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

Offensive Line

Starting tackles: Chasz Wright, Ryan Bates
Backups: Will Fries, Alex Gellerstedt

After years of freshmen and converted defensive linemen, Penn State finally has a cohesive looking offensive line with a lot of experience. Ryan Bates is probably the best of the bunch. He has 22 starts through the last couple seasons. His importance showed greatly in the Ohio State game last when he left due to injury and the line did not look the same afterward.

With the other tackle spot, it is still a debate whether Chasz Wright or Will Fries will start. Ultimately Wright gets the green light due to seniority.

Starting center: Michal Menet
Backup: Zach Simpson

Michal Menet is a redshirt sophomore who appeared in 12 games last season. He had a great spring and so far so good in fall camp. The staff feels comfortable enough with him to be the starting center, pushing Connor McGovern back to his natural position at guard. Zach Simpson has a fair amount of experience as a walk on and subbed in for McGovern some last season.

Starting guards: Steven Gonzalez, Connor McGovern
Backups: Mike Miranda, C.J. Thorpe

Steven Gonzalez has almost two full seasons as a starter under his belt. Connor McGovern has been solid at center and guard but looks like he will return to the guard position full-time this fall. Both Mike Miranda and C.J. Thorpe are talented enough to be starters and should see time in the rotation.