerback Stephon Morris, but Penn State will be looking for more from guys like Adrian Amos, Stephen Obeng-Agyapong and Curtis Drake, who moved from wide receiver to cornerback this spring. If the secondary can hold its own, Penn State's defense could be scary good this fall.
2011 conference record: 6-2 (T-first, Leaders division)
Returning starters: Offense: 5; defense: 4; kicker/punter: 2
Top returners
LB Gerald Hodges, DT Jordan Hill, LB Michael Mauti, S Malcolm Willis, CB Stephon Morris, RB Silas Redd, WR Justin Brown, C Matt Stankiewitch
Key losses
DT Devon Still, DE Jack Crawford, S Nick Sukay, CB Chaz Powell, LB Nathan Stupar, T Quinn Barham, G Johnnie Troutman, WR Derek Moye, T Chima Okoli
2011 statistical leaders (*returners)
Rushing: Silas Redd* (1,241 yards)
Passing: Matthew McGloin* (1,571 yards)
Receiving: Derek Moye (654 yards)
Tackles: Gerald Hodges* (106)
Sacks: Jack Crawford (6.5)
Interceptions: Nick Sukay (3)
Spring answers
1. Offensive line taking shape: Penn State's offensive line has underachieved to varying degrees since 2008, and with only one starter back (Stankiewitch), there were concerns entering the spring. But after a strong winter in the new strength program -- no group benefited more than the offensive linemen -- the front five performed well during the spring session. Junior Adam Gress emerged as the answer at left tackle, and John Urschel locked up a starting spot at right guard.
2. Hodges primed for huge season: After earning first-team All-Big Ten honors in 2011, linebacker Gerald Hodges made more strides this spring. He moved to the strongside position -- one he notes previous Lions stars have played as seniors -- and consistently looked like the best player on the field during practices. Penn State could have the Big Ten's top linebacking corps in 2012, and Hodges will be leading the charge.
3. Redd alert: While Hodges and defensive tackle Jordan Hill are the defensive stars, junior running back Silas Redd will be the team's primary offensive weapon for the second consecutive season. Redd already has reinvented himself at Penn State, going from a small, shifty back to a bigger, workhorse type. His next step: "Combine those together -- when I need to stiff-arm a guy, when I need to make a guy miss, when I need to run through an arm tackle -- and become a more complete back," Redd told ESPN.com. He certainly looked like an All-Big Ten back this spring.
Fall questions
1. Quarterback, quarterback, quarterback: Penn State entered the spring with a three-man race at quarterback and left the spring with very little resolved under center. New coach Bill O'Brien wants to reduce the candidate pool from three to two, but the competition will continue into the first part of camp. O'Brien is dealing with quarterbacks who are either unproven (Paul Jones) or needing improvement (Matthew McGloin, Rob Bolden). Add in the fact the quarterback are still absorbing O'Brien's complex offense and it means a lot of work must be done in August.
2. The Patriot Act: Speaking of O'Brien's offense, it remains very much a work in progress as Penn State's players learn a system used by the New England Patriots in 2011. O'Brien's approach this spring was to throw a very dense playbook at his new team and see what sticks. It'll be important for Penn State to identify what it can run effectively during preseason camp and fine-tune those plays as much as possible before Sept. 1.
3. Filling out the secondary: Penn State's defensive front seven will be the strength of the team in 2012, but the Lions lose all four starters in the secondary and need to build depth there. Some nice pieces return in safety Malcolm Willis and cornerback Stephon Morris, but Penn State will be looking for more from guys like Adrian Amos, Stephen Obeng-Agyapong and Curtis Drake, who moved from wide receiver to cornerback this spring. If the secondary can hold its own, Penn State's defense could be scary good this fall.
Happy birthday to Rogers Hornsby, Ulysses S. Grant, Enos Slaughter, George "Iceman" Gervin, Chris Carpenter, Sheena Easton and ... I know I'm forgetting somebody. Who could it be?
- Illinois scored its first major recruiting victory with a commitment from dual-threat quarterback Aaron Bailey. A.J. Jenkins was caught off guard when he joined teammate Whitney Mercilus in the first round.
- Iowa got the go ahead to build phase two of its new football facility. Riley Reiff followed in the footsteps of Bryan Bulaga.
- Ryan Van Bergen has been told he'll go in the sixth round.
- Michigan State fans will get a long look at Connor Cook in the spring game, because there's no other quarterback to look at.
- Lavonte David will have to wait another day to be drafted.
- For just the fifth time in 14 years, Ohio State didn't have a first-round pick.
- Is Paul Jones getting too much hype at Penn State? Fourth-string, senior quarterback Shane McGregor still has hope of making an impact.
- Tom Dienhart has a Q&A with Indiana coach Kevin Wilson.
- Lloyd Carr as Wisconsin coach? It might have happened, had Barry Alvarez turned down the Badgers. Wisconsin defensive tackle Jordan Kohout shares his Muslim views on Twitter.
- A high school kicker accepted a preferred walk-on position at Northwestern.
- Scroll down this Sid Hartman column to find an item about high season-ticket renewals at Minnesota.
- Purdue's Ricardo Allen challenged his Twitter followers to play him on NCAA Football 2012, and so far he's beat them all.
Bye, bye, Blackhawks. You made this mess, Stan. Time to clean it up.
- New Minnesota AD Norwood Teague has to sell hope at the U. Minnesota hit a home run with Teague, Charley Walters writes. Teague's lack of football experience doesn't make him a poor choice, Chip Scoggins writes.
- No surprise here as Montee Ball won't play in Wisconsin's spring game Saturday. Some Badgers notes from coach Bret Bielema's news conference.
- Quarterback Matthew McGloin discusses Penn State's new offense in this Q&A. Paul Jones is very much a part of the team's quarterback competition. Penn State's mostly new coaching staff will be sporting a different look on the sideline.
- Michigan State and Michigan aren't shying away from tough nonconference foes. BTN.com's Tom Dienhart ranks the nonconference slates.
- Ohio State's big April on the recruiting trail continues. A spring game report card for the Buckeyes. Doug Lesmerises had better give Jim Tressel his sweater back after sharing his thoughts on Buckeyes football.
- Iowa's NFL draft prospects on defense have to prove themselves. The Hawkeyes' recruiting roll continues.
- Chris Spielman talks about his very personal new book.
- Alcohol will be served at Minnesota's TCF Bank Stadium in special tents through halftime of games.
- Nebraska cornerback Alfonzo Dennard posts bond after being charged with felony assault. Dennard's troubles will test NFL teams' faith in Nebraska, which typically supplies solid defensive backs to the league.
- Some bad news for Michigan tight end and draft prospect Kevin Koger, who will be out 6-8 weeks with a partially torn Achilles. The Wolverines hope to add a coveted linebacker to their recruiting class today.
- Michigan State beat writer Joe Rexrode weighs in on Arkansas' hiring of John L. Smith.
- Some Illinois football notes in John Supinie's latest piece.
- The Orlando Sentinel looks at Indiana heading into the 2012 season.
- Northwestern players get dizzy with it after the spring game.
Bennett vs. yours truly in the circle drill. Who ya got?
- The Big Ten's primary playoff interests -- maintaining the Rose Bowl's prestige and having semifinals on campus -- don't seem to be catching on, Teddy Greenstein writes. Wisconsin AD Barry Alvarez is intimately involved in the BCS playoff discussions. The Big Ten will have a big voice in this week's BCS meetings, Dennis Dodd writes.
- Big Ten ticket prices are on the rise, Matt Charboneau writes. The Star Tribune's Phil Miller wraps up spring ball in the Big Ten.
- The man likely to be named Minnesota's next AD knows his hoops but raises some doubts on the football side.
- A story I can't read enough -- the amazing comeback of Michigan State's Arthur Ray Jr. More on Ray here. Spartans DT Anthony Rashad White adjusts to the 3-technique.
- It won't happen this year, but I agree with Angelique Chengelis that a Michigan State-Michigan night game would be amazing.
- After winning over many Penn State fans, Bill O'Brien needs Ws on the field this fall. A poor spring game performance could hurt Rob Bolden in Penn State's quarterback race, while Paul Jones is certainly in the picture. Penn State will host UMass in 2014.
- Ohio State center Corey Linsley is a changed man. The circle drill set the tone for Urban Meyer's first spring game at Ohio State. Everything about the game showed change has come to Columbus.
- Illinois' three coordinators weigh in on their groups after the spring. Young offensive line coach Luke Butkus has a challenge ahead of him.
- Quarterback Joel Stave worked with Wisconsin's first-team offense for all of Saturday's scrimmage. Wisconsin's reputation as an offensive line factory has reached north of the border.
- Iowa had a productive weekend on the recruiting trail. The "bubble" is no more, and Iowa's facilities plan is moving forward.
- Nebraska's Alfonzo Dennard thrives on proving people wrong, and he'll have to do it again after this weekend's mishap. The Huskers pick up another recruit from the alma mater of Bo Pelini and Tim Beck.
- Linebacker Brandin Hawthorne looks comfortable as Michigan's man in the middle. Michigan defensive coordinator Greg Mattison helped boost Mike Martin's draft stock.
- Six storylines for Purdue's offense coming out of the spring.
There were three spring games in the Big Ten over the weekend, and we're going to break down all of them over the course of the day. First up is Penn State.
You can find coverage of the Nittany Lions' spring game here, here, here and here.
Star of the game: Freshman defensive end Brad Bars had four tackles for loss, including two sacks. Bill Belton rushed for 53 yards and a touchdown for the offense.
How it went down: Fans got their first glimpse of the new era of Penn State football as the defense beat the offense 77-65 in the Beaver Stadium debut of head coach Bill O'Brien. A crowd estimated at 60,000 turned out for the game, which used a modified scoring system.
No doubt most people were curious to see how the quarterback competition was going and how those guys looked in the new offense. The results were, predictably, mixed. Matt McGloin completed 6 of 13 passes for 105 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Rob Bolden went 7-of-14 but had three interceptions. Paul Jones was 6-of-15 for 113 yards, with a touchdown and an interception.
"We've asked them to learn a system that's totally different than anything they've ever learned, and that takes time," O'Brien said. "And different guys learn at different rates. Some guys get it right away, other guys get it the next day, other guys get it two days from now. So we have to let it soak a little bit, let it soak for ourselves as a staff, and then we'll make a decision headed into training camp on who we're going with or who the top two are."
O'Brien said that fans saw 10 percent of his offensive playbook on Saturday.
"I understand the offense they've given us so far," McGloin said. "[O'Brien] has thrown the whole playbook at us, and we've run a million things in practice and we understand it very well. It's an exciting offense and it's going to take the whole summer to learn, but once we get it down it's going to be very fun to watch us play."
Not surprisingly, the Nittany Lions' defense looked ahead of the offense. It forced five total interceptions and had eight sacks and 13 tackles for loss. Defensive end C.J. Olaniyan had three of those sacks, while Ben Kline, Adrian Amos, Devin Pryor, Jordan Hill and Jesse Della Valle each grabbed interceptions.
Allen Robinson led the team with 87 receiving yards, while Matt Lehman and Christian Kuntz each caught touchdown passes. Star tailback Silas Redd did not play.
Cornerback Stephon Morris and center Matt Stankiewitch were named the team's most improved defensive and offensive players of the spring.
"I felt it was pretty good, and I think it was exciting for the fans at times," O'Brien said of the spring game. "I'm not saying it was the most exciting game in the world, but I said it wasn't going to be the most exciting game in the world. But again, it was great to see all the fans out there, and I think it was a good day for Penn State football."
You can find coverage of the Nittany Lions' spring game here, here, here and here.
Star of the game: Freshman defensive end Brad Bars had four tackles for loss, including two sacks. Bill Belton rushed for 53 yards and a touchdown for the offense.
How it went down: Fans got their first glimpse of the new era of Penn State football as the defense beat the offense 77-65 in the Beaver Stadium debut of head coach Bill O'Brien. A crowd estimated at 60,000 turned out for the game, which used a modified scoring system.
No doubt most people were curious to see how the quarterback competition was going and how those guys looked in the new offense. The results were, predictably, mixed. Matt McGloin completed 6 of 13 passes for 105 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Rob Bolden went 7-of-14 but had three interceptions. Paul Jones was 6-of-15 for 113 yards, with a touchdown and an interception.
"We've asked them to learn a system that's totally different than anything they've ever learned, and that takes time," O'Brien said. "And different guys learn at different rates. Some guys get it right away, other guys get it the next day, other guys get it two days from now. So we have to let it soak a little bit, let it soak for ourselves as a staff, and then we'll make a decision headed into training camp on who we're going with or who the top two are."
O'Brien said that fans saw 10 percent of his offensive playbook on Saturday.
"I understand the offense they've given us so far," McGloin said. "[O'Brien] has thrown the whole playbook at us, and we've run a million things in practice and we understand it very well. It's an exciting offense and it's going to take the whole summer to learn, but once we get it down it's going to be very fun to watch us play."
Not surprisingly, the Nittany Lions' defense looked ahead of the offense. It forced five total interceptions and had eight sacks and 13 tackles for loss. Defensive end C.J. Olaniyan had three of those sacks, while Ben Kline, Adrian Amos, Devin Pryor, Jordan Hill and Jesse Della Valle each grabbed interceptions.
Allen Robinson led the team with 87 receiving yards, while Matt Lehman and Christian Kuntz each caught touchdown passes. Star tailback Silas Redd did not play.
Cornerback Stephon Morris and center Matt Stankiewitch were named the team's most improved defensive and offensive players of the spring.
"I felt it was pretty good, and I think it was exciting for the fans at times," O'Brien said of the spring game. "I'm not saying it was the most exciting game in the world, but I said it wasn't going to be the most exciting game in the world. But again, it was great to see all the fans out there, and I think it was a good day for Penn State football."
Three spring games are on tap Saturday around the Big Ten, and we're taking a look at each one.
Let's examine the Blue-White Game presented by AAA at Penn State, the team's first under new head coach Bill O'Brien.
When: 2 p.m. ET, Saturday
Where: Beaver Stadium
Admission: Free. Game day parking is free in lots around the stadium, and lots open at 8 a.m. ET. Stadium gates A and B open at 11:30 a.m. for pregame autograph session.
TV: The game will be streamed live on both BTN2Go and the Big Ten Digital Network. The Big Ten Network will broadcast the game on tape-delay at 8 p.m. ET Saturday.
Weather forecast: Cloudy with showers likely, temperatures between 53-59 degrees, 50 percent chance of rain, winds at 9-12 mph.
What to watch for: Penn State will send its offense against its defense and use a modified scoring system detailed here. The defense will wear blue jerseys, while the offense, aside from the quarterbacks, will wear white.
Saturday marks the first chance for Penn State fans to see their team since O'Brien and his staff arrived on campus. It's one of many historic firsts for O'Brien, who takes over for the late Joe Paterno. O'Brien has made it clear he won't show too much, telling ESPN.com last week, "I wouldn't say it's going to be a dazzling show." Still, it's a chance for Nittany Nation to get a glimpse of the new offense, which will operate at a much faster pace and mix formations and personnel in new ways. O'Brien's philosophy this spring has been to throw everything at his players and see what sticks. The game should provide some clues about what the players can handle.
All eyes will be on the three quarterbacks -- Rob Bolden, Matthew McGloin and Paul Jones -- competing for the starting job. O'Brien wants to reduce the candidate pool from three to two at the end of spring ball, but has repeatedly said there's no separation right now. After watching Bolden and McGloin struggle the past few seasons, most fans seem to be partial to Jones, a gifted sophomore who has yet to play a game because of academic problems. The offensive line is another interesting position to watch, as O'Brien has been pleasantly surprised by the group this spring. O'Brien also will feature the tight ends in bigger roles, so it will be worth tracking Garry Gilliam.
The changes on defense shouldn't be overlooked, as new coordinator Ted Roof installs a new system. The front seven could be very strong, particularly defensive tackle Jordan Hill and linebacker Gerald Hodges, but there are some question marks in the secondary as Penn State needs to build depth there.
Let's examine the Blue-White Game presented by AAA at Penn State, the team's first under new head coach Bill O'Brien.
When: 2 p.m. ET, Saturday
Where: Beaver Stadium
Admission: Free. Game day parking is free in lots around the stadium, and lots open at 8 a.m. ET. Stadium gates A and B open at 11:30 a.m. for pregame autograph session.
TV: The game will be streamed live on both BTN2Go and the Big Ten Digital Network. The Big Ten Network will broadcast the game on tape-delay at 8 p.m. ET Saturday.
Weather forecast: Cloudy with showers likely, temperatures between 53-59 degrees, 50 percent chance of rain, winds at 9-12 mph.
What to watch for: Penn State will send its offense against its defense and use a modified scoring system detailed here. The defense will wear blue jerseys, while the offense, aside from the quarterbacks, will wear white.
Saturday marks the first chance for Penn State fans to see their team since O'Brien and his staff arrived on campus. It's one of many historic firsts for O'Brien, who takes over for the late Joe Paterno. O'Brien has made it clear he won't show too much, telling ESPN.com last week, "I wouldn't say it's going to be a dazzling show." Still, it's a chance for Nittany Nation to get a glimpse of the new offense, which will operate at a much faster pace and mix formations and personnel in new ways. O'Brien's philosophy this spring has been to throw everything at his players and see what sticks. The game should provide some clues about what the players can handle.
All eyes will be on the three quarterbacks -- Rob Bolden, Matthew McGloin and Paul Jones -- competing for the starting job. O'Brien wants to reduce the candidate pool from three to two at the end of spring ball, but has repeatedly said there's no separation right now. After watching Bolden and McGloin struggle the past few seasons, most fans seem to be partial to Jones, a gifted sophomore who has yet to play a game because of academic problems. The offensive line is another interesting position to watch, as O'Brien has been pleasantly surprised by the group this spring. O'Brien also will feature the tight ends in bigger roles, so it will be worth tracking Garry Gilliam.
The changes on defense shouldn't be overlooked, as new coordinator Ted Roof installs a new system. The front seven could be very strong, particularly defensive tackle Jordan Hill and linebacker Gerald Hodges, but there are some question marks in the secondary as Penn State needs to build depth there.
Enjoy the spring game festivities this weekend in Ann Arbor, Lincoln, Iowa City, Evanston, West Lafayette, Champaign and Bloomington. We'll be recapping all the games Monday.
David from Lancaster, Pa., writes: Hey Adam,Love it when you guys go visiting campus and we get more in-depth coverage of each team. I heard you were on a local radio show in Nebraska and said you came away from your Penn State visit thinking Bolden is a slight favorite for the QB job. Care to provide further details on why you feel this way? I think many PSU fans are surprised to hear this.
Adam Rittenberg: David, I only saw one practice, but after reading about and hearing all the Paul Jones hype this spring, I somewhat expected to see Jones separating himself from Rob Bolden and Matthew McGloin. That hasn't happened. Bill O'Brien isn't giving you a line when he says, "Right now, there's no separation." From what I saw, Jones, like the others, still has a way to go in picking up the new offense. Bolden had the best day when I was there, and delivered some terrific passes into tight coverage. But he also had some brain-cramps, like we've seen in games. I get that Penn State fans want to see something different, and Jones fits into that category. He hasn't played in a game and boasts some nice natural skills. And he could emerge as the guy in 2012. But I think folks should pump the brakes a bit on him, and be at least open to the idea that Bolden wins the job. Because it could happen. I'd be somewhat surprised if Bolden isn't in the final two after spring.
Mike from Witchita writes: This blog seems to love pointing out that Nebraska hasn't won a conference title since 1999 but when comparing NU to Big Ten teams, but just something to think about: if you look back at Nebraska and use Big Ten rules to determine conference champions, Nebraska would have raised conference title banners in 2001, 2006 & 2010. Having a single conference champion makes titles scarcer even for powerhouses like the Big Ten's 2nd winningest program. The last decade was obviously Nebraska's worst since the 1950s but just think how many Big Ten programs would kill to have 3 conference championships
Adam Rittenberg: There's no joy in pointing it out, Mike, but when players are openly discussing the national championship, it's important to mention Nebraska would be skipping a step or two. I think Nebraska has a lot of respect within the Big Ten, despite some struggles during the Bill Callahan years. I agree that leagues with championship games are harder to win, and I'm delighted we don't have to deal with co-champions any more. To be fair, though, if we used the old Big Ten rules between 1995-2011, you'd have eight Big Ten squads with two or more "titles": Ohio State, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Northwestern, Michigan State and Penn State.
Sam from Iowa City, Iowa, writes: Thank you for answering my question about KF and your time in IC, Adam. I see your point. But I'm still not convinced KF places a high enough priority on the BIG picture to suit my hopes for Iowa. Sure, KF would like to see the team win it all. But I don't get the sense "lets go to the Rose Bowl!" is a rallying cry in KF's locker room. The "Beat the Rock" mentality is great for individual excellence and when it comes together, Iowa can have magical seasons. But I believe it really limits the program as a whole.
Adam Rittenberg: Ferentz is a realist, which can be tough for fans to hear. Fans are, with few exceptions, always going to think their team has a higher ceiling than it actually does. Ferentz always has been very honest about the limits Iowa has, but I also don't think he tells his players not to dream big. They have to work at it, perhaps more so than teams that recruit better and have nicer facilities and have a more storied tradition, but Iowa has shown in seasons like 2002 and 2009 that it can compete at an elite level. It also doesn't necessarily help a coach to set the bar ridiculously high and then fall short of it. That's how a lot of coaches get fired. And Ferentz has been masterful in securing his position in Iowa City.
AJ from Madison, Wis., writes: Do you see the arrival of Urban Meyer and Bill O'Brien, as well as the recent surge of Michigan State's pass-oriented offense, changing the way the B1G plays defense in the next few years? On the whole, we've always played an extremely run-oriented game, and I gotta believe that the number of running backs, linebackers, and O and D-linemen the conference sends to the draft dwarfs the amount of QB's, wide receivers, and DB's that go. But Meyer's putting in the spread, and we all know what Bill O'Brien did with the Patriots. Throw in a strong passing game from MSU, and I think this will be a very different league in 5-7 years.
Adam Rittenberg: AJ, that's an interesting question. The Big Ten's recent draft output has been extremely defense-heavy. But we could very well see more offensive skill players selected in the coming years. Penn State hasn't had a quarterback drafted since 1997 -- that should change under O'Brien. Michigan State will have a quarterback (Kirk Cousins) drafted fairly high in April, and two Spartans receivers (B.J. Cunningham and Keshawn Martin) also should be selected. I don't think defensive back is as glaring as quarterback or wide receiver, but it will be a position to watch. I'm really interested to see what impact Meyer will have on Ohio State's draft hopefuls. You can also add in Michigan, which will play more of a pro-style offense beginning in 2013.
Back to your original question about the style of defense in the Big Ten. I don't know how dramatically it will change, although the types of players recruited to play defense in the league could change. We won't see as many boxy linebackers, and teams are certainly looking for speed wherever they can find it. Some people say the Big Ten isn't athletic enough along the defensive line, but the league has produced more than its share of pro linemen in recent years.
Charlie from Chicago writes: Hey Adam, I have seen you write several times lately that you believe Nick Saban is the best college coach in the country. I do not disagree with you, but I was wondering if you could elaborate on your reasoning.
Adam Rittenberg: He's very complete and thorough in his approach. Alabama recruits at an extremely high level, as do several other programs in the SEC and in other conferences. But the Tide also develops players extremely well, and that's what resonates with me. There are some great recruiters who are a little short in the talent development. In the Big Ten, there are a lot of great talent developers who fall a little short in the recruiting arena. Saban excels in both. He takes players with obvious talent and has them play the right way, particularly on defense. And his teams are always prepared for big games. You have to earn everything you get against Saban's teams, particularly against the defense.
Jason from Spartan Country writes: Adam, thinking torward this upcoming season, I am excited about Michigan State's first game against Boise State. Both teams lost veteran quarterbacks in Kirk Cousins, and Kellen Moore. Should we expect this to be a defensive battle. Given that this will be the first starts for both teams' quarterbacks, who do you believe has the edge in this game?
Adam Rittenberg: Jason, it could be a low-scoring affair in East Lansing as Andrew Maxwell and whoever starts for Boise State (Nick Patti? Joe Southwick?) step into the spotlight at quarterback. Michigan State has the edge playing at home, and the Spartans have the type of athletic, aggressive defense that could rattle a quarterback making his first career start on the road. A big key for Michigan State, not just in this game but the whole season, will be establishing a more reliable running attack with Le'Veon Bell. The Spartans are more seasoned along the offensive line, and Bell has played a lot of football. They'll need to lean on the run game a lot more to take pressure off of Maxwell. The other key is handling Boise's speed. This will be a tough test for MSU against a team that has built its rep on winning games like these, but I like the Spartans' chances.
John from Austin, Texas, writes: Adam, just wanted to write and say I like your approach "Yeah, Chris, I got your email. It's our trip and our decisions."You didn't pick the games I would have, but who cares, it was your pick. With election season coming it's refreshing to see people that stick to the point (e.g. it was YOUR choice) and not just pander to everyone.Don't run for office, though. You need to learn to be a lot more slimy
Adam Rittenberg: Good advice, John. Don't think you'll see me on the ticket any time soon. Big Ten blog readers are passionate, and they love telling me where I should go, what I should write, which teams I should pick, etc. And sometimes they're right. But in this case, these are my picks and my road trip. We'll soon open up this topic to the floor and see where you, the Big Ten fan, would want to go this fall if you had unlimited resources. Should be fun.
Mike from Chicago writes: This will sound like an odd question if the answer is no (or perhaps stalkerish if its yes), but were you at Southport Lanes in Chicago last weekend? I saw someone that looked just like you, but couldn't be sure because the mugshot at the bottom of your stories is so tiny. Regardless, I'm a big fan of the Big 10 Blog (go Huskers). Here's hoping you're right about Martinez figuring things out for next season!
Adam Rittenberg: Indeed that was me, Mike. My apologies that you had to see my poor bowling form, but it was a great time at a great place. Very old school. Manual pin setters, no electronic scoreboards, tips stuffed into the bowling ball when you're done playing. Taylor Martinez's progress should be a major story line throughout the season. If he steps up his game, Nebraska very well could take that next step in 2012.
David from Lancaster, Pa., writes: Hey Adam,Love it when you guys go visiting campus and we get more in-depth coverage of each team. I heard you were on a local radio show in Nebraska and said you came away from your Penn State visit thinking Bolden is a slight favorite for the QB job. Care to provide further details on why you feel this way? I think many PSU fans are surprised to hear this.
Adam Rittenberg: David, I only saw one practice, but after reading about and hearing all the Paul Jones hype this spring, I somewhat expected to see Jones separating himself from Rob Bolden and Matthew McGloin. That hasn't happened. Bill O'Brien isn't giving you a line when he says, "Right now, there's no separation." From what I saw, Jones, like the others, still has a way to go in picking up the new offense. Bolden had the best day when I was there, and delivered some terrific passes into tight coverage. But he also had some brain-cramps, like we've seen in games. I get that Penn State fans want to see something different, and Jones fits into that category. He hasn't played in a game and boasts some nice natural skills. And he could emerge as the guy in 2012. But I think folks should pump the brakes a bit on him, and be at least open to the idea that Bolden wins the job. Because it could happen. I'd be somewhat surprised if Bolden isn't in the final two after spring.
Mike from Witchita writes: This blog seems to love pointing out that Nebraska hasn't won a conference title since 1999 but when comparing NU to Big Ten teams, but just something to think about: if you look back at Nebraska and use Big Ten rules to determine conference champions, Nebraska would have raised conference title banners in 2001, 2006 & 2010. Having a single conference champion makes titles scarcer even for powerhouses like the Big Ten's 2nd winningest program. The last decade was obviously Nebraska's worst since the 1950s but just think how many Big Ten programs would kill to have 3 conference championships
Adam Rittenberg: There's no joy in pointing it out, Mike, but when players are openly discussing the national championship, it's important to mention Nebraska would be skipping a step or two. I think Nebraska has a lot of respect within the Big Ten, despite some struggles during the Bill Callahan years. I agree that leagues with championship games are harder to win, and I'm delighted we don't have to deal with co-champions any more. To be fair, though, if we used the old Big Ten rules between 1995-2011, you'd have eight Big Ten squads with two or more "titles": Ohio State, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Northwestern, Michigan State and Penn State.
Sam from Iowa City, Iowa, writes: Thank you for answering my question about KF and your time in IC, Adam. I see your point. But I'm still not convinced KF places a high enough priority on the BIG picture to suit my hopes for Iowa. Sure, KF would like to see the team win it all. But I don't get the sense "lets go to the Rose Bowl!" is a rallying cry in KF's locker room. The "Beat the Rock" mentality is great for individual excellence and when it comes together, Iowa can have magical seasons. But I believe it really limits the program as a whole.
Adam Rittenberg: Ferentz is a realist, which can be tough for fans to hear. Fans are, with few exceptions, always going to think their team has a higher ceiling than it actually does. Ferentz always has been very honest about the limits Iowa has, but I also don't think he tells his players not to dream big. They have to work at it, perhaps more so than teams that recruit better and have nicer facilities and have a more storied tradition, but Iowa has shown in seasons like 2002 and 2009 that it can compete at an elite level. It also doesn't necessarily help a coach to set the bar ridiculously high and then fall short of it. That's how a lot of coaches get fired. And Ferentz has been masterful in securing his position in Iowa City.
AJ from Madison, Wis., writes: Do you see the arrival of Urban Meyer and Bill O'Brien, as well as the recent surge of Michigan State's pass-oriented offense, changing the way the B1G plays defense in the next few years? On the whole, we've always played an extremely run-oriented game, and I gotta believe that the number of running backs, linebackers, and O and D-linemen the conference sends to the draft dwarfs the amount of QB's, wide receivers, and DB's that go. But Meyer's putting in the spread, and we all know what Bill O'Brien did with the Patriots. Throw in a strong passing game from MSU, and I think this will be a very different league in 5-7 years.
Adam Rittenberg: AJ, that's an interesting question. The Big Ten's recent draft output has been extremely defense-heavy. But we could very well see more offensive skill players selected in the coming years. Penn State hasn't had a quarterback drafted since 1997 -- that should change under O'Brien. Michigan State will have a quarterback (Kirk Cousins) drafted fairly high in April, and two Spartans receivers (B.J. Cunningham and Keshawn Martin) also should be selected. I don't think defensive back is as glaring as quarterback or wide receiver, but it will be a position to watch. I'm really interested to see what impact Meyer will have on Ohio State's draft hopefuls. You can also add in Michigan, which will play more of a pro-style offense beginning in 2013.
Back to your original question about the style of defense in the Big Ten. I don't know how dramatically it will change, although the types of players recruited to play defense in the league could change. We won't see as many boxy linebackers, and teams are certainly looking for speed wherever they can find it. Some people say the Big Ten isn't athletic enough along the defensive line, but the league has produced more than its share of pro linemen in recent years.
Charlie from Chicago writes: Hey Adam, I have seen you write several times lately that you believe Nick Saban is the best college coach in the country. I do not disagree with you, but I was wondering if you could elaborate on your reasoning.
Adam Rittenberg: He's very complete and thorough in his approach. Alabama recruits at an extremely high level, as do several other programs in the SEC and in other conferences. But the Tide also develops players extremely well, and that's what resonates with me. There are some great recruiters who are a little short in the talent development. In the Big Ten, there are a lot of great talent developers who fall a little short in the recruiting arena. Saban excels in both. He takes players with obvious talent and has them play the right way, particularly on defense. And his teams are always prepared for big games. You have to earn everything you get against Saban's teams, particularly against the defense.
Jason from Spartan Country writes: Adam, thinking torward this upcoming season, I am excited about Michigan State's first game against Boise State. Both teams lost veteran quarterbacks in Kirk Cousins, and Kellen Moore. Should we expect this to be a defensive battle. Given that this will be the first starts for both teams' quarterbacks, who do you believe has the edge in this game?
Adam Rittenberg: Jason, it could be a low-scoring affair in East Lansing as Andrew Maxwell and whoever starts for Boise State (Nick Patti? Joe Southwick?) step into the spotlight at quarterback. Michigan State has the edge playing at home, and the Spartans have the type of athletic, aggressive defense that could rattle a quarterback making his first career start on the road. A big key for Michigan State, not just in this game but the whole season, will be establishing a more reliable running attack with Le'Veon Bell. The Spartans are more seasoned along the offensive line, and Bell has played a lot of football. They'll need to lean on the run game a lot more to take pressure off of Maxwell. The other key is handling Boise's speed. This will be a tough test for MSU against a team that has built its rep on winning games like these, but I like the Spartans' chances.
John from Austin, Texas, writes: Adam, just wanted to write and say I like your approach "Yeah, Chris, I got your email. It's our trip and our decisions."You didn't pick the games I would have, but who cares, it was your pick. With election season coming it's refreshing to see people that stick to the point (e.g. it was YOUR choice) and not just pander to everyone.Don't run for office, though. You need to learn to be a lot more slimy
Adam Rittenberg: Good advice, John. Don't think you'll see me on the ticket any time soon. Big Ten blog readers are passionate, and they love telling me where I should go, what I should write, which teams I should pick, etc. And sometimes they're right. But in this case, these are my picks and my road trip. We'll soon open up this topic to the floor and see where you, the Big Ten fan, would want to go this fall if you had unlimited resources. Should be fun.
Mike from Chicago writes: This will sound like an odd question if the answer is no (or perhaps stalkerish if its yes), but were you at Southport Lanes in Chicago last weekend? I saw someone that looked just like you, but couldn't be sure because the mugshot at the bottom of your stories is so tiny. Regardless, I'm a big fan of the Big 10 Blog (go Huskers). Here's hoping you're right about Martinez figuring things out for next season!
Adam Rittenberg: Indeed that was me, Mike. My apologies that you had to see my poor bowling form, but it was a great time at a great place. Very old school. Manual pin setters, no electronic scoreboards, tips stuffed into the bowling ball when you're done playing. Taylor Martinez's progress should be a major story line throughout the season. If he steps up his game, Nebraska very well could take that next step in 2012.
Coming at you a day later than normal, but better than never.
Ryan from Grand Rapids, Mich., writes: Hey Adam, How much of a true telling of Michigan's season is the Alabama game going to be? The more that I think about it, the more I begin to sense there are too many unknown factors on both teams for people to make automatic judgments for both Michigan and Alabama teams. That being said, do you feel that a Michigan victory would be a solid sign for another 11 or 12 win season?
Adam Rittenberg: Ryan, I agree that the first game doesn't answer every question about a particular team, and both squads undoubtedly will be improved later in the season. But teams can make national statements in Week 1, like LSU did last season against Oregon in the opener. A Michigan win would be absolutely huge for the program and for the Big Ten, which has struggled to beat the SEC's elite. I haven't hid my feelings about Alabama. In my view, it's the best college program in America and boasts the best college coach in Nick Saban. Any victory against the Tide, no matter what year or how many starters they've lost or where the game is played, resonates in my book. While Alabama certainly won't be Michigan's last major test in 2012, a Wolverines victory would be extremely significant.
Michael from Happy Valley, Pa., writes: hi Adam, you may have already answered this but after your visit to PSU these past two days I have a new and refreshing question about none other than the QB race. What do you think the chances are that Paul Jones, with no game-time experience, is named the starter come september 1st? It sounds like a longshot, but from what I've been hearing around campus and other websites, PJ has been on fire in practice and seems like the real deal when it comes to quarterback. Did he stand out to you at the practice you attended moreso than McGloin (bolden's name shouldn't even be thought of in the QB face ever again or I lose faith in humanity)
Adam Rittenberg: Michael, while Jones remains very much in the mix for the starting job, I think Penn State fans should pump the brakes a bit on all the hype surrounding him. From what I saw this week, he still has some strides to make in a very complex offense, although he clearly has some excellent skills. Granted, I only saw one practice, but he didn't stand out above the others. I realize most PSU fans are sick of Bolden, but it would surprise me if he's not in the final two for the starting job after spring ball. He's a confounding player in many respects, as I saw him make some tremendous, NFL-type throws, but also some head-scratching mistakes. Consistency remains the big key, but I wouldn't write him off despite his struggles in games.
Sam from Iowa City, Iowa, writes: Adam, you quoted KF: "Bottom line is we're 4-4 the last two years in conference play," he said. "If that's the best we can do, then that's fine. But we felt like we've left something out there."If thats the best they can do, thats fine? Two questions for you regarding that. First, is than an opinion that permeates the program (from the AD to the players) as far as you can tell from your time in Iowa City. And second, as a professional sports writer, do you think that is a fair of Iowa as a program, with or without KF?
Adam Rittenberg: Sam, I think Kirk's point is that sometimes, a team maxes out at 4-4. Some teams simply aren't better than 5-7. But Iowa has been better than that, in his mind, the past few seasons and has fallen short. When Ferentz first came to Iowa, the team's maximum output was lower than it has been in recent years. Ferentz has built his program on maximizing talent. In some years, the max is 10 or 11 wins. In other years, it's seven or eight wins. I don't think Iowa will have a team, talent wise, that would call a six-win season satisfactory. I also don't think Ferentz's quote means that the team has an attitude that 4-4 is OK. Players and coaches have bigger goals, like reaching the Rose Bowl and winning a Big Ten title. Ferentz's point is that Iowa must max out its ability, which means better than 4-4 in most years.
Chris from Chicago writes: Every year we hear a lot of complimentary things about teams in spring/summer practice -- improved competition, "swagger," guys playing/looking hungry. And then the season starts, and many times this hunger/improvement/swagger is nowhere to be seen. When Adam/Brian visit a spring/summer practice, what do you look for to see if a team is actually looking better than it did the previous year?
Adam Rittenberg: Chris, good point about the optimistic nature of spring ball. I've yet to visit a spring practice where the team lacks confidence or expects to lose nine or 10 games. But I do look at body language, and when I'm allowed to see practices, I look for players who look different and play different than they did the previous season. At Penn State, for example, I wasn't closely studying players like Silas Redd and Gerald Hodges (both of whom looked great, by the way). I know they can play at an All-Big Ten level. I was looking for the up-and-comers, and also which position groups are showing greater depth. I also look to see how fluid a practice is, whether there are big plays on both sides of the ball and how many breakdowns occur. But you can tell a lot from meeting with players and coaches, listening to how they say things and how confident they sound about their team.
Brian from Indianapolis writes: Call me ignorant, but what does "Silverstone the links" mean? Is it an inside joke, or something?
Adam Rittenberg: Wish it were, Brian. No, it refers to how Alicia Silverstone feeds her son. Click the link at your own risk.
Tom from Lakeland, Fla., writes: Going into 2012 it appears that Danny Hope is the only coach on the hot seat. Any thought that Bobby Petrino could end up at Purdue?
Adam Rittenberg: Wow, that didn't take long, did it? I'll say this: Bobby Petrino will have opportunities in 2013. He's too good of a football coach, and there will be those willing to overlook his lying and transgressions because he can win football games. I don't get the sense Purdue would go that route, and AD Morgan Burke remains supportive of Hope, who he tabbed to succeed Joe Tiller. I also don't know if Purdue could pay Petrino what he'd likely demand.
Jake M. from Chicago writes: Hi Adam. What makes you and Brian so sure that Urban Meyer will succeed with Ohio St.? While he was highly successful at Florida, he also had the opportunity to win with arguably one of the best college players ever (Tebow). It just seems as if OSU has already won a national championship with Meyer before he has even coached a game.
Adam Rittenberg: Jake, there's certainly a group that wonders how Meyer's Florida tenure would have gone had Tebow not been there. And it's fair to wonder whether he's receiving too much praise too early in his Ohio State tenure. My feeling about Ohio State is the program is set up to compete at the highest level and did for most of Jim Tressel's tenure. The damage from the NCAA investigation appears minimal, in part because of what Meyer did on the recruiting trail following his hiring in late December. There's almost a sense that Ohio State is too big to fail. That doesn't mean Meyer and his staff will have it easy this year. They have work to do, particularly with an offense that has underperformed in recent years and needs playmakers to emerge at the wide receiver spot. I like the young defenders returning, and Ohio State should make strides on that side of the ball. It's not as if Ohio State has been far away from winning another national title. Meyer's presence as an elite recruiter, and the more innovative offense he'll bring could be what puts the Buckeyes over the top. But they'll still have to earn it and win what is becoming a deeper Big Ten.
Ryan from Grand Rapids, Mich., writes: Hey Adam, How much of a true telling of Michigan's season is the Alabama game going to be? The more that I think about it, the more I begin to sense there are too many unknown factors on both teams for people to make automatic judgments for both Michigan and Alabama teams. That being said, do you feel that a Michigan victory would be a solid sign for another 11 or 12 win season?
Adam Rittenberg: Ryan, I agree that the first game doesn't answer every question about a particular team, and both squads undoubtedly will be improved later in the season. But teams can make national statements in Week 1, like LSU did last season against Oregon in the opener. A Michigan win would be absolutely huge for the program and for the Big Ten, which has struggled to beat the SEC's elite. I haven't hid my feelings about Alabama. In my view, it's the best college program in America and boasts the best college coach in Nick Saban. Any victory against the Tide, no matter what year or how many starters they've lost or where the game is played, resonates in my book. While Alabama certainly won't be Michigan's last major test in 2012, a Wolverines victory would be extremely significant.
Michael from Happy Valley, Pa., writes: hi Adam, you may have already answered this but after your visit to PSU these past two days I have a new and refreshing question about none other than the QB race. What do you think the chances are that Paul Jones, with no game-time experience, is named the starter come september 1st? It sounds like a longshot, but from what I've been hearing around campus and other websites, PJ has been on fire in practice and seems like the real deal when it comes to quarterback. Did he stand out to you at the practice you attended moreso than McGloin (bolden's name shouldn't even be thought of in the QB face ever again or I lose faith in humanity)
Adam Rittenberg: Michael, while Jones remains very much in the mix for the starting job, I think Penn State fans should pump the brakes a bit on all the hype surrounding him. From what I saw this week, he still has some strides to make in a very complex offense, although he clearly has some excellent skills. Granted, I only saw one practice, but he didn't stand out above the others. I realize most PSU fans are sick of Bolden, but it would surprise me if he's not in the final two for the starting job after spring ball. He's a confounding player in many respects, as I saw him make some tremendous, NFL-type throws, but also some head-scratching mistakes. Consistency remains the big key, but I wouldn't write him off despite his struggles in games.
Sam from Iowa City, Iowa, writes: Adam, you quoted KF: "Bottom line is we're 4-4 the last two years in conference play," he said. "If that's the best we can do, then that's fine. But we felt like we've left something out there."If thats the best they can do, thats fine? Two questions for you regarding that. First, is than an opinion that permeates the program (from the AD to the players) as far as you can tell from your time in Iowa City. And second, as a professional sports writer, do you think that is a fair of Iowa as a program, with or without KF?
Adam Rittenberg: Sam, I think Kirk's point is that sometimes, a team maxes out at 4-4. Some teams simply aren't better than 5-7. But Iowa has been better than that, in his mind, the past few seasons and has fallen short. When Ferentz first came to Iowa, the team's maximum output was lower than it has been in recent years. Ferentz has built his program on maximizing talent. In some years, the max is 10 or 11 wins. In other years, it's seven or eight wins. I don't think Iowa will have a team, talent wise, that would call a six-win season satisfactory. I also don't think Ferentz's quote means that the team has an attitude that 4-4 is OK. Players and coaches have bigger goals, like reaching the Rose Bowl and winning a Big Ten title. Ferentz's point is that Iowa must max out its ability, which means better than 4-4 in most years.
Chris from Chicago writes: Every year we hear a lot of complimentary things about teams in spring/summer practice -- improved competition, "swagger," guys playing/looking hungry. And then the season starts, and many times this hunger/improvement/swagger is nowhere to be seen. When Adam/Brian visit a spring/summer practice, what do you look for to see if a team is actually looking better than it did the previous year?
Adam Rittenberg: Chris, good point about the optimistic nature of spring ball. I've yet to visit a spring practice where the team lacks confidence or expects to lose nine or 10 games. But I do look at body language, and when I'm allowed to see practices, I look for players who look different and play different than they did the previous season. At Penn State, for example, I wasn't closely studying players like Silas Redd and Gerald Hodges (both of whom looked great, by the way). I know they can play at an All-Big Ten level. I was looking for the up-and-comers, and also which position groups are showing greater depth. I also look to see how fluid a practice is, whether there are big plays on both sides of the ball and how many breakdowns occur. But you can tell a lot from meeting with players and coaches, listening to how they say things and how confident they sound about their team.
Brian from Indianapolis writes: Call me ignorant, but what does "Silverstone the links" mean? Is it an inside joke, or something?
Adam Rittenberg: Wish it were, Brian. No, it refers to how Alicia Silverstone feeds her son. Click the link at your own risk.
Tom from Lakeland, Fla., writes: Going into 2012 it appears that Danny Hope is the only coach on the hot seat. Any thought that Bobby Petrino could end up at Purdue?
Adam Rittenberg: Wow, that didn't take long, did it? I'll say this: Bobby Petrino will have opportunities in 2013. He's too good of a football coach, and there will be those willing to overlook his lying and transgressions because he can win football games. I don't get the sense Purdue would go that route, and AD Morgan Burke remains supportive of Hope, who he tabbed to succeed Joe Tiller. I also don't know if Purdue could pay Petrino what he'd likely demand.
Jake M. from Chicago writes: Hi Adam. What makes you and Brian so sure that Urban Meyer will succeed with Ohio St.? While he was highly successful at Florida, he also had the opportunity to win with arguably one of the best college players ever (Tebow). It just seems as if OSU has already won a national championship with Meyer before he has even coached a game.
Adam Rittenberg: Jake, there's certainly a group that wonders how Meyer's Florida tenure would have gone had Tebow not been there. And it's fair to wonder whether he's receiving too much praise too early in his Ohio State tenure. My feeling about Ohio State is the program is set up to compete at the highest level and did for most of Jim Tressel's tenure. The damage from the NCAA investigation appears minimal, in part because of what Meyer did on the recruiting trail following his hiring in late December. There's almost a sense that Ohio State is too big to fail. That doesn't mean Meyer and his staff will have it easy this year. They have work to do, particularly with an offense that has underperformed in recent years and needs playmakers to emerge at the wide receiver spot. I like the young defenders returning, and Ohio State should make strides on that side of the ball. It's not as if Ohio State has been far away from winning another national title. Meyer's presence as an elite recruiter, and the more innovative offense he'll bring could be what puts the Buckeyes over the top. But they'll still have to earn it and win what is becoming a deeper Big Ten.
Video: Penn State QBs in spring practice
April, 10, 2012
Apr 10
8:30
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Bill O'Brien pleased with QBs, line play
April, 9, 2012
Apr 9
3:15
PM ET
By
Adam Rittenberg | ESPN.com
STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- Bill O'Brien isn't handling Penn State's quarterbacks with kid gloves. The three players vying for the starting job aren't spending much time in the shallow end this spring.
"We've thrown everything at them," O'Brien told ESPN. com on Monday.
While there have been expected growing pains, O'Brien saw encouraging signs in Friday's scrimmage.
"It wasn't perfect," he said. "We threw interceptions, we fumbled the ball, we've got a long way to go. But you can just tell certain things were clicking. That was pretty cool to see."
O'Brien is pleased with the performances of Matthew McGloin, Rob Bolden and Paul Jones through the first six spring practices. McGloin and Bolden have shared time as the starter the past two seasons, while Jones is very much in the mix after academic troubles sidelined him in 2010 and 2011.
O'Brien doesn't expect to name a starter before the end of the spring -- he'd like to make a decision 2-3 weeks before the season opener -- but he will reduce the pool from three to two in the next two weeks.
"One guy will have a decent day and the next day, a different guy will have a better day," O'Brien said. "But we give them a lot of reps, so they all have their chances."
Here's what O'Brien had to say about all three candidates:
McGloin: "He's a bright guy who understands our offense right now. He's doing a decent job of operating the huddle and things like this."
Bolden: "He's another bright guy who is doing a good job of understanding the offense. He's a guy that has a great many tools."
Jones: "He's picking it up and shows flashes of being a really good quarterback. When guys ask good questions, which Paul does, Paul asks a lot of good questions, you understand that they are getting it, to a certain degree. They all have good questions."
"It's going to be interesting to see how it all plays out," O'Brien added.
Penn State fans shouldn't expect too many clues in the Blue-White Game -- "I'm certainly not going to show a whole lot in that game," O'Brien said with a smile -- but the situation is gradually taking shape.
While much of the attention is on the quarterbacks, O'Brien is especially excited about the men lining up in front of them. Penn State's offensive line, a group that has underachieved at times since the 2008 season, has stood out early in spring drills.
The Lions return only one starter up front in center Matt Stankiewitch.
"I've been pleasantly surprised with the offensive line," O'Brien said. "They play well together, they play hard, they're smart. It's not easy to play offensive line in this system. There's a lot of communication. I've been pleased with how they've played."
"We've thrown everything at them," O'Brien told ESPN. com on Monday.
While there have been expected growing pains, O'Brien saw encouraging signs in Friday's scrimmage.
"It wasn't perfect," he said. "We threw interceptions, we fumbled the ball, we've got a long way to go. But you can just tell certain things were clicking. That was pretty cool to see."
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Gene J. PuskarPenn State QB Matthew McGloin has earned praise from coach Bill O'Brien during spring workouts.
AP Photo/Gene J. PuskarPenn State QB Matthew McGloin has earned praise from coach Bill O'Brien during spring workouts.O'Brien doesn't expect to name a starter before the end of the spring -- he'd like to make a decision 2-3 weeks before the season opener -- but he will reduce the pool from three to two in the next two weeks.
"One guy will have a decent day and the next day, a different guy will have a better day," O'Brien said. "But we give them a lot of reps, so they all have their chances."
Here's what O'Brien had to say about all three candidates:
McGloin: "He's a bright guy who understands our offense right now. He's doing a decent job of operating the huddle and things like this."
Bolden: "He's another bright guy who is doing a good job of understanding the offense. He's a guy that has a great many tools."
Jones: "He's picking it up and shows flashes of being a really good quarterback. When guys ask good questions, which Paul does, Paul asks a lot of good questions, you understand that they are getting it, to a certain degree. They all have good questions."
"It's going to be interesting to see how it all plays out," O'Brien added.
Penn State fans shouldn't expect too many clues in the Blue-White Game -- "I'm certainly not going to show a whole lot in that game," O'Brien said with a smile -- but the situation is gradually taking shape.
While much of the attention is on the quarterbacks, O'Brien is especially excited about the men lining up in front of them. Penn State's offensive line, a group that has underachieved at times since the 2008 season, has stood out early in spring drills.
The Lions return only one starter up front in center Matt Stankiewitch.
"I've been pleasantly surprised with the offensive line," O'Brien said. "They play well together, they play hard, they're smart. It's not easy to play offensive line in this system. There's a lot of communication. I've been pleased with how they've played."
They're celebrating in the Commonwealth today. We're in spring football mode around here.
Don't forget to send in questions for today's mailblog.
Don't forget to send in questions for today's mailblog.
- It's not a belated April Fool's joke: Nebraska will wear alternate uniforms for a game this season. The Huskers' offense is more confident in Year 2 of Tim Beck's system.
- Ohio State's tight ends are loving life under new coach Urban Meyer. The Buckeyes pick up a recruit who had committed to Toledo.
- An interesting look at how Minnesota monitors athletes and its official on social media.
- Some title talk from Iowa linebacker James Morris after a winter of introspection. Iowa actually broke even for its 2011 Insight Bowl trip, and sold more tickets than it had the previous year.
- Penn State quarterback Paul Jones has overcome academic hurdles to compete for the starting job. A quarterback upgrade isn't the only way the Nittany Lions' offense can improve in 2012.
- Northwestern quarterback Kain Colter is mic'd up for spring practice. The Wildcats have an open competition at the cornerback spots.
- After overcoming personal tragedy, Michigan offensive lineman Elliott Mealer is in the mix for a starting job. Michigan coach Brady Hoke recaps the first half of spring ball.
- Purdue's bowl practices paid dividends for linemen like Kevin Pamphile. A report from the Boilers' latest spring session.
- New Illinois coach Tim Beckman has made a favorable impression on local high school coaches and players.
- Indiana might be adding a Friend in next year's recruiting class. Check out some highlights from the Hoosiers' latest scrimmage.
- Michigan State has a void in the secondary following safety Trenton Robinson's departure. The Spartans' Tyler Hoover isn't worried about being very tall for the defensive tackle spot.
- After quitting the team last fall, Wisconsin's Casey Dehn has fallen back in line.
Final Four weekend. If you see a stumbling Bennett on the streets of Louisville on Saturday night, just get out of his way.
Allan Evridge from Seasons Past writes: Hey Adam, love the blog. I just wanted to stop in to remind the Badger faithful and the crestfallen Nittany Lions fans about ME! Russel Wilson gave Bielema arguably his best season, but I gave him his worst. Perhaps Bielema should reconsider his "One QB Recruit" per year rule because talented transfer quarterbacks don't always work out. I would know.
Adam Rittenberg: Wow, didn't expect to hear from you, Allan. Yes, it's good to remind everyone that quarterback transfers don't always work out. There were other reasons the 2008 season went south in Madison, but the Badgers didn't have great QB play by any means. To expect Danny O'Brien to be another Russell Wilson is unrealistic. But O'Brien gives Wisconsin another option -- an option with a lot of FBS game experience -- at a position filled with question marks right now. He fills a need. As I wrote Wednesday, Wisconsin doesn't need O'Brien to be first-team All-Big Ten to win the Leaders division. But the Badgers can't have the quarterback position be a liability.
Freddy Fact Machine from Denver writes: "AIRBHG" is the invention of www.blackheartgoldpants.com. I suggest giving them credit or else the Angry Adam Rittenberg Hating God (AARHG) will give you tennis elbow.
Adam Rittenberg: That was my mistake, Freddy, as we had to rush to get the reaction post out the door. Black Heart Gold Pants is the mastermind behind AIRBHG and many other brilliant tidbits on all things Hawkeyes. It's definitely a must-read blog.
Joe from Mount Prospect, Ill., writes: Miles Osei is making a case to run the illini offense. If not get on the field and run the offense along with Nate. Sure would be nice to see somebody focus on that. The kid is having a more than solid spring and his offseason was fabulous. Coaches constantly comment about his leadership and what a great football player he is. I pray he is given opportunity to compete and it looks like he is.. What have you heard and seen? Kid is making plays all over the place. He is a combination of both quarterbacks. The kid is a football player and time will only tell if he emerges. He should have been the number two last year but was brushed aside. Kid is a fighter and that is what Illini needs. Winners
Adam Rittenberg: Joe, thanks for the information about Osei. Coach Tim Beckman and co-offensive coordinator/QBs coach Chris Beatty mentioned Osei a bit when we visited Tuesday, but they didn't elaborate like you have here. All three quarterbacks are in the mix right now for the Illini, and it sounds like Nathan is definitely in the lead. But last season showed that Illinois needs more weapons to emerge on offense at every position. It'll be interesting to see what role Osei has in the fall.
Jeremiah from Kearney, Neb., writes: Befor spring practice started i was worried about mostly our linebackers and also a little about our corners but after reading more about how players are coming along and the addition of Mohammed Seisay i feel better about that position what is your take on the linebacker position and how you feel it could play out?
Adam Rittenberg: Jeremiah, I shared those same concerns, and I'm excited to visit Lincoln next week to see how the Huskers defense looks. It does sound like the secondary will be OK as Seisay and others join the mix. Bo Pelini and his staff know how to produce top-level defensive backs, and they've added some talent there. Linebacker is a bit more of a question mark as I don't see another Lavonte David on the roster. It'll take more of a collective effort and several players stepping up at that position.
Evan from Arusha, Tanzania, writes: Hello Adam, I saw the chat transcript and I had some thoughts on the question regarding the QB situation at Purdue. I was reading a report saying that even when Marve was playing he was nowhere near 100% and he would have to take the next few days off from practice due to swelling in his knee. However, now he appears to be at or very near 100%. I think with that being said and if he stays healthy he should be able to progress enough to win the starting nod back. I also think it will be interesting to see whether or not Rob Henry fully recovers, because I think he could be used just like Justin Siller last year. I would really enjoy watching both Henry and Marve play at the same time, which has not happened since the Toledo game two years ago.
Adam Rittenberg: Evan, you could be right about Marve, who has dealt with injuries throughout his entire career at Purdue. Coach Danny Hope has repeatedly said he wants to have at least two quarterbacks ready, and he'll have at least three with legitimate experience entering 2012 in Marve, Henry and Caleb TerBush. Henry certainly can help Purdue at other spots than quarterback, but keep in mind he would have been the starter last season if not for the ACL. He had had a terrific offseason and had the support of his teammates as a co-captain. This is one of the more intriguing QB competitions you'll find because of the injury history. It will be interesting to see how it plays out this fall.
Jon from Colorado writes: So during the chat you said you would give credit to one of the best beat writers in the Big Ten if the O'Brien to Wisconsin report was true, then you wrote two articles and failed to give any credit and only linked to ESPN stories? Kinda dropped the ball there didn't you? Guess the chatter was right and it is only news if ESPN reports it huh? Where's the love for the local media that really breaks the stories?
Adam Rittenberg: Reading really is a skill, John. I suggest you brush up a bit.
Yeah, but we never credit anyone for the work they do. It's not like we have a post every day around lunchtime that includes the best stories from around the league.
Rob from Morristown, N.J., writes: Adam, in your B1G chat today you answered a question that Wisconsin needed O'Brien more than PSU, but PSU fans would disagree. I am a PSU alum and huge fan and I would disagree that "PSU fans would disagree" (as a blanket statement). While having another seasoned QB added to the mix may have helped a puzzled mess that is the PSU QB situation, I do not understand why NO ONE thinks that Matt McGloin can manage the offense, while PSU's running game and defense can win like they did last year. McGloin gets no credit because he is a "former" walk-on. From what we have seen out of Bolden, he just does not cut it in D-I football, but McGloin has shown he is capable. And now that PSU has a REAL QB coach and a head coach that knows how to tutor QBs, (not a QB coach who is the head coaches son and former back-up college QB), I honestly see good things possible from a well coached Matt McGloin, he has the arm, isn't afraid to stay in the pocket, can sense a pass rush and commands the huddle with confidence, and he has two years of quality experience (same as O'Brien).
Adam Rittenberg: Rob, you could be correct about McGloin. We'll just have to see. He certainly has experience and has turned in some impressive performances, particularly in his two starts against Northwestern. I have little doubt Bill O'Brien will upgrade the quarterback position in 2012, no matter who walks out there first -- and I think it'll be McGloin. That said, Danny O'Brien would have been a nice addition, just to give Penn State one more option under center. Bolden has to make significant strides in my view, and Penn State doesn't really know what it has in Paul Jones.
Michael from Los Feliz, Calif., writes: Adam, I'm a big fan of the blog, and a longtime resident of Minneapolis who recently moved to the left coast. I have been writing to you for the last 3 years asking you to check out the Gophers in spring ball. This year I cannot go as I'm no longer in that part of the world. Please watch the Gophers in spring ball. Minnesota has some interesting storylines, practices have been reported to be crisp and intriguing, and the Gophers could easily be the feel good team of the Big Ten this year (led by magnetic senior leader MarQueis Gray at QB).Barney Stinson would jump at the opportunity to rock out in Dinkytown, and so should you.
Adam Rittenberg: Michael, I definitely remember your notes. Unfortunately, I won't be in Minneapolis this spring but hope to make it this fall for a game. Where we go in spring is somewhat out of our hands and depends on a lot of factors. If we had an unlimited budget, we'd be going everywhere. But both Brian and I will keep tabs on Minnesota from afar and will talk to players and coaches throughout the spring. I'm really interested in running back James Gillum, the juco transfer, who has drawn some good marks so far. It'll also be interesting to see who steps up on defense, particularly up front and in the secondary. This could be a big year for Troy Stoudermire at cornerback.
Allan Evridge from Seasons Past writes: Hey Adam, love the blog. I just wanted to stop in to remind the Badger faithful and the crestfallen Nittany Lions fans about ME! Russel Wilson gave Bielema arguably his best season, but I gave him his worst. Perhaps Bielema should reconsider his "One QB Recruit" per year rule because talented transfer quarterbacks don't always work out. I would know.
Adam Rittenberg: Wow, didn't expect to hear from you, Allan. Yes, it's good to remind everyone that quarterback transfers don't always work out. There were other reasons the 2008 season went south in Madison, but the Badgers didn't have great QB play by any means. To expect Danny O'Brien to be another Russell Wilson is unrealistic. But O'Brien gives Wisconsin another option -- an option with a lot of FBS game experience -- at a position filled with question marks right now. He fills a need. As I wrote Wednesday, Wisconsin doesn't need O'Brien to be first-team All-Big Ten to win the Leaders division. But the Badgers can't have the quarterback position be a liability.
Freddy Fact Machine from Denver writes: "AIRBHG" is the invention of www.blackheartgoldpants.com. I suggest giving them credit or else the Angry Adam Rittenberg Hating God (AARHG) will give you tennis elbow.
Adam Rittenberg: That was my mistake, Freddy, as we had to rush to get the reaction post out the door. Black Heart Gold Pants is the mastermind behind AIRBHG and many other brilliant tidbits on all things Hawkeyes. It's definitely a must-read blog.
Joe from Mount Prospect, Ill., writes: Miles Osei is making a case to run the illini offense. If not get on the field and run the offense along with Nate. Sure would be nice to see somebody focus on that. The kid is having a more than solid spring and his offseason was fabulous. Coaches constantly comment about his leadership and what a great football player he is. I pray he is given opportunity to compete and it looks like he is.. What have you heard and seen? Kid is making plays all over the place. He is a combination of both quarterbacks. The kid is a football player and time will only tell if he emerges. He should have been the number two last year but was brushed aside. Kid is a fighter and that is what Illini needs. Winners
Adam Rittenberg: Joe, thanks for the information about Osei. Coach Tim Beckman and co-offensive coordinator/QBs coach Chris Beatty mentioned Osei a bit when we visited Tuesday, but they didn't elaborate like you have here. All three quarterbacks are in the mix right now for the Illini, and it sounds like Nathan is definitely in the lead. But last season showed that Illinois needs more weapons to emerge on offense at every position. It'll be interesting to see what role Osei has in the fall.
Jeremiah from Kearney, Neb., writes: Befor spring practice started i was worried about mostly our linebackers and also a little about our corners but after reading more about how players are coming along and the addition of Mohammed Seisay i feel better about that position what is your take on the linebacker position and how you feel it could play out?
Adam Rittenberg: Jeremiah, I shared those same concerns, and I'm excited to visit Lincoln next week to see how the Huskers defense looks. It does sound like the secondary will be OK as Seisay and others join the mix. Bo Pelini and his staff know how to produce top-level defensive backs, and they've added some talent there. Linebacker is a bit more of a question mark as I don't see another Lavonte David on the roster. It'll take more of a collective effort and several players stepping up at that position.
Evan from Arusha, Tanzania, writes: Hello Adam, I saw the chat transcript and I had some thoughts on the question regarding the QB situation at Purdue. I was reading a report saying that even when Marve was playing he was nowhere near 100% and he would have to take the next few days off from practice due to swelling in his knee. However, now he appears to be at or very near 100%. I think with that being said and if he stays healthy he should be able to progress enough to win the starting nod back. I also think it will be interesting to see whether or not Rob Henry fully recovers, because I think he could be used just like Justin Siller last year. I would really enjoy watching both Henry and Marve play at the same time, which has not happened since the Toledo game two years ago.
Adam Rittenberg: Evan, you could be right about Marve, who has dealt with injuries throughout his entire career at Purdue. Coach Danny Hope has repeatedly said he wants to have at least two quarterbacks ready, and he'll have at least three with legitimate experience entering 2012 in Marve, Henry and Caleb TerBush. Henry certainly can help Purdue at other spots than quarterback, but keep in mind he would have been the starter last season if not for the ACL. He had had a terrific offseason and had the support of his teammates as a co-captain. This is one of the more intriguing QB competitions you'll find because of the injury history. It will be interesting to see how it plays out this fall.
Jon from Colorado writes: So during the chat you said you would give credit to one of the best beat writers in the Big Ten if the O'Brien to Wisconsin report was true, then you wrote two articles and failed to give any credit and only linked to ESPN stories? Kinda dropped the ball there didn't you? Guess the chatter was right and it is only news if ESPN reports it huh? Where's the love for the local media that really breaks the stories?
Adam Rittenberg: Reading really is a skill, John. I suggest you brush up a bit.
- From the "Badgers' recent rise lures Danny O'Brien" post: O'Brien's decision to pick Wisconsin, first reported by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, confirms that the program remains an appealing destination despite the recent transition.
- From the news story on O'Brien's arrival: "The team on Tuesday announced the signing of O'Brien after the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported his arrival.
Yeah, but we never credit anyone for the work they do. It's not like we have a post every day around lunchtime that includes the best stories from around the league.
Rob from Morristown, N.J., writes: Adam, in your B1G chat today you answered a question that Wisconsin needed O'Brien more than PSU, but PSU fans would disagree. I am a PSU alum and huge fan and I would disagree that "PSU fans would disagree" (as a blanket statement). While having another seasoned QB added to the mix may have helped a puzzled mess that is the PSU QB situation, I do not understand why NO ONE thinks that Matt McGloin can manage the offense, while PSU's running game and defense can win like they did last year. McGloin gets no credit because he is a "former" walk-on. From what we have seen out of Bolden, he just does not cut it in D-I football, but McGloin has shown he is capable. And now that PSU has a REAL QB coach and a head coach that knows how to tutor QBs, (not a QB coach who is the head coaches son and former back-up college QB), I honestly see good things possible from a well coached Matt McGloin, he has the arm, isn't afraid to stay in the pocket, can sense a pass rush and commands the huddle with confidence, and he has two years of quality experience (same as O'Brien).
Adam Rittenberg: Rob, you could be correct about McGloin. We'll just have to see. He certainly has experience and has turned in some impressive performances, particularly in his two starts against Northwestern. I have little doubt Bill O'Brien will upgrade the quarterback position in 2012, no matter who walks out there first -- and I think it'll be McGloin. That said, Danny O'Brien would have been a nice addition, just to give Penn State one more option under center. Bolden has to make significant strides in my view, and Penn State doesn't really know what it has in Paul Jones.
Michael from Los Feliz, Calif., writes: Adam, I'm a big fan of the blog, and a longtime resident of Minneapolis who recently moved to the left coast. I have been writing to you for the last 3 years asking you to check out the Gophers in spring ball. This year I cannot go as I'm no longer in that part of the world. Please watch the Gophers in spring ball. Minnesota has some interesting storylines, practices have been reported to be crisp and intriguing, and the Gophers could easily be the feel good team of the Big Ten this year (led by magnetic senior leader MarQueis Gray at QB).Barney Stinson would jump at the opportunity to rock out in Dinkytown, and so should you.
Adam Rittenberg: Michael, I definitely remember your notes. Unfortunately, I won't be in Minneapolis this spring but hope to make it this fall for a game. Where we go in spring is somewhat out of our hands and depends on a lot of factors. If we had an unlimited budget, we'd be going everywhere. But both Brian and I will keep tabs on Minnesota from afar and will talk to players and coaches throughout the spring. I'm really interested in running back James Gillum, the juco transfer, who has drawn some good marks so far. It'll also be interesting to see who steps up on defense, particularly up front and in the secondary. This could be a big year for Troy Stoudermire at cornerback.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Adam Rittenberg
Rittenberg joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four years at the Arlington Heights (Ill.) Daily Herald, where he covered sports at Notre Dame, Northwestern, DePaul and several other colleges. He lives in Chicago.
Brian Bennett
Bennett joined ESPN.com in August 2008 after nine years at The Courier-Journal in Louisville, Ky., where he covered college sports and the University of Louisville beat. He lives in Louisville.
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