Penn State Football: Nittany Lions two-deep depth chart projection

Quarterback

Starting quarterback: Trace McSorley
Backup: Tommy Stevens

There are no questions about who the starting quarterback for the Nittany Lions will be. Trace McSorley is back for his final season in the blue and white.

With Saquon Barkley off to the NFL, this is McSorley’s team. In his two years as the starter, his numbers are eye-popping. He has thrown for 7,369 yards and 59 touchdowns. Last season, he improved his completion percentage by over eight percent compared to the 2016 season. McSorley is also dangerous on the ground with his nearly 900 yards and 18 touchdowns the past two seasons. He will be looking to make his senior year a memorable one.

Tommy Stevens flirted with a transfer this offseason but ultimately chose to return to Penn State. After McSorley leaves, he will be the unquestioned starter but he is more than capable of contributing this season. Stevens can throw, run, and catch. Penn State has not tried his kicking skills, but he would probably be a good kicker too with his athleticism. The coaches have created a separate position for the Stevens called the Lion. This fall, expect him to be a featured part of the offense and not just as a gimmick.