Some really interesting reporting from Bob Flounders of The Patriot-News about how Penn State practices are going.
Reporters are not allowed to watch scrimmages or practices, but Bob’s sources have provided a good look inside the Penn State training camp and this is what they are reporting on the quarterback situation:
Michigan’s Robert Bolden, has been the talk of preseason camp, according to our guy. An impressive specimen at 6-4, 208 pounds, Bolden did not enroll early — like fellow true freshman Paul Jones — so he could participate in spring drills. No matter.
Bolden has a big-time arm and the feet to avoid trouble. This is a huge deal, given the Lions’ road dates with Alabama, Iowa and Ohio State. Most important, Bolden has shown big-time poise for a young player. And he will use his feet to extend a passing play, then make the throw.
Newsome, another dual threat, is more likely to take off and try to run, rather than throw the ball.
“And Bolden can throw the ball 40 yards and hit a guy in stride,” says our guy. “He reminds some players of Terrelle Pryor.”
Bolden, clearly, has seized the moment in practices. The same cannot be said for Newsome, our insider said. He has not been consistent.
Do not be surprised, our man said, if sophomore Matt McGloin, the former walk-on, opens the season as the starter. And Penn State could use a two-QB system with Bolden coming in as a reliever, much the same way Ohio State used quarterbacks Todd Boeckman and Pryor in 2008.
As for Jones, if Bolden gets the call in terms of playing time, he might be headed for a redshirt season.