In the Nittany Lions' first training camp under new head coach Matt Campbell, the squad has learned a lot about themselves and each other in a short amount of time. Ahead of a highly pivotal season where there will be mixed expectations, the Nittany Lions are quickly identifying the key different makers that could make this season a special one in Happy Valley. Over the past few weeks, Matt Campbell has identified the key standouts during training camp. Here are a few that you may want to know before the season's start.
Rocco Becht, Quarterback
Of course, every Penn State fan knows the name of the QB primed to get them back into the national spotlight. However, they may not know about his rise to this spot after one of the most successful careers in Iowa State history.
What he did for that program could be a positive sign of things to come in Happy Valley, as he has looked sharp, having added muscle and trained with Brock Purdy in the offseason to improve. Said Campbell of Becht's performance in camp, "I hate to use the word flawless, but he's played at an elite clip every day [in camp]". Penn State fans can only hope to see that on the field starting next week.
Audavion Collins, Cornerback
Collins brings back some of the most experience of any returning player in Penn State's squad, which makes him wholly unique in terms of Penn State's roster makeup. The fifth year senior cornerback will be tasked with being a vocal leader in the back end of the defense. Penn State's CB room is very deep, but also very young, so Collins' reliability in camp, especially in 11-on-11 drills, will hopefully allow the Nittany Lions to be more creative in their defensive game planning. "I think AC has been lights out," Campbell said. "Man, what he practices like, what he plays like, the consistency that he has given us, just in general as a football team, has been remarkable."
Chase Sowell, Wide Receiver
If there is anyone in the Penn State offense with a chance to prove themselves at an even higher level, it is transfer receiver Chase Sowell. Sowell has had quite the college football journey, having played for four different schools throughout his five-year career. Now with the Nittany Lions, a lot of weight will be placed on his shoulders to deliver for this team after a breakout season with the Cyclones last year. In camp, he has been doing everything he can to lead by example, making the big plays that will give Penn State fans confidence the recent struggles at the position will finally come to an end.
Kooper Ebel, Linebacker
Ebel was not necessarily the most high profile of Penn State's defensive transfer portal additions, but he certainly will look to be one of the most impactful. Holding down the middle linebacker position, especially on a new team, can be difficult, but Ebel has made the transition look effortless. Last season, he was the leading tackler for the Cyclones with 77. Still, with tons of responsibility placed on his shoulders, there is great confidence within the building that he can be the conductor of this defense.
James Peoples, Running Back
It's very rare that an Ohio State Buckeye transfers to Penn State, but when he does, it's notable. For James Peoples, he may not even be the starter, but the big play threat he can offer can be tantalizing. He was pursued by the Nittany Lions for that X factor, and he has shown that in everything he does, not just making big plays in the run game, but catching touchdown passes and adding a much-needed boost in the pass blocking game. Peoples may not get all of the headlines in the backfield, but as someone who is willing to do the dirty work, he could be one of the unsung heroes of Penn State's season.
This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: Five Penn State fall camp standouts to keep your eye on
