Penn State's new offensive “head coach” has been asking players questions about their plays and responsibilities this spring, claiming it's part of his continuing education as well as theirs. “I came into this job to teach, to coach,” offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki said after a recent practice in State College. “From an education standpoint, we want to stay on the cutting edge of whatever we do.”
Kotelnicki and head coach James Franklin have been teaching the new offense in spring training, but they gave some insight into what they're learning. And here's what we're learning about Penn State's offense ahead of the Blue-White game at Beaver Stadium on April 13th.
Penn State receiver has 'scar on shoulder'
It wasn't surprising to hear Kotelnicki say this about Penn State's receiving corps, the most uneven position group in the 2023 offense. That makes wide receiver the most interesting position to watch in the preseason, even with Drew Allard's development as the starting quarterback and competition at offensive tackle. Kotelnicki wants to give this group of receivers an edge and will help give that edge.
“I think that's a position that surprises some people because no one talks about them. I think they actually carry that chip on their shoulders,” Kotelnicki said. Ta. “…You're like, 'I'll show you.'”
Keandre Lambert-Smith and Harrison Wallace III are returning veterans, with Lambert-Smith coming off a disappointing 53-catch season. While he caught just two passes in the past four games and wasn't a target in the Peach Bowl against Ole Miss, Wallace missed five games with an injury but returned in the bowl game and had four receptions. Ta. Kotelnicki said the entire position has found new purpose.
“They are working on improving every day,” the coordinator said. “That's very clear. We've challenged ourselves physically and mentally more than they have. [been in the past], at least according to their feedback. They are responding very well. We're very hard on them and they dig deep into it. ”
Franklin added: “From what I've seen, the whole group has improved. … I still want to see a group of guys that really separate themselves from the group.” Notice that last part. Encouraging someone to take over as the alpha of the room.
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More praise for Julian Fleming
Fleming, a transfer from Ohio State, earned the respect of his teammates and strength coach Chuck Losey for his dedication and attention to detail during winter workouts. Fleming continues to practice the work ethic his coach values, and that extends to spring training. Even if Fleming doesn't assume the No. 1 receiver role, he has a strong case to take on a major role in the offense.
In describing Fleming's assimilation into the program. Franklin also opened up about the hiring process five years ago.
“He was great, and the way it ended initially, you didn't necessarily know how everything was going to play out,” Franklin said. “Even in the midst of this, [portal] When we first had conversations about the hiring process, we weren't sure how it would play out. The players love him, he's a great teammate and he's really easy to coach. I think he was able to move on. There is no mention of the past.
“…on both sides, and I don't want to say that for Julien, but it looks very good in terms of energy, morale and expectations. He's been a really great addition and quickly gained the confidence of the coaches and players. I know I did.”
More work for the freshman quarterback
Franklin recently noted that freshman quarterback Ethan Grankmeier, who enrolled in January, has “really shined” in practice. Franklin did not mention redshirt freshman Jackson Smolik, but a recent report by Blue-White Illustrated's Ryan Snyder may explain why.According to Snyder, Smolik will be out. “At least for the rest of spring ball.” He suffered undisclosed injuries. This gave Grünkemeyer more opportunities to play in the spring.
“Grankmeyer is really shining right now and doing great things as a true freshman quarterback,” Franklin said. “What I'm most excited about is that he's showing flashes now, but he's spent all spring and early summer working on playbooks, working on installations, and watching tons of videos. What's going to happen in the summer?'' Watching a lot of Kansas tape, a lot of Penn State tape? But it was good. ”
AllPennState is your destination for Penn State news, opinions and perspectives on the SI.com network. Publisher Mark Wogenrich has covered Penn State for more than 20 years, tracking three coaching staffs, three Big Ten titles, and an impressive catalog of articles. Follow him on Twitter @MarkWogenrich.
