There Will Be Fallout And Accusation
by Run Up The Score on Dec 11, 2008 10:02 AM EST
160 comments
Perhaps the weirdest part of a high-profile quarterback transfer is the collective need to assess blame. You know, like, "THIS IS JAY PATERNO'S FAULT." Or, "DEVLIN LEFT THE TEAM HANGING FOR THE ROSE BOWL." Okay, fine. The outrage is useful for a few moments.
(photo credit: Princeton University)
So yes, the story is confirmed, Pat Devlin is gone. Jeff McLane reached Devlin's high school coach, Mike Matta (who, earlier this year, said Devlin was "not a transfer guy"):
The Lions were trailing, 6-3, but Devlin guided the offense to a go-ahead touchdown and later an additional three points as Penn State won, 13-6, to improve to 9-0. He scored the winning touchdown on a 1-yard run.
"He was riding high," a source close to Devlin said.
But Devlin continued to experience rough patches and doubts over his future, because Clark, a junior, is slated to return next year. The source said Devlin was never comfortable with quarterbacks coach Jay Paterno and relied more on the advice of wide receivers coach and former Penn State quarterback Mike McQueary and offensive coordinator Galen Hall.
"The relationship was never forged with him and his quarterbacks coach," said Mike Matta, Devlin's coach at Downingtown East.
A message left with Jay Paterno was not returned last night.
The same quarterbacks coach, of course, who helped welcome Devlin to Penn State even after the highly-prized recruit had chosen exotic Miami as a college destination, before a coaching shakeup there steered Devlin to his parents' alma mater in State College.
Does any second-team quarterback think he has a great relationship with the quarterbacks coach?
Anyway, the details are juicy:
According to a source close to Paterno, Devlin, along with his parents, Mark and Connie, visited with the 81-year-old coach on Monday to express their displeasure over their son's situation. The Devlins brought with them a list of issues they had about Penn State's handling of their son.
By the end of the meeting, Pat Devlin had informed Paterno that he was leaving, the source said. With one game to play, however, Devlin's decision over whether he would play in the Jan. 1 Rose Bowl against Southern Cal was left dangling.
Yesterday, according to another source close to the team, Paterno asked Devlin if he had reached a verdict. The sophomore said he had not. Paterno made the decision for him, and by the end of the day, Devlin's locker was cleaned out.
Totally fine with the parents getting involved, by the way. We're talking about Super Coaching Icon Joe Paterno here, a guy with a long history of outsmarting, intimidating, and outlasting his adversaries. That guy vs. a 20 year old kid, facing the most important decision of his young life. Devlin's parents were heavily involved in his decision to choose PSU at the last minute, they may as well be involved in this part of the proceedings as well.
Still, I would love to know what was on that "list of issues". I bet JoePa just loved that.
Paterno did the right thing, by the way. You can't have a guy on the team who quite obviously has one foot out the door. Besides, Joe Paterno isn't the kind of guy who takes kindly to being left hanging. Paul Cianciolo is your backup for the Rose Bowl, and he should be.
This is a situation where everyone did what was best for themselves. The coaches chose Clark as the starter in August. Many of us disagreed with the selection, including myself, but Clark proved to be the correct choice for this particular style of offense. Did Jay Paterno choose Clark because Jay has a bad track record with pro-style quarterbacks? I mean, maybe. But his job is to place the proper personnel in position to win college football games, not create a feeder system fo the NFL's needs. This isn't a football camp.
Devlin did what was best for himself, as well. Frankly, I'm still surprised that he stuck around after Clark was named the starter in August. Despite losing the quarterback competition, Devlin was assured a slice of playing time. Initially, he received it. He threw 35 passes in the first four games of the season, but never found the field against Illinois or Purdue. That would be a theme throughout the Big Ten schedule, and he'd never throw more than five passes in a game at Penn State again.
There were happier days. (photo credit: lehighvalleylive.com)
As for initial player reaction, the York Daily Record caught up with hometown guy, Knowledge Timmons:
The news apparently filtered through a team workout on Wednesday, catching at least some by surprise.
"We all came to work out today, and somebody said that Pat might be leaving," said Knowledge Timmons, the William Penn High grad who is a Nittany Lion defensive back. "And I was like, 'What is he leaving for?'
"It's still fresh to everybody. ... I guess (he figured) he's not going to be the starter (next season) so he wants some playing time."
When asked about the timing of the possible transfer, Timmons said, "We're doing good, so it is kind of distracting now. I'm kind of surprised about hearing about it."
Of course, this is just the first or second layer of the onion. There will be more details in the upcoming days and weeks -- jockeying in the press, stories of how the villainous Paternos conspired to screw Pat Devlin, and all sorts of other fun. For now, on the field, the important part is keeping Daryll Clark upright for sixty minutes against USC. Off the field, the coaching staff better be putting every second of their collective spare time into landing an highly-rated quarterback for this current recruiting class. Cianciolo turns in his equipment after the Rose Bowl. Clark has one year of eligibility remaining. After that, there's walk-on Matt McGloin and the intriguing Brett Brackett, who will almost certainly have to shift back to his high school position of quarterback if the coaches strike out on the quarterback recruiting front. Again.
[Late Update: Funny to watch this particular video now.]
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"Does any second-team quarterback think he has a great relationship with the quarterbacks coach?"
Yes.
Daryll Clark in 2006 and 2007.
"We are Penn State. We are not normal. We are Legends." - Deon Butler
by Stately NOVA Lion on Dec 11, 2008 10:13 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
And he still couldn't get on the field!
by Run Up The Score on Dec 11, 2008 10:14 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
True....
but he patiently and enthusiastically waited his turn.
Right now….I’m more worried about the distraction this may cause before the bowl game. I’m sure I’ll get responses saying, “no…this team has too many leaders”, etc. Bottom line is we have lost our focus before and that was without a distraction (eh-hem…Iowa).
Best of luck to Devlin and I hope Clark and Co. can keep this team together to take on U$C.
"We are Penn State. We are not normal. We are Legends." - Deon Butler
by Stately NOVA Lion on Dec 11, 2008 10:19 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
"Those who stay..."
I don’t think that a hardly-used 2nd string QB transfer will have any sort of lasting effect on the team’s preparations. None of us are going to point to this if PSU loses by 20 in the Rose Bowl.
Players transfer all the time. Sometimes, they happen to be quarterbacks.
by Run Up The Score on Dec 11, 2008 11:29 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
When asked about the timing of the possible transfer, Timmons said, “We’re doing good, so it is kind of distracting now. I’m kind of surprised about hearing about it.”
"We are Penn State. We are not normal. We are Legends." - Deon Butler
by Stately NOVA Lion on Dec 11, 2008 12:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Distracting *now*.
Sure, it’s distracting right now. Of course it is. But it’s also three weeks before a game that Devlin wasn’t even going to play in.
by Run Up The Score on Dec 11, 2008 12:34 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Devlin will be missed!
He has the potential to play regularly. He was able to manage the reigns in a tough game. He will be successful somewhere. I am saddened with him leaving. I am truly concerned how this may affect future recruiting @ the QB and Wr positions.
Settle it on the field!
by PSUncle1981 on Dec 11, 2008 10:17 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Devlin
I think he’s making the wrong decision. He could practice everyday against a great defense. He could start at a great School his senior year. is he going to enjoy returning in future years to his new school ( Delaware ? ) instead of Happy Valley ??
I see this as being one of two choices….Matt Cassell or Joe Flacco.
Cassell stayed in a great program, never started and still made the pros.
Flacco transferred from a D1 to a D2, started and still made the pros.
I guess Devlin likes the method of Flacco.
by doyle37 on Dec 11, 2008 10:25 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
And PSU. . .
Isn’t exactly USC in pumping out QBs ala Matt Cassell’s situation
by The IC Lion on Dec 11, 2008 10:49 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with IC Lion
You can not compare PSU to U$C in terms of preparing QB’s for the NFL. As much as we want to think it’s not all about winning national titles, making the NFL plays a role in the decissions of alot of these players.
Personally i was really hoping that DC would realize that his best shot at the pros would be to go the Heinz Ward route and help fill our void at WR next year and we could get Devlin on the field next year as a starter!!! I’m not knocking what DC did for this team as a QB, just looking at it like Tim Shaw and Sean Lee. Shaw was a great LB for us but had to sacrifice to get all our best athletes on the field, and his attitude and versitility got him a look from the Pros.
by platnumkid on Dec 11, 2008 11:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Preparing for the NFL
I hope Penn State NEVER becomes a school where HS players go to prepare for the NFL.
Penn State is about team, and doing what is asked to help the team win.
If Devlin came to PSU hoping it would help him get to the NFL, that was a bad reason. He should have stayed with Miami.
Anyways, best of luck Pat.
by NJ lion on Dec 11, 2008 2:43 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Can you reword that first line?
It makes it seem that you’re okay with kids coming in from high school to throw the football around and not grow as athletes. That’s like saying you hope Penn State never becomes a university where high school students go to prepare for the working world…
If using PSU as a gateway to the NFL is his only reason, then yes – I would agree that it was a poor decision. But if it was just one reason – because he saw Penn State as a place that would help teach him the tools necessary to take him to the next level – then I find no fault with that. It’s why I chose Penn State for my education – a great school, with a great atmosphere, and a great pedigree for education to take me to my post-grad career.
by IcersGuy on Dec 11, 2008 3:20 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Rewording
Kids should definitely grow as an athlete playing in college. I meant that I hope Penn State NEVER becomes a school where HS players ONLY go to prepare for the NFL. Like someone somewhere else said, not turning PSU into a football camp.
I just don’t want PSU to ever lose sight of it’s traditions – the plain uniforms, no name on the jersey, teamwork, education, etc.
by NJ lion on Dec 11, 2008 3:50 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
WTF
the Zug thread was much more fun.
At the start of the season I said I would be happy with either QB, as long as he was the best choice. I happy with QB leading this team, though it sucks to see Devlin go, he has a lot of potential. Devlin will be missed and puts us in a tight spot for the time being. I can’t blame him for leaving as he obviously wants to play and thinks he can play, it’s just he’s second fiddle at PSU.
Hopefully, we can close the deal with Newsome or Boyd (preferrably Newsome, I think he’s better and he also wants to enroll for Spring) and get Paul Jones in 2010.
by Screen Name 20 on Dec 11, 2008 10:57 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Maybe he was Prima Donna?
I wish the best to Devlin, but in my opinion he was never as committed to Penn State has Clark as been. He stayed quiet and played his part admirably for the last 14 or 15 weeks, only to crack and leave us before the biggest game of the season. Clark stuck it out for 3 years plus a year of prep school, and still wasn’t guaranteed the start until he proved it in practice and then again on the field. He wasn’t even guaranteed an extra year of eligibility and had to work for that too.
I think Devlin’s departure just underscores how special and committed Clark is to this team and to Penn State. Clark is what Penn State is all about.
by millzners on Dec 11, 2008 11:03 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
I will miss Devlin
but this is what makes me like Clark better.
Devlin will have 2 years of playing at Delaware, or 1 year of playing at Penn State. I know what I would choose, but I guess that’s me. Also, I was hoping they’d open up the QB competition a bit in the spring. Sure, it would still favor Clark, but Devlin would get his chance to earn the spot again.
In the end I guess Devlin figured he had to do what is best for him, I just don’t see how 2 years at a 1-AA school, or 1 year elsewhere is any better than being the starter at Penn State in 2010 against Alabama and the rest, and with the offense having a year to gel together again, as well as still having an impressive D.
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 11:14 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
"Devlin figured he had to do what is best for him"
Yes exactly. When what was best for him and best for Penn State were not mutually inclusive, he bolted for the door.
Again, best of luck to him, he got us to the Rose Bowl, but I’m glad he’s gone if he puts himself before his team.
by millzners on Dec 11, 2008 11:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He's a college kid
He’s going to do what’s best for him.
Let’s say you were a junior student in an intership team with other students and the employer is only offering one position when you graduate. Let’s also say that the employer has made it clear that they favor the other student by giving him/her more responsibilities, a leadership role, etc.
Would you stick it out for another year in the internship, pretty much knowing you aren’t going to get that job, or would you go elsewhere?
by Screen Name 20 on Dec 11, 2008 11:32 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Atheletics is a different reality.
If Devlin’s playing at Deleware next year, and God forbid Clark blows out his knee, what do you think Devlin is going to be thinking then? Unfortunately, injuries are a big part of sports. Obviously, I don’t wish something of that magnitude on anybody (and that includes kids that play for Michigan, Ohio State, Notre Dame, Iowa, Nebraska, Alabama, Texas, Oklahoma, and Miami), so who’s to say that Devlin maybe wouldn’t have been playing next year. I guess what I’m saying is that there are no guarantees one way or the other.
by Ab4PSU on Dec 11, 2008 11:46 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I guess what I’m saying is that there are no guarantees one way or the other.
You just said it, there’s no guarantee for him. What’s to say Clark stays healthy all year and we get Newsome and the coaches feel he’s more apt to run the offense?
by Screen Name 20 on Dec 11, 2008 12:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
it isn't really the best analogy
since you would be able to stick it out another year where you would then have your dream job, or you could leave, go and work at the local kinkos and be a manager there. When it comes to getting a real job (the NFL), will being a “head intern” for 1 year, along with 2 years of “backup intern” at a major corporation look better than 2 years of being a manager at Kinkos (or say 2 years as “head intern” at a local paper supply company in Scranton?)
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 11:46 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If I'm looking at this right, and I may not considering I've been up all night
I would say that for a “real job” it would look better to be head intern for one year and backup intern for 2 years. That, to me, is what would be best for Devlin.
As I mentioned on a different thread, this might be best for Penn State. This opens up the QB position following ‘09, which means somebody is looking at being a 3 year starter (God forbid, if Clark goes down next year, the new hotshot could be a 4 year starter). Even if Clark remains healthy, we need a backup, so a true freshman QB could get some decent playing time next year. This also eliminates breaking in a new starter in back to back years (Devlin in ’10, ? in ’11), which seems to be a recurring theme for us, and contributes to our less than stellar play at QB year-in and year-out. And I don’t care how good he is; Devlin was going to need significant time before really being able to lead a team, and having a one year starter, then starting over again, is not in the best interest of the program.
by Ab4PSU on Dec 11, 2008 11:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I would say that for a "real job" it would look better to be head intern for one year and backup intern for 2 years. That, to me, is what would be best for Devlin.
At this point that is not the case. He can be head intern for 2 years at a I-AA school, or a backup for 1 and starter for 1 at PSU.
by Screen Name 20 on Dec 11, 2008 12:11 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I guess what I'm saying
is that college kids are going to do what they think is best for them. If he feels that 2 years QB at some other school is better than 1 year leading a team under Jay Pa’s tutelage, good for him.
He wasn’t going to get the starting job next year, so it’s basically a lost year in his mind anyway. What if he chooses a school with a better QB coach, gets one year of practice and then starts his final year…you might say that scenario is better for him.
by Screen Name 20 on Dec 11, 2008 12:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Did you hear the one about the flasher who was considering Retirement?
He decided to stick it out for one more year.
pax et amor
by jtothep on Dec 11, 2008 12:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Team Player First, Ensure Future Success Second...that is what Devlin did
College football is proving ground to move to the next level and play professionally. Teamwork is very important to wins and losses. For the individual with the potential of Pat Devlin, teamwork only gets you so far in terms of fulfilling that personal potential. I think he was a great team player this year during the regular seaons and has now made the best decision for his own future. I question the timing, but I will never question his decision. Why anyone would encourage him to sit on the bench for a period of time when he is primed to showcase his abilities to future employes is ridiculous.
by Rocky Mountain Nittany Lion on Dec 11, 2008 11:55 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
JayPa
In terms of how cool it would be, yes, I agree that 1 year at PSU > 2 years at Delware (although they have cool helmets, I must say). But you have to keep in mind that Devlin would spend the next two years being “trained” by one of the worst position coaches in college football. NFL scouts aren’t stupid, they know this. Remember “acutely undercoached” or whatever the quote was for AM?
His chance at making it to the next level as a QB is better at UD or wherever than it is at PSU. I think, on some level, he already knew this but was willing to give it up for the cool factor of playing at PSU. Now that he is down to one year, at most, of starting, it makes sense to make a change.
by Wlvrn99 on Dec 11, 2008 12:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Especially
if he can be coached by “better” QB coaches.
by Screen Name 20 on Dec 11, 2008 12:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Unless he moonlighted as a surgeon and was able to do brain and heart transplants,
Norm Chow couldn’t have done anything with AM.
by Ab4PSU on Dec 11, 2008 12:07 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Right.
While every great player has to have ego, you have to realize that in the end it’s about wins and losses, and team. That’s why our jerseys have no name. Somebody great came through here before you wearing that number. Clark has proven to take any adversity as a challenge and to rise above it. Perhaps this is Devlin’s first taste of adversity and he didn’t know what to do with it. Maybe he will grow from it (unlike previous QB’s we’ve had). I wish him well. I have no hard feelings.
The thing I find interesting is that Devlin’s parents met with Joe on Monday, yet in today’s papers Devlin’s dad is saying he knew nothing about any of this. Is Mr. Devlin trying to cover his ass to keep from being villified in the press? If there’s someone to blame, it might be the parents. And can you imagine someone going to Paterno with a list of questions and ultimatums? There aren’t many people with the credentials to actually accost him about how he runs his program. Five undefeated seasons, 4 National Championships (fuck the NCAA, the media, and other coaches; I’m counting ‘69 and ’94 as championships to be a dick), a major reason why there’s a #1 vs. #2 bowl game every year), the sole reason there’s replay, several coach of the year honors, and more wins at the Division I-A level than any other coach. If Pat couldn’t make up his mind, I don’t question Joe for doing it for him. If his heart wasn’t in it, get him out. If he stays, then he becomes a locker room cancer like Terrell Owens, and who needs that going into a big bowl game against a good opponent?
by Ab4PSU on Dec 11, 2008 11:26 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The List
What I wouldn’t give to see that list!
by letsgopsu on Dec 11, 2008 1:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
My father-in-law is a stubborn 84 year old Italian
I can’t ever imagine going to him with a list of demands about anything!
What could the Devlins possibly have demanded from him?
by NJ lion on Dec 11, 2008 2:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
DEVLIN IS OUT OF HIS MIND!
I used that headline to get your attention….He must have had alot of things he was really mad about because transfering just doesn’t make any sense for a red-shirt sophomore. If he goes D1 he has to sit a year, and then only plays 1 season.
If he goes FCS (1AA) he plays two years and at best becomes the next Joe Flacco.
I see this as a kid who was stewing over a lack of PT who made a decision for instant gratification, not long term stability.
Happy Trails Pat don’ t let the door hit you on the way out!
Success without honor is like an unseasoned dish, it will fill you up but it won't taste good. - Joe V. Paterno
by carolinaeasy on Dec 11, 2008 11:10 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
at best the next Joe Flacco
the next joe flacco is pretty damned good—first round draft pick and starting in the nfl in his rookie year. pretty much every college qbs dream.
I wouldn't trust old rooster me neither.
by spakajewia on Dec 11, 2008 3:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Everyone is Flacco crazy in here
“hey it happened once for Flacco, and a few other times for some other QBs (as was listed elsewhere), therefore that’s the rule!” when it is really just an exception.
Of course a talent like Devlin will get looks from NFL teams just because of his HS performance now combined with whatever starts he gets wherever he goes. Hopefully he finds a good 1-AA program with a good QB coach that can help him on his way. Success at Penn State would have been a pretty good thing to have on his resume as well, though…ah well
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 5:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Nice work, RUTS
This is one of the most thoughtful, logical pieces you’ve put together recently. 100% spot on.
My two cents:
- You might be upset we have no one in the wings behind Devlin, but how can anyone fault the coaches here? WE’RE BIG TEN CHAMPS, A TOP TEN TEAM, IN THE ROSE BOWL. Whether you liked Devlin more or think he has more upside is completely irrelevant. CLARK IS FIRST TEAM ALL BIG TEN
- I’ll take a team of Clarks, Williams, Norwoods, Butlers, and Lees against a team of Devlins, Broderick Greens, Vidal Hazletons, Michael Shaws etc. every day of the week. Teams win games, and you need to buy into the team concept. Every week, 60+ scholarship players don’t start, but instead play their role, wait their turn, contribute in practice.
- If Devlin doesn’t make the pros (a very, very highly likely situation considering the miniscule number who do), will it be worth it 30 years down the road to start 22 games for Delaware instead of 12 for PSU? To play in front of a few thousand instead of being on the biggest stage in college football?
- List of issues? His parents must have lost their mind somewhere along the drive up 322. He didn’t play, and wasn’t as good as the starting QB. Deal with it. This made me think of Josh Portis’ mom & her antics at Florida & Maryland for some reason. Now, that lady was crazy.
by Tailgate Shogun on Dec 11, 2008 11:21 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Parents
I work in college athletics and I’ll tell you that all parents of athletes are nuts. It’s just to what degree.
by The Mess on Dec 11, 2008 11:28 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You can't argue with results.
Clark had a 60% completion rate, 17-4 TD-INT ratio, and Big Ten champs (not co-champs. Champs, bitches. Period). You can’t undo what’s been done. We’ll never know what would have been had Devlin beaten Clark out. Would we be 12-0, 11-1, 10-2, or 8-4? But 11-1, to me, shows that Clark was the right choice. And I don’t think that there was any way to have split the time between the two any better than it was without hindering Clark’s development. Come to think of it, there were rumors over the summer about Devlin transferring, so this really shouldn’t come as a surprise now. I really don’t care, as long as he goes to a AA school. How Devlin’s parents thought he should have played more is beyond me.
by Ab4PSU on Dec 11, 2008 11:39 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Not that you're making it, but I love the argument...
“…IF DEVLIN WAS THE STARTER WE’D BE 12-0.” I’ve been seeing that so often.
And if the queen had balls…
by Run Up The Score on Dec 11, 2008 2:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I just want to clarify:
I am by no means saying we would have been 12-0. I’m not even close to saying that. Like I’m fond of saying: Is it possible? Yes. Is it probable? That’s the debate. I don’t think we would have been 12-0. Could we have been. We’ll never know. I’m just saying I think the decision to go with Clark, based on the year we had, was the right one.
by Ab4PSU on Dec 11, 2008 2:28 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, no, you're busted
Cairo likes Trannies! Cairo likes Trannies!
pax et amor
by jtothep on Dec 12, 2008 12:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm already over it...
Because Zug is now my friend on Facebook.
by GreatScawt on Dec 11, 2008 11:22 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Oops
My next post will be entitled “Clark”.
Anyway, what I was going to say is that Devlin’s parents seem like an issue here.
by speedomike on Dec 11, 2008 11:39 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Not That I Have Any Real Idea...
but I disagree with that statement. They’re both PSU grads who, as RUTS said, likely steered Pat towards Penn State. The “list” is odd, but it’s an unnamed source, so who knows how truthful it is. Parents are going to defend their children…that’s the way it is.
All I’m saying is there may be a lot more to this story than “1 year at PSU vs. 2 years at an FCS school”. Maybe he really did have a terrible relationship with some coaches. Maybe he didn’t feel like he fit in with the team. Maybe he didn’t like all things PSU as much as those of us here did. There are a lot of other factors to this than just PT on a college football team. Remember this kid is a real person, not just a robot football player.
But whatever the reason(s) may be, it was still was shocking to me. I forget which PSU Football Story highlighted Devlin, but I remember watching it and thinking “This kid really loves Penn State.” Well I guess the production of the story got me, cuz that’s likely not the case.
by Kunk on Dec 11, 2008 1:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I-AA
I did a little research (AKA not working at work), and found out that there are eight QBs in the NFL that have thrown a pass this season and went to a I-AA school. Seven of them have been a starter at one time or another.
Joe Flacco, Delaware
Kurt Warner, Northern Iowa
Ryan Fitzpatrick, Harvard
Tono Romo, Eastern Illinois
Tyler Thigpen, Coastal Carolina
Tavaris Jackson, Alabama A&M
J.T. O’Sullivan, UC-Davis
Quinn Gray has played but not started and went to Florida A&M. You could even throw Jon Kitna as the only D-II QB in the league that has played (Central Washington).
I have no idea what any of it means.
by The Mess on Dec 11, 2008 11:26 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
NFL
That’s kind of the irony of the situation IMHO. If Devlin is making the move in order to have abtter shot at the NFL, I’m not sure 2 years starting at Delaware or Nova or wherever is better than 1 year backing up then 1 year starting at PSU — a major program, on TV every week with a large number of alumni in the NFL (albeit few at QB). If he would have transferred before this season to another 1-A school, it would have made a lot of sense because he’d still have 2 years (potentially) as a starter at such a school. But it just seems odd and counter-productive to me to transfer now and almost more borne out of bitterness over not playing more than over what is truly best for Devlin.
by Laaaaazzz on Dec 11, 2008 11:49 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Scouts and TV Coverage
Pro scouts aren’t doing their job in front of the ABC game of the week. Heck, they would come out to watch a tiny school with a field in a parking lot if there was a prospect with the right tools to make it at the next level.
2 years of showcasing skills is much better than 1 year.
by Rocky Mountain Nittany Lion on Dec 11, 2008 11:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I dunno
I agree that scouts will find you anywhere. But playing at a major school also provides you with better experience playing with and against better calibre athletes. It makes your performance more applicable to the NFL.
It’s pretty rare for 1-AA players to be drafted highly. Part of that is obviously because they are overall less talented than their 1-A counterparts. But part of that is because their performance is viewed with more hesitation.
by Laaaaazzz on Dec 11, 2008 12:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
True
The issue is in player development though. Devlin knows he has talent, and he needs to be coached. He isn’t getting what he needs at PSU, and knows he won’t play next year. What is the difference between sitting a year at PSU then starting 1, or sitting a year at, say, Oklahoma, and starting one? Or Playing 2 years at Delaware?
Bottom line, to get to the NFL, he needs two things: reps and coaching. He’ll get more of the first and a higher quality of the second at places other than PSU.
by Wlvrn99 on Dec 11, 2008 12:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If he goes to a D-1 school
which I don’t think he will, you’ll know he left over a beef with the coaches. Probably Jay. If he goes to a FCS school, than it was playing time.
"I honestly think the "Spread HD" is going to work pretty well, and we’ll be just fine this year". - 8-27-2008
by jesse. on Dec 11, 2008 12:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Academics
I know I will get crap for this since football is life, but….Do they matter at all? He could get hurt and NEVER play in the NFL, and then all he has is a degree from, most likely, an inferior school (not that those other schools are not good, I only went to a state college myself). Apparantly the parents are more worried about the football career than the academic part of this equation. I know I am being a wuss, it’s my feminine nurturing instinct.
by letsgopsu on Dec 11, 2008 1:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Your feminine nurturing instinct...
…sounds hot.
Haha, just lightening the mood!!
"We heard all that talk all week about the SEC and their speed, but we knew personally that they weren't nearly as tough as us."
-Tony Hunt
by Cpiritual27 on Dec 11, 2008 3:05 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
academics probably won't be that big of an issue for him
yeah, PSU is great, but there’s a lot of good schools in 1-AA and division 2 as well. Weill he end up at them? Well chances are good that he’ll go to an academically inferior program, but there’s still a chance he could go somewhere as good or even better (for him)
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 5:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
His academics... are great!
I am fairly certain Pat Devlin made Dean’s list multiple semesters at PSU as a double major and is rumored to have enough credits to graduate now. Too bad that “letsgopsu” just assumes that the academics haven’t been part of the equation in planning for the future.
by girlfoot on Dec 14, 2008 1:17 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
What about Rothlisberger at fake Miami? Aren't they D-II
by PSU Jen on Dec 11, 2008 1:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No
They are in the MAC, so Div 1-A(or FBS) same as schools like Temple, Buffalo, Akron, Ball State etc…
by whiteoutonly on Dec 11, 2008 2:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
thanks for the clarification
i didn’t think they were D1. Show’s what I know!
by PSU Jen on Dec 11, 2008 2:04 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
well if you wanna consider it division 1-A ;-)
they are practically a different division, and even using current naming standards:
Division 1 FBS BCS schools
Division 1 FBS non-BCS schools
Division 1 FCS
Division 2
Division 3
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 5:35 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I have no idea what any of it means.
Thigpen and Gray both are on the Chiefs roster. It means the Chiefs QB’s are awful.
by Cairo on Dec 11, 2008 2:07 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
the Chiefs ARE awful
but they could get bad QBs from division 1-A as well
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 5:36 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
devlin
what it comes down to is what is best for devlin. it’s not being selfish-this team is in good hands, and he could get better coaching (QB-wise) and PT down delaware.
while i don’t want him to go, i understand, and wish him the best of luck. unless, of course, he plays against us. then i want his head.
http://glassesofjoe.blogspot.com/
by psudrozz on Dec 11, 2008 11:27 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Devlin has the skills to be a starter at most schools, so if he wants to try and start somewhere else then let him go at it. It sucks for PSU, but I don’t blame him for leaving (though the timing seems a bit odd to me).
Remember that Iowa game where we saw Derrick Williams taking snaps and playing QB? Yeah, 10 to 1 he’s our second string quarterback for the Rose Bowl. Also, I’d plan on seeing a lot of Wildcat formation with him running all over USC. You know that they won’t run Clark now that there’s really nobody to back him up if he gets another shot to the head.
by smashtheguitar on Dec 11, 2008 11:57 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
I think you could be right on that one, smashtheguitar
No disrespect to Paulie Ciancicillooliiilo but I think that DWill formation may get more run should we have to give DC a ‘rest’ (I refuse to entertain him coming out for any other reason)
I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member
by TheMightyErik on Dec 12, 2008 3:54 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Why does everyone act like there is only 1 right choice?
Reading thru this i see alot people blaming Devlin or no one at all. Which seems weird to me, where are the cries for Jay’s head? I’ll throw some points out there to try and cover the other side of things.
I blame the Coaches!!! (not really) They should not have let this happen. They did make the right choice in selecting DC as the starter heck we’re 11-1, Rose Bowl bound, Big Ten Champs and most importantly nationally relevant again. But who to say there was only one right choice we could be in the same place if Devlin was QB we’ll never know. The way I look at it DC only ran for 265 yards all year so I don’t consider him a running QB. I think PD could have done what he did, he showed poise at the end of the tOSU game.
It’s the coaches that dropped the ball here. PD should have seen the field more and made to feel comfortable. Especially considering our lack of QB recruiting recently, the coaches should have been all to aware of how boned we’d be if PD left and took some extra care to belay his worries. Every close game we played this year was a direct result of being on the road and going completely away from what makes our offense successful. There was no excuse for the Purdue game being as close as it was. PD should have got more playing time than it did against Purdue, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana and since DC isn’t a senior even against Sparty (although I really think Cianciolo should have been in for that whole 4th Q) With the holes are WR next year it should have been easy to convince PD that next year he’ll get a lot of looks at QB with DC in the slot. The coaches dropped the ball here, and we will all look back at this with regret and sorrow.
by platnumkid on Dec 11, 2008 12:03 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
WAIT.
Are you suggesting that the coaching staff would consider taking their ALL-BIG TEN starting QB, splitting him out wide, and letting his back-up throw him the ball, despite him having never before played WR in his life?
Oh lord, we need a different news cycle to come along. It’s getting pertty freaking strange in here.
How many more snaps per game would have made Devlin happy? 5? 15? All of them? He wasn’t the starting QB, wasn’t happy coming off the bench, wanted packed his suitcase. End of story. He wanted to start 24 games at Delaware instead of 13 at PSU.
by Tailgate Shogun on Dec 11, 2008 3:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
didn't you get the memo?
Clark kinda looks like Robinson, therefore has the same abilities and skilltypes.
In related news: did you know Penn State has white LBs?
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 5:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ah
Joe only plays people with Italian names, too!
Devlin was an Irish kid, therefore Jay was instructed to bench him.
by Tailgate Shogun on Dec 11, 2008 9:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Our starting QBs real name is Daryl Clarkiolo
Little know fact. Look it up.
by NJ lion on Dec 11, 2008 10:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
True!
His middle name is Giussepie
by Tailgate Shogun on Dec 12, 2008 6:45 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
not completely related
but I love how the stadium sound effects guy is named Guido. Has anyone ever figured out if that’s his real name, or just a nickname that everyone officially uses (like “Juice” Williams)?
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 12, 2008 12:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I just had an epiphany.
We will be 5-7 next year because this caused us all to worry and not have faith in Zug.
Zug will correct us and show us the error of our ways.
by Ab4PSU on Dec 11, 2008 12:03 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
He smote us
because he lost the poll to J Leman.
Or maybe J Leman unleashed his wrath due to our questioning his Americanness?
by Cairo on Dec 11, 2008 2:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The poll is not yet closed
Tell your friends. Tell your family. Tell other Penn State message boards. We can still win! We only need 192 votes! We can do it!
Throw it to Zug!
by ReadingRambler on Dec 11, 2008 3:14 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
True Pocket Passers like Devlin . . .
are a waisting thier time with Penn State anyway. The only successful one we’ve had in the last 15 years was Collins and Jay Pa was NOT the QB’s coach. I dont blame Devlin one bit, and one might question why he came to Penn State in the first place? He had to know that Duesch Morelli ruined it any potential chance a Passer might have at Penn State.
Although its not clear how good Devline actually is, the thought of another Kerry Collins was awefully tantilizing
by TITCUS on Dec 11, 2008 12:36 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Uh oh
Report on Fight on State says Zug and Devlin had a good relationship.
by speedomike on Dec 11, 2008 12:41 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Poor Devlin
“Transferred” is another word for “Vaporized”.
Throw it to Zug!
by ReadingRambler on Dec 11, 2008 12:43 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Devlin in the next Jeff Hostetler
He will be good wherever he goes and will eventually be a pretty damn good NFL QB! Bad timing but best wishs to Pat! As for Kevin Newsome…….if you are readying this hurry up and sign already…….we want to welcome you into the fold!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I thought only safeties played 15 yards off the ball?
by pic15 on Dec 11, 2008 12:43 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I'm really amazed
Seriously, does he not realize the amount of bling that players get for going to the Rose Bowl?
by Bleed Blue 'n White on Dec 11, 2008 12:56 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I sorta wonder
if early stages of the Rose Bowl game plan isn’t/wasn’t looking like it was going to see him with the kind of playing time that DC saw in last year’s Alamo Bowl and that was the proverbial “straw”. As well as maybe something he perceived as being what he had to look forward to next year. Perhaps an item on “the list” as well?
I’m a little surprised. You didn’t get the impression that he was the kind that was going to bail. I also sincerely thought that there was a chance that next year would “resemble” a 2QB system (or as close to one as you might ever see at PSU) given Joe’s revelation that Jay wanted him to play DC more last year and that he felt he probably should have done that. Maybe PD saw that DC was going to get the same type of treatment as AM (whipping out those initials PDQ) in that regard.
"the secret to loving your job is having a hobby that you really despise"
by nitwit86 on Dec 11, 2008 2:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
well as for the Rose Bowl
I don’t imagine they’d utilize Devlin like they did with Clark last year. For prepping Clark in the Alamo Bowl it was basically a winter practice since he was gonna be our new starter and we hadn’t used him all year. Devlin wasn’t expected to be our starter next year, however next year I could have seen them start to work Devlin into the rotation more, especially if/when we dropped out of any serious title hunt. The way Joe was talking about regretting not getting Clark meaningful snaps earlier, you would figure Devlin would expect good things next year (though perhaps he thought they should have come as early as this year, where he actually got some pretty significant playing time under Penn State QB standards). Now he’ll never have that opportunity to come through next year, though.
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 5:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Has anyone considered...
that maybe Newsome wink/nudge already indicated in some subtle way that he’s on his way, and considering our move to a spread option-oriented offense a commitment of a young running QB stud may have spooked Devlin away? Might not be what happened but I don’t think it’s completely implausible…
by markmayisadoosh on Dec 11, 2008 1:01 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Consideration
A lot of people have commented on that, but it goes against the rumors that Newsome might be a silent verbal to Va Tech.
by Laaaaazzz on Dec 11, 2008 1:08 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
"Silent Verbal"
Is that even possible?
by shadowfax on Dec 11, 2008 6:07 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Silent verbal... how retarded
I watch the recruiting trail quite closely and that is one of the most ridiculous comments I have seen in a while when it appeared the other day. Those kids commit, decommit and give a different favorite about every other week.
On a reality check kinda note, I do think that PD xfr’ing will get Newsome’s or some other kid’s attention. (providing we are not too country, that is)
I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member
by TheMightyErik on Dec 12, 2008 4:01 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
alas, the shirt says it all
Too country since 1855
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 12, 2008 12:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I thought that too
But I think that given our track record with displacing a starting quarterback (it’s hard) that he’d be pretty comfortable knowing that he would at least be the starter for one year.
"I honestly think the "Spread HD" is going to work pretty well, and we’ll be just fine this year". - 8-27-2008
by jesse. on Dec 11, 2008 1:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Posted this as an update above, but...
Funny, in retrospect:
by Run Up The Score on Dec 11, 2008 2:10 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
The whole family, house, etc.
…looks like it came out central casting for a sit-com. It’s all so weirdly perfect.
by Run Up The Score on Dec 11, 2008 2:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
still woulda like to seen this upper middle class family (or so it looks) from Chester county, PA
confront the grumpy old Italian man from Brooklyn standing (with a cane) in the way of their and their son’s dreams holding a piece of paper with a bullet point list on it.
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 5:44 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
"Air Devlin, We hardly knew ye..."
I, for one, will be sorry to see him leave the program. This kid was an 8,000+ yard passer in HS, and, contrary to what has been posted here, ran a “Spread Offense” at Downingtown. Nittany Nation should be calling for Jay’s head right now.!! Just remember that two years ago, the Florida Gators won the National Championship with a 2 QB system. Just saying that the coaches should have found ways to get him some playing time. By the way. after DC Graduates next year, Devlin would have had TWO YEARS of eligibility remaining.
by gridstar on Dec 11, 2008 2:36 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
He would've had one year after Clark was gone.
by Run Up The Score on Dec 11, 2008 2:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Besides...
…not all spread offenses are the same. For example, Purdue’s is totally different than what RichRod used at WVU.
by Run Up The Score on Dec 11, 2008 2:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Correct me if I m wrong, but....
I believe Devlin still has a "redshirt year’ coming to him…would he not be eligible to return as a 5th year senior in 2011?
by gridstar on Dec 11, 2008 2:59 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Shhh....
Telling the crazy people facts only makes them madder.
by Tailgate Shogun on Dec 11, 2008 3:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know.
Clark and Devlin were highly similar QB’s. We don’t have the talent dearth like we did in the Mills years when PSU put Mrob out wide, and neither of Clark or Devlin fits the Tebow “FB/QB” mode that was successful at Florida.
by Cairo on Dec 11, 2008 2:41 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe State College is just "too country" for him
Maybe he just got tired of all the hills and cows and open space and fresh air
by NJ lion on Dec 11, 2008 2:36 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
don't forget the chickens
you can have 4 of them! (as long as none of them are cocks)
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 5:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
if they woulda backed the chickens down to 2, we would have landed Pryor....
I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member
by TheMightyErik on Dec 12, 2008 4:04 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Devlin
I always see him in the Business Building on Tuesdays and Thursdays. When I saw him today I realized that it would be the last time. I was half temped to demand that he gives back him Alamo Bowl bookbag he always uses.
I almost felt bad for him having to walk around campus today. Talk about a walk of shame.
Let's Go State
by rmcmillen50 on Dec 11, 2008 2:45 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
see, that's the bling he's missing out on
now he’ll never have that Rose Bowl bookbag he was dreaming about for Christmas
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 5:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I wish him the best
It’s unfortunate that everything didn’t align better for him, but that’s the way life goes sometimes. If he was truly unhappy, then I’m glad he decided to take a turn control and move in another direction. He’s still at that point in his life where he can make this major change without too much negative rammification for himself or the program.
(And let’s be honest – if he had waited too much longer, we would’ve likely been in a river of excrement in a Native American vessel without means of propulsion. You know – In terms of recruiting.)
And let’s stop with this OH NOES!! reaction in terms of our future. It sucks, but we’re not dead. I would hope you have more faith in this program to stay afloat instead of floundering like FSU, Miami, or ND.
by IcersGuy on Dec 11, 2008 3:33 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
well, they at least have some scholarship QBs in their system
not saying we won’t find a diamond in the rough with some guys, but I imagine Royster and Greene and Carter etc will have a hard time running the ball when we have no passing threat.
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 5:49 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
How funny would it be...
.. if he gets to Delaware and ends up not beating out Robby Schoenhoft? I mean, that kid has one year already in the UD system, has the pedigree – originally went to OSU.
Did Delaware promise Devlin the starting spot? If not, his parents might be showing up at the coaches office with a list of “issues” in the future.
by Tailgate Shogun on Dec 11, 2008 3:47 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Villanova
I think the hot rumor is that Devlin is going to Villanova, not Delaware. Take it FWIW. I have no idea what their QB situation is.
by Laaaaazzz on Dec 11, 2008 3:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Devlin to the Eastern Illinois Sex Panthers
You heard it here first.
OK, I made it up, but still – there has to be a chance of it.
by Cairo on Dec 11, 2008 3:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe on to something
What if he transferred to Youngstown State and played against us in 2010?
Mike
Black Shoe Diaries
by BSD on Dec 11, 2008 5:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Doesn't
the school you are transferring from have to approve the school you are transferring to? If that is the case I doubt Penn State would approve him going to a team they have scheduled in the next 2 seasons.
by whiteoutonly on Dec 11, 2008 6:08 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I recall something along those lines
after ND’s QB (who got benched in the GaTech game last year) transferred to some Illinois school I think that was on ND’s schedule next year maybe?
It might only come into play if the teams will face each other, though.
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 6:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, but he left because Clausen promised that if he played...
ND would win 4 MNCs.
by NJ lion on Dec 11, 2008 6:20 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
you'd think he'd want to stick around for some bling!
I hear it is even better than Rose Bowl bling.
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 6:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Tell that to the Philly Inquirer website
Interesting if true.
by Tailgate Shogun on Dec 11, 2008 9:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Hmmm
I thought I read somewhere that Pat’s father hadn’t heard or seen his son in “a while”, yet it says here they met with JoePa several days ago.
Which is right?
by Mr. Rosewater on Dec 11, 2008 4:10 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
David Jones on PennLive
Whatever that’s worth:
“I know nothing about it,” said Devlin’s father Mark when asked about his son’s transfer. “You’ll have to call Penn State’s athletic department and find out. … I know nothing and I haven’t heard from Pat, so that’s all I can tell you.”
by Mr. Rosewater on Dec 11, 2008 11:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
probably didn't know anything about it being official
since JoePa apparently made the decision for them. There’s no way he didn’t know anything about it.
Kinda makes me wonder if this was just some sort of powerplay (by the Devlins) gone horribly wrong. “We know you don’t have any QB’s lined up after Clark, so either put Devlin in more in the Rose Bowl and next year (preferrably starting) or he’s transferring”
JoePa thinks for a second, “well, it was nice knowing you all. Don’t bother checking your locker, his stuff is waiting by the door outside”
Not saying this is actually what happened with Devlin, but wouldn’t really be surprised, either, if it was.
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 12, 2008 12:28 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I can see that kinda thing happening
The old guy damn sure lets possible incoming xfrs know where he stands so there may be some truth in the fact that an outgoing kid, even if it is a rumor or power play, has effectively signed his walking papers
I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member
by TheMightyErik on Dec 12, 2008 12:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If this was a powerplay by the Devlins gone wrong, it:
Reminds me of the Dave Chappelle skits “When keeping it real goes wrong.”
Makes me want to be a fly on their wall in Downingtown hearing them say “We fucked up.” Actually, that’s part of another Chappelle skit about him coming from a long line of protestors and dissidents.
And if Joe did clean his locker out for him, he had to. Do you want that potential cancer and distraction ongoing in the locker room, or do you make a clean break and move on? And I’m not calling Devlin a cancer; just the situation.
by Ab4PSU on Dec 12, 2008 3:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
right
also, it wasn’t like Joe just said “you’re gone” and cleaned out the locker. From the one report, at least, Joe asked him if he was gonna stick around for the Rose Bowl or not, and when Devlin didn’t have an answer, Joe just made it for him.
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 12, 2008 4:36 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
JoePa is nails... I don't care what anyone else says on the subject.
Any chance that the Zug could be a distant relative of said coach? It would explain A LOT
I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member
by TheMightyErik on Dec 12, 2008 5:04 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The sky is not falling
Even though driving in this crappy cold rain it sure feels like it’s falling.
Anyhow, I found some perspective during the miserable drive: Sean Lee was going to be the heart and soul of our D this year, and then he got hurt and didn’t play a down, and somehow our D is still one of the top in the nation.
Devlin leaving creates a (future) big hole, but if we found a way to survive without Lee, we can find a future QB. Maybe we’ll even find some hidden gem that will become our next big star.
by NJ lion on Dec 11, 2008 6:20 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
not sure if that's the best comparison
Since Hull was arguably our weakest link on defense. And on defense it is a bit easier to make up for one player being sub-par. Even on offense there are some players you can adjust for. The guy that touches the ball on every play, however, is the hardest player on the team to replace. Not saying impossible, but just harder than anywhere else.
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 11, 2008 6:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You're right
I’m just trying to put a non-negative vibe out there.
by NJ lion on Dec 11, 2008 10:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Why does everyone wish this guy the best ?? He quit on us. In my book, he’s the same as Pryor.
by doyle37 on Dec 12, 2008 7:19 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Well
He obviously wasn’t happy at Penn State. So you can’t blame the kid for leaving. I think the timing could have been better. He could have stuck it out through the Rose Bowl. But once you’ve decided you don’t want to be there you might as well pack it in sooner rather than later.
Plus, it’s just the classy thing to do. Sometimes it tastes like dirt, but you have to grin and swallow it anyway. It’s like when a popular co-worker leaves your company to go work for a rival. It’s devastating, but you still wish them well.
Mike
Black Shoe Diaries
by BSD on Dec 12, 2008 7:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Did this happen?
That Michigan dude who couldn’t work the copier left for a rival? Wait, he was popular?
pax et amor
by jtothep on Dec 12, 2008 12:04 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I read somewhere (forget where) that Paterno didn't even put him on the roster for the Rose Bowl
I can’t imagine that is true, considering he’s our back-up QB and all, but the rumors swirling around this are going to get as weird as the ones saying the MSU game was going to be Joe’s last
by NJ lion on Dec 12, 2008 6:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Pryor
I’ve never gotten the Pryor hate. He didn’t “quit on us” or do anything against PSU. He chose the school he felt was best for him. Just because he’s from Pennsylvania doesn’t mean he’s obligated to go to PSU.
by Laaaaazzz on Dec 12, 2008 8:44 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Good point
Mike Shaw might be a better example.
Mike
Black Shoe Diaries
by BSD on Dec 12, 2008 9:03 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Mike Shaw is a much better example
as for the Pryor hate…it is probably more disappointment, combined with his backhanded reason for not going to Penn State. “It’s too country”, unlike that budding metropolis of Columbus, OH.
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 12, 2008 12:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Because he's human
And, believe it or not, regardless if he’s "committed’ to my alma mater or not, he still deserves the best that life can offer him. He didn’t kill anyone, he’s not morally evil. He made a decision that wasn’t in line with our hopes. So it goes – that’ll happen in life.
We cannot forget that these are just kids/young adults, playing a game for our (and their) enjoyment.
by IcersGuy on Dec 12, 2008 9:17 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
woah woah woah, slow down there
He didn’t kill anyone (that we know of). He’s not He may not be morally evil (lol at my almost Freudian slip there where I typed morelli evil).
Unless, of course, you’ve been with him every second of his life to attest to the fact that he indeed has never killed anyone. ;-)
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 12, 2008 12:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If he had killed anyone (innocent),
Zug would’ve vaporized of Devlin by now.
Trust me.
by IcersGuy on Dec 12, 2008 12:58 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
True Story
For his decision to spell out “CRAP” instead of “ZUG,” the Princeton Marching Band’s drum major was immediately vaporized. They don’t march anymore.
"We heard all that talk all week about the SEC and their speed, but we knew personally that they weren't nearly as tough as us."
-Tony Hunt
by Cpiritual27 on Dec 12, 2008 9:23 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Question
The fact the senior Paterno made this decision for the family is amusing to me, mostly for the reaction it must have caused – as in, shit, that didn’t work out how we expected. Anyway, was the sense with you all that he had nfl skills? Not zug, omniscient skills, but a good enough arm and head?
by txhawkeye on Dec 12, 2008 12:36 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
he looked like it
we obviously didn’t get a chance to really evaluate him, but he definitely had an arm, and seemed to have the head. He was also a pretty good runner (though not the power running style of say Tebow).
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 12, 2008 12:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Pat Devlin
Without Devlin we would be 10-2 going to the toilet bowl. Bad decision to let him go. Clark goes down in any game and it is over for the Lions. This guy is going to the NFL, a la Kerry Collins, too bad for us. It is a real shame that Jay Paterno is the QB coach, that guy couldn’t carry Devlins jock! We are one concussion away from a Notre Dame season. Wake-up, we lost a great kid with pin point passing ability who will be playing on Sundays in the big boy league.
by Devlin Fans on Dec 13, 2008 2:09 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
corrections
while I agree that Devlin has potential to be a great QB, and definitely kept the team together at the end of the OSU game, he didn’t really do anything spectacular that Cianciolioililolililio couldn’t have done. Perhaps he kept the defense honest against the pass so they couldn’t just load up on Royster, but as a QB, when you win the game by handing off 3 times to a RB following an overthrown pass (that was thankfully called for PI), and then diving over the goal line on a QB sneak, then you can’t really claim you are a superior QB to anyone. So we’d still have had a very good chance at winning the game in OSU.
Even if we didn’t, we’d be 10-2 and likely going to the Fiesta Bowl, just swapping places with OSU. I’d hardly call that the toilet bowl, especially after 1987.
This wasn’t really Penn State’s decision to let him go. Sure, I suppose they could have given him the starting QB job (and I do believe they should have had him start, or at least come in, at Iowa) but they didn’t. It wasn’t like they did it to say “go away, we don’t want you.” They did it because they felt Clark was the superior QB, and considering he was All Big 10 QB this year, it is hard to argue they made the wrong choice. Heck, Clark was getting some Heisman consideration before the Iowa game.
Devlin leaving of course hurts us MUCH worse if Clark goes down, and especially all next year when we have no backup other than a walk-on, and for 2010 when that walk-on is currently pegged to be our starter.
Will Devlin go to the NFL? Maybe…maybe not. I guess we’ll see how he does at Delaware. I wish the best for him, and would love it for him if he makes it to the NFL, but there are a LOT of QBs out there (figure 120+ starters in Division 1-A alone, plus a handful from 1-AA schools) every year that have dreams of going pro. Figure even if only 10% of them actively try to go pro, that’s still 12 or so guys EVERY YEAR. There are only 32 teams, and most of the good QBs keep their starting jobs for 10+ years. Not a lot of room for new guys.
I completely agree that it is a shame that Jay Paterno is the QB coach. He has shown that he has some talents when it comes to coaching football, but unfortunately coaching QBs is NOT one of those talents. It is also ridiculous that we have a few guys on the coaching staff who have actually PLAYED meaningful snaps at the QB position, and yet it is Jay who is coaching our QB talent. I wish they’d just slap co-offensive coordinator on him and promote Big Red to be the QB coach (or find some other QB coach…heck, hire the guy away from Delaware if he’s so much better).
So yes, in the end, losing Devlin will hurt bad, but it wasn’t our decision to get rid of him, it was his decision to leave. If you honestly think that benching Clark this season in any game other than Iowa was the answer (supposedly the “final straw” for Devlin), then I’m afraid you might make worse personnel decisions than the current staff.
by The JuggerNitt on Dec 13, 2008 7:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
FYI... I think you left out 3 L's, 1 I, and at least 3 O's in Paulie's name
I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member
by TheMightyErik on Dec 14, 2008 1:00 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
At least we're not Michigan
I just read that Sam McGuffie and 5 other Wolverines have recently decided to transfer (in addition to all those who decided earlier in the year.)
Gee whiz, that Rich Rodriguez must be a real swell guy to play for.
by NJ lion on Dec 13, 2008 1:56 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
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