Penn State football Q&A
Here are the highlights from the online chat that Penn State reporter Frank Bodani held with readers Monday on the Nittany Nation blog. The chat is every Monday at 8 p.m. at ydr.com/blog/psu, where you can see the full transcript.
Q: The Lions have put together a pretty strong 2018 class. How important are wins next year to keep this class together?
A: I definitely think it helps. But as long as Penn State holds its own I'm not sure the total is that crucial. Really believe these kids finally commit based on the school and the relationship with the coaches.
Penn State's success, and how it's driven, is more important in getting kids interested than in final commitments.
Q: Who are the upcoming names to watch on the radar?
A: Next recruit to watch is four-star Maryland receiver Daniel George, who just visited this past weekend. He's about 6-1 and 200 pounds. Penn State could call it a year on wideouts if they land George and Harrisburg's Shaquon Anderson-Butts, another 4-star.
Q: Before Brendan Mahon and Andrew Nelson were hurt they both were the best members of the OL. Will they get passed by the very talented group that has sat on the bench behind them?
A: We probably won't know that until deep into the summer. How well does rehab go for Mahon and Nelson? Nelson is already on his second major injury return, which may be tough. And we know so little of Mahon's situation.
Put it this way, they will be nice backup plans and support, if nothing else. And that's a huge statement. Penn State finally will have the depth and even experience to move forward without both, if need be. Especially with these five: Ryan Bates, Connor McGovern, Steven Gonzalez, Michal Menet and Chasz Wright.
Q: Who do you think will be better next fall, the OL or the DL?
A: Interesting point ... The defensive line will own more depth, especially if Parker Cothren and Curtis Cothran contribute big minutes early and stay healthy. But the offensive line may have more talent and upside. Is there a young offensive lineman in the nation better than Ryan Bates?
Q: How much improvement should we expect to see from Miles Sanders next year? He was a little shaky at time as a freshman.
A: Miles certainly has the talent, no question, and that buys him time. Which is only fair. Can't truly expect him or anyone to progress at the same rate as Saquon Barkley. His next steps are building his body and alleviating the fumbling issues. To his credit, Miles never backed down this past fall.