The QB debate in Happy Valley is unsettled, but Matt McGloin (#11) played better against Indiana State and deserves to start next week
With the Indiana State Sycamores traveling to Happy Valley, there were questions on the Penn State sidelines concerning who will start under center, QB Matthew McGloin or QB Robert Bolden. In a 41-7 trouncing of the Sycamores neither Penn State QB shattered any passing records, but Penn State appeared to be more productive and efficient on offense with McGloin calling the shots. There was nothing Robert Bolden did on the field to show he earned the starting job.
McGloin ended the day 6/8 for 77 yards while Bolden struggled going 6/12 amassing a paltry 37 yards. There is certainly a lot of pressure on Bolden, and fans what to see him succeed, however, in this early stage of his career, being a back-up isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
Overall, the Nittany Lions’ passing game was subpar and the kicking game can stand some major improvement (K Evan Lewis missed two FGs and one PAT). Where Penn State flexed its muscles was on defense and on the running game. Sophomore RB sensation Silas Redd scored two TDs off of 12 carries scampering for 104 impressive yards. The team combined for 241 total rushing yards.
From Chaz Powell’s 95-yard TD opening kick-off return, Penn State had this game wrapped up in the first 13 seconds. However, the team needs to make some major adjustments as the team faces its first real test next Saturday when SEC powerhouse Alabama comes into town.
Penn State should start McGloin next week, but QB coach Jay Paterno should not hesitate to bench the former walk-on in favor of Bolden if McGloin struggles or makes poor decisions.
