Penn State University
By Kevin Gorman

After its fourth losing season in five years, Penn State concentrated on upgrading its athleticism with a recruiting class loaded with speedy multiple-purpose players.

The Nittany Lions gained a measure of respect with a couple of huge commitments. First, Gateway’s Justin King, the nation’s top cornerback prospect, picked Penn State in mid-November.

King choosing the Lions over finalists Florida, Michigan and Southern Cal from 55 scholarship offers, however, was hardly their crowning moment.

Penn State added its second top-10 prospect when receiver Derrick Williams, regarded by many as the nation’s No. 1 recruit, made a commitment to the Lions in late December.

PSU also added dynamic California all-purpose back Lydell Sargeant; Connecticut athlete Willie Harriott; Upper St. Clair linebacker Sean Lee; and York’s Knowledge Timmons, the PIAA 100- and 200-meter champion.

By adding so much speed and athleticism, their receiving corps and secondary should make immediate improvements and have greater depth. They have added a pair of rugged linebackers in Lee and Steve Quinn of St. Joseph’s Prep in Philadelphia. There are multiple special teams prospects, especially kick returners in King, Sargeant and Williams, and a quality kicker in Neshaminy’s Kevin Kelly.

The group may lack balance. Nine of the 16 recruits play either receiver or defensive back. Matt Lowry, lured away from a verbal to Virginia, and Dennis Landolt were the only lineman committed as of press time. The Lions weren’t very involved with a pair of in-state national defensive tackle prospects, Marques Slocum of Philadelphia and Callahan Bright of Bryn Mawr.

Great things, however, are expected of King and Williams, and both will compete for starting roles. Look for Lee - one of the top three players in the WPIAL - to crack the lineup.