“HD” Clark Best Option

The 2008 Nittany Lion football season is already filled with many questions and much excitement. 

Will this be the last year of Joe Paterno’s coaching career?  What suprises will the new HD offense hold?  Can Derrick Williams play up to his potential in his final season? 

Perhaps the biggest question of all surrounds the man who will be under center.  Will it be Daryll Clark or Pat Devlin?

One thing is for sure:  Many Penn State faithful are just glad a certain other quarterback is not back again. 

Daryll Clark seems to be the best pick for me.  In the college football game, and with the addition of the new “HD Offense,” speed cannot be emphasized enough.  Clark has that speed.  Yes, Devlin supporters say that Pat has speed as well.  When compared to Anthony Morelli, he does.  But so does a snail. 

Take a look back at the 2006 Orange Bowl season led by Michael Robinson.  Questions regarding his passing ability were everywhere.  Even halfway into the season, there were still many who doubted him.  However, one thing was for certain: Michael Robinson could run.

With Clark, this seems to be a carbon copy of the situation in 2006.  Many question his passing ability, but agree that Clark is a threat with his feet.

The ability to run at the quarterback position is such an advantage in college football.  Especially in the Big Ten, where teams are recognized nationally as “slow” compared to the SEC and Big XII, another fleet-footed weapon for linebackers to account for is almost essential.  Option plays, roll-out passing and a wide range of formations will be available for the Lion offense to use.  Even plays that seem like sure disasters from the snap can be made into a positive with a quick QB. 

Another advantage that Clark can provide that Morelli couldn’t is the ability to prolong a play.  Remember the lightening fast, exciting, freshman receivers in 2006?  Butler, Williams, Norwood and King were flying all over the field catching passes in a blur of blue and white.  With Robinson able to sidestep a few defensive linemen, roll around outside the pocket, and create passing lanes, the defensive backfield had a much more difficult time sticking with the receivers.  Sure, it’s not hard to defend a receiver for a five step slant pass or a one yard out pass time after time.  But try hanging with Williams, Butler and Norwood for over five seconds as Clark dodges in the backfield, always a threat to run or pass at any moment. 

The biggest, most exciting plays always come on improvisation when the defense is on their heels. 

Devlin may split time with Clark because of his arm.  This should also be looked at as an advantage.  My opinion, though, is that as the season progresses, one quarterback will emerge because of his excitement and play making abilities. 

Daryll Clark provides the best option for the Nittany Lions in a fast paced, HD Offense.  Look for the passing game to pick up as receivers are able to get open, as well as the running game improve thanks to a different style QB.

That is, IF Jay Paterno allows it.