For Penn State's Micah Parsons, more playing time is about 'all the details'

Micah Parsons, still just a true freshman, is one of Penn State's most steady producers on defense.

He's just not quite ready to own his outside linebacker spot quite yet.

Despite limited snaps, he is second on the team in tackles with 36 through seven games. He shares the position with senior starter Koa Farmer.

Head coach James Franklin said he discusses Parsons' increased role each week with his staff.

"Micah's a really interesting guy. He's very thoughtful. He sends messages to me all the time," Franklin said. "It's very important to him, and he cares a lot, but he's still growing up and maturing. 

"A lot of stuff for him, it's not necessarily the physical aspect; it's all the details. Like how to meet, how to practice, even at the hotel" the day before games. "It's just all of those details. ... His role is growing as he shows signs he's dotting all the i's and the t's consistently.

"He's shown some flashes and has had production, but there are also times when things need to be cleaned up."

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As he learns how to play linebacker, Parsons' hopes to increase his impressive pass-rushing ability. So far, he's registered only three quarterback hurries and has shared one sack.

His older teammates, like senior cornerback Amani Oruwariye, said it will just take a bit more time.

"He's listening. He's being coachable. He got guys around him who have played a lot of football. They're grooming him," Oruwariye said. "He's just listening to all the little tips they’re teaching him. He's not going to be perfect every play, but he has the talent.

"He's a freak talent. The sky's the limit for him. As long as he keeps working hard and keeps head down, he’s going to be special."