With news that blossoming star wide receiver Koby Howard got hurt against Buffalo, alongside tight end Andrew Rappleyea and center Brock Riker, it’s time for this Penn State team to face adversity for the first time.
Sure, there was some friction playing Temple, but that was mostly self-inflicted, and the team was able to sort itself out.
This, however, has potential to impact three offensive starters in their Big Ten opener against Wisconsin.
Riker is currently listed as probable, but both Howard and
Rappleyea are questionable. While neither appeared to suffer catastrophic injuries against the Bulls, it appears that both injuries are severe enough to at least give the coaching and medical staff pause before clearing them to play.
Assuming Rappleyea can’t play, his duties will likely fall to some combination of Finn Furmanek and Gabe Burkle. Both capable tight ends, though perhaps not quite as well-rounded as Andrew.
Losing Howard hurts more due to his sudden appearance on the scene, and the fact that he and quarterback Rocco Becht appear to have an immediate rapport with each other. I’d expect Zay Robinson to step in if Koby is unable to go, he of the oh-so-close punt returns. But can he provide the sudden explosiveness of Howard? Will Becht trust him as much?
In any case, if any of the starters can’t go, it will be time for the next man to step up. Good teams find a way to win, regardless of who is playing.
It’s time to find out if Penn State is a good team.
