Penn State Nittany Lions 2015 Spring Game Preview: Five things to watch for

Nov 15, 2014; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions tackle Donovan Smith (76) during the second quarter against the Temple Owls at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Temple 30-13. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O

5. Who Will Replace Donovan Smith?

Two days ago, former Penn State left tackle Donovan Smith was invited to the NFL Draft, signifying that he will most likely be picked within the first two rounds of the draft in the upcoming weeks. Smith has been Hackenberg’s blind side protector the last two seasons, and a really good one if the NFL values him that much.

The battle to be his successor looks like a matchup between JUCO transfer Paris Palmer and Redshirt Freshman Chance Sorrell. Neither of these players has seen a snap at Beaver Stadium, so the Blue-White game should be very telling of who will be protecting Hackenberg this season.

Palmer was the 12th ranked JUCO player in the country last year and Sorrell is a three star recruit from Ohio. Keep an eye on this matchup as the winner will be taking over at the second most important position in football.

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