Big Ten QB Profile: Penn State's Drew Allar

By Dorrington Myers

The Big Ten may just have a dark horse quarterback in Drew Allar . I project Allar to put up some good numbers for the Nittany Lions this season. Allar has untapped potential and the toughness that coaches love. There’s a new breath of fresh air down in Happy Valley, for good reason.

Humble Beginnings

Allar's path to Penn State may have been shocking to some. He attended Medina High School in Medina, Ohio. In high school, Allar was spectacular, ultimately earning many offers alongside multiple accolades. He got the attention of some of the best college programs in the country. The Buckeyes offered but did it late. Allar was already committed to Penn State by then and he’s a guy who’s big on loyalty.

To sum up his high school career, Allar was a multi-sport athlete, lettering in baseball, basketball, and football. Allar holds the school and county records for career passing yards with 9,103, career passing touchdowns with 98, passing yards in a season with 4,444, passing touchdowns in a season with 48, passing yards in a game with 525, and passing touchdowns in a game totaling 5. These are some gaudy numbers. Following, are a few of Allar’s accomplishments in high school:

- Max Preps Ohio Player of the Year

- First-team all-state selection in Division I

- Greater Cleveland Conference Offensive Player of the Year

- Ohio Prep Sportswriters Association Northeast Ohio Inland District Division I Offensive Player of the Year

- Cleveland.com Offensive Player of the Year

Penn State Commitment

Allar committed to Penn State in 2022, choosing the Nittany Lions over several programs. His decision was influenced by Penn State's historic football tradition, the coaching staff's goal for his development, and the opportunity to compete at one of the highest levels of college football. Ohio State lost out on the Allar sweepstakes by taking too long. Allar's commitment marked a solid win for head coach James Franklin and his staff, who saw Allar as their quarterback of the future.

Freshman Season

Allar's season in 2022 was a time of growth and learning. While he saw limited action behind an experienced starter in Sean Clifford, he used this season to become familiar with the college game, perfect his mechanics, and master Penn State's offensive system. His brief appearances on the field were enough to showcase his potential, leaving fans excited for what’s next.

Sophomore Season

In 2023, Allar was handed the keys and never looked back. He put up impressive numbers, ultimately showing why he’s the guy for the job. In terms of stats, he did an excellent job protecting the ball, throwing 25 touchdowns against 2 interceptions. He posted a touchdown-to-interception ratio of 12.5-to-1, finishing second nationally behind Bo Nix, (15-to-1). He was tied for the Big Ten lead in passing touchdowns with 25; T-18th nationally, finished second in points responsible for with 176; T-26th, fourth in passing efficiency with 136.9 and passing yards with 2,631, fifth in yards per pass attempt with 6.76. Andy Kotelnicki and Allar are a dangerous combination for defenses. The new hire proves that Penn State is looking to further highlight Allar's strengths and shows they're on a mission this year.

What Will This Season Bring?

Looking ahead to the 2024 season, Allar is ready to do work as Penn State's starting quarterback. He stands 6'5", weighing 238 pounds. Allar has the prototypical build that NFL teams have always searched for . Past that, it's Allars' IQ that sets him apart. Known for his poise under pressure, ability to read defenses, and leadership qualities, Allar isn’t just a physical specimen but also a field general.

During the spring game, Allar did a decent job, displaying his decision-making ability and precision passing. He was able to spread the ball to multiple receivers and complete some difficult throws. The most important part was how he protected the ball and commanded the offense. I was impressed with his ability to handle that.

The Intangibles

Beyond his physical skills, Allar's leadership and work ethic are key ingredients of his personality. Coaches and teammates consistently praise his dedication during team workouts, his hunger for film study, and his ability to keep his team composed, as if they’ve been there before. His maturity and confidence create the trust and belief among with his teammates. These are qualities essential for a quarterback, especially at a program with high esteem like Penn State.

The Future

As Drew Allar is the driver of this luxury vehicle called the offense, the expectations are through the roof. Allar is projected to be a potential breakout star in the Big Ten, with the ability to lead Penn State to a conference championship and a playoff berth. His name is already being mentioned in early Heisman Trophy conversations. This is a testament to the work that he’s put in.

For Penn State fans, Allar generates excitement and gives the hope of a National Championship. The combination of his talent, leadership, and untapped potential makes Allar an intriguing player to watch this season. As he prepares to take the field at Beaver Stadium, Allar is not just playing for a win-lose record but also for his legacy as the next great quarterback to don the blue and white.

Conclusion

Allar's story is just the beginning, but the early chapters present a bright future for both him and Penn State football. With a solid foundation, determination, and the support of the Nittany Lion faithful, Allar is ready to etch his name into Nittany Lions immortality. This season, Happy Valley will be exciting, watching as Drew Allar leads the Lions on what promises to be an electrifying season.