2009 NFP scouting series: Penn State

(Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)

This summer, the National Football Post is breaking down every team in the Football Bowl Subdivision (formerly known as Division I-A) to identify players who might warrant interest from NFL teams in the 2010 draft.

The Penn State Nittany Lions return a talented group of prospects from their 2009 Rose Bowl team and look like the favorites to win Big Ten in 2009.

Offense

Darryl Clark: No. 17, QB, 6-1, 233

Possesses a strong arm and can make throws outside the numbers with good zip, but his deep ball tends to hang. Does a nice job anticipating routes down the field and has the ability to throw receivers open once he’s set in the pocket. Has the build of a Greek god and exhibits the strength to break tackles and keep plays alive with his feet. Is very comfortable on the move and is a dual run/pass threat once he breaks containment. However, he needs to do a better job gathering himself before the pass. Has a tendency to get sloppy with his footwork and doesn’t always align his feet and body with the throw, which causes him to lose sight of the strike zone.

Isn’t real natural with his timing in the short/intermediate pass game and has a tendency to miss high on his throws. Doesn’t look comfortable from under center and struggles with his balance and footwork in his drop. Possesses a high delivery point and the athleticism to move around in the pocket and find throwing lanes, which help make up for his lack of height.

Impression: An intriguing athlete who will likely be asked to take the same route as former Penn State quarterback Michael Robinson at the next level.

Evan Royster: No. 22, RB, 6-1, 212

A tough, inside runner who showcases the vision and patience to pick his way through the line of scrimmage. Is a balanced back who consistently drops his pad level on contact and is very powerful in the lower half. Does a nice job working his way through creases at the line and keeps his legs pumping through the hole. Is very difficult to knock off balance and possess the footwork and strength to absorb a hit and keep driving forward. Displays a sudden jump-cut and exhibits the footwork to quickly changes directions, square his shoulders and attack up field.

Has a good first step and showcases a burst out of his breaks, but lacks the second gear to run away from defenders in the open field. Isn’t overly elusive and isn’t going to consistently make defenders miss. However, he breaks a lot of tackles and is able to generate long runs because of it.

Impression: Isn’t going to “wow” you with his quickness or speed, but he’s an instinctive runner with great balance and looks like a starting-caliber back at the next level.

Andrew Quarless: No. 10, TE, 6-5, 253

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