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Former Wisconsin offensive tackle Nolan Rucci was ProFootballFocus’ highest-graded offensive lineman (76.6) from the first round of the 2024 College Football Playoff last weekend.
Rucci started at right tackle for Penn State as it defeated SMU 38-10. He aided a Nittany Lion offense that totaled 325 total yards, 189 rushing yards and 4.7 yards per carry. Those totals would have likely been much higher had the Penn State defense not scored two pick-sixes to open the contest.
The former Badger recently took over Penn State’s full-time starting right tackle job after a season-ending injury to starter Anthony Donkoh. Rucci previously played a depth role along the offensive line, mostly seeing snaps in jumbo formations.
Saturday’s contest was a breakthrough game for a Penn State program badly in need of a signature win. It also was one for Rucci, who appears to be cementing himself as the program’s future starter at the position.
Highest Graded OL from CFP First Round:
🐾 Nolan Rucci, Penn State: 76.6@PennStateFballpic.twitter.com/zQP0TYrqeG
— PFF College (@PFF_College) December 23, 2024
Rucci transferred to Penn State last offseason after three seasons with the Badgers. He originally joined Wisconsin as a five-star recruit, the No. 1 player from Pennsylvania and the No. 17 overall player in the class of 2021. He failed to win a starting position during his time with the program. Multi-year starters Jack Nelson (left tackle) and Riley Mahlman (right tackle) blocked that path.
The former Badger has since found strong footing with the Nittany Lions. He and the team are now preparing for a College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup against Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl.
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Story originally appeared on Badgers Wire
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/former-wisconsin-badger-transfer-standout-132651975.html
Author : Badgers Wire
Publish date : 2024-12-25 13:26:00
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