Christian Hackenberg is one of the brightest prospects in college football with the weight of a program on his shoulders. As his sophomore season quickly approaches, we ask the question: how good can he be in 2014?
As a freshman in a disgraced program, the Pennsylvania native led the Nittany Lions to a 7-5 record with just under 3,000 passing yards, 20 touchdowns and ten interceptions. Impressive victories over no. 18 Michigan and no.15 Wisconsin – during which Hackenberg tallied over 600 passing yards and seven touchdowns - were two iconic moments which drew the line between new and old Penn State football.
With a full season as starter already under his belt at 19 years old, a lot will be expected during his sophomore season but fans and analysts would be wise to keep their expectations in check.
James Franklin was appointed as head coach in January after Bill O’Brien was snapped up by the Houston Texans - that means a new playbook to master and his second in two college seasons. Last year Hackenberg struggled early with decision making and accuracy while learning the playbook and we may see similar problems this year. Let’s remember this is a true sophomore going through difficult changes not a fourth-year junior or fifth-year senior with college football familiarity.
Nevertheless, the 6’4” signal caller will embody the role and step up as a leader this time around with his feet now firmly in the door. Furthermore, the experience he gained first time around will go a long way to cleaner preparation as he benefits fully from spring practise.
If Hackenberg is to be the next Tom Brady or Peyton Manning then we will see improvements over the forthcoming season, but do not expect any miracles. His real test will come as a junior when the eyes of the football world are on him leading up to the draft.
As a small prediction I think the Nittany Lions win eight games including an upset victory over either Michigan, Michigan State or Ohio State, while Hackenberg tosses at least 25 touchdowns and improves his turnover rate.
Follow Richard on Twitter @Richard_Gatenby