Opinion: His Penn State teammates have noticed a change in quarterback Drew Allar

Three days before his junior season begins, Drew Allar seemed looser and freer than he did at any point last season.

His Penn State teammates have noticed the change in him and the way he carries himself.

“He’s more comfortable, confident, mature and vocal,” center Nick Dawkins said. “I love to see it. His confidence and maturity are the easiest things to point out.”

Allar is the highest-rated quarterback that James Franklin has recruited. He played behind Sean Clifford as a freshman before becoming the starter last year.

He didn’t connect on many deep passes because he didn’t attempt many. He didn’t play particularly well on the road. He didn’t play well in losses to Ohio State, Michigan and Mississippi

Yet he threw 25 touchdown passes – the third-most in school history – and a mere two interceptions for the 10-3 Nittany Lions. He received more criticism than any quarterback who has posted such numbers because, in fact, only one other one has done that in Football Bowl Subdivision history.

“I don’t think you really know what it’s like until you go through it,” Allar said Wednesday. “I was talking to Coach Franklin the other day about it. I logged off Twitter (X). I deal with it that way now.”

He’s 20 years old now. He’s stronger, tougher and lighter (by about 10 pounds) than he was a year ago. He has thicker skin.

He made a concerted effort in the summer to assert himself as a team leader. He organized workouts and passing drills. He gained more faith and trust from his teammates.

“He’s definitely grown a lot in leadership, for sure,” sixth-year defensive tackle Dvon J-Thomas said. “Taking command of the room and taking command of the offense has been a huge, huge plus for him, especially in this camp.

“I’ve seen the progression, for sure. You guys will see it soon. From…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/opinion-penn-state-teammates-noticed-034700297.html

Author : Reading Eagle, Pa.

Publish date : 2024-08-29 03:47:00

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