Penn State Football Recruiting: Christian Hackenberg Commits to Nittany Lions

Christian Hackenberg committed to Penn State on Wednesday afternoon, according to ESPN.com. Hackenberg is widely considered one of the top quarterbacks in the 2013 class.

The Nittany Lions beat out Alabama, Florida and South Carolina among others for Hackenberg's services.

Penn State has not had an elite arm behind center for a very long time. Grabbing Hackenberg early on will endear new head coach Bill O'Brien to Nittany Lion nation before he has coached his first career game in Happy Valley.

Hackenberg is a prototypical pocket passer. He has a sold 6'4'' frame, and can make any throw needed. He is considered a solid athlete with adequate mobility. He is also referred to by his high school coach as a winner with a tough attitude when the game is on the line.

He was a 2013 Under Armour All-American, and is currently on ESPN's Watch List for 2013 recruits.

The Nittany Lions needed a jolt on the recruiting trail after a subpar recruiting haul in 2012. Hackenberg's commitment is not set in stone, and Penn State still has work to do, but this is certainly a major step in the right direction.

Hackenberg's decision does not come completely out of the blue. He grew up in Northeastern Pennsylvania, and grew up watching Penn State football.

O'Brien will need a capable arm to run his offense in Happy Valley. Hackenberg could be the answer.