Penn State star brings biggest mismatch potential on defense in all of college football

There’s nothing more terrifying than a defensive player who can line up anywhere at any time. That’s what Penn State has with defender Abdul Carter , who is moving to defensive end this season after playing linebacker previously. An impending force from every alignment, Carter lands at No. 5 on the Most Terrifying College Football Players going into the 2024 season.

Carter is one of the more unique defenders you are going to find in all of college football. Listed at 6-3 and 259 pounds, Carter has an impressive frame that was advanced from the minute he stepped on campus. After playing near 250 pounds in 2023 as a sophomore, there isn’t much worry that Carter won’t be able to handle the increased weight. His athleticism should be able to withstand those gains.

During his first two years in Happy Valley, Carter has recorded 104 total tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, one interception, three forced fumbles, and nine pass breakups. Playing between MIKE and WILL linebacker, he has made plays all over the field.

When you do pop on the film, the best part of Carter’s game is his explosiveness. The closing speed he possesses is rare. The Nittany Lions have been utilizing that explosiveness and closing speed a lot as a blitzer from the second level, creating a ton of plays in the backfield. Carter has also been used off the edge at times, although that has been a bit more irregular.

With Chop Robinson and Adisa Isaac leaving for the NFL this offseason, there is a void that needs to be filled on the edge. Along with Dani Dennis-Sutton, Carter had even talent to soften that blow big time. That position actually had a chance to get even more athletic with those two, but how well the transition will go depends on how easily Carter takes to the position.

Regardless, Carter is a terrifying blend of power and explosiveness for opponents. He’s a tremendous athlete who looks to take a massive step as a football player in 2024. All the tools are there.

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