Introducing KSN on BWI: Better or Worse? Penn State defense

Blue White Illustrated is committed to bringing you the best and freshest Penn State sports content. In our efforts to diversify what we do on the Blue White Illustrated YouTube Show, we’re adding a new show to the lineup. 

Now, with the help of the Keystone Sports Network, we’re airing the Wednesday edition of the Keystone Kickoff Show, which I have done for the last several years. Those of you who follow the show know that it’s a fun and laid-back but professional production with myself and Jim Galanti, the show’s founder.

Each week we discuss the relevant Penn State Football news and topics that come up here on the website. For me, this is a no-brainer addition to our shows on the YouTube channel. I have enjoyed working with Jim on the show for the last few years, and it’s an excellent opportunity for me to let someone else steer the show so I can sit back and focus on providing insightful commentary. It’s a good change-up to add another voice to the channel as well. I hope you enjoy the show! 

Better or Worse? Penn State defense

This week’s episode focuses on the “Better or Worse?” series of articles from July. Today’s show focuses on the Penn State defensive front seven, going through the linebackers, defensive ends, and defensive tackles. We add extra context and nuance to the articles, so be sure to check out the show. 

Here’s a section of each article. 

Linebackers: Versatility leads the way

In just one season, Penn State’s linebackers went from a thin group of individuals to a big, fast, and explosive group at the center of the defense. However, our projections about this group’s versatility are all theoretical. Diaz and his players have been very tight-lipped about what they’re cooking up for Abdul Carter, Curtis Jacobs, and the rest of the group. 

But the logic in our speculation is sound. The team now has the flexibility to play individuals in their best situation. Now, Elsdon and King can be early-down run-stuffers to suit their talents and then come off the field in favor of a different combination in the box. Carter can rush the passer or play in coverage, and Jacobs can fill in by doing a little of everything. It’s hard not to get excited about the possibilities this group presents. 

Defensive ends: Dennis-Sutton could elevate group

Replacing Tarburton in the rotation is five-star defensive end Dani Dennis-Sutton. The young pass rusher saw extensive action last year and has turned the corner in several key aspects of his game this spring. He was a nightmare on the Penn State White team during the Blue-White game and is a wildcard for this fall. His emergence as a superstar pass rusher could give the Nittany Lions three legitimate forces on the edge and could push the top two for playing time. Also, at 6-5, 258-pounds he’s a legitimate factor in the running game. 

Defensive Tackles: Depth continues to improve

While they have yet to flash high-end skills, players like Dvon Ellies and Jordan van den Berg are steady presences in the rotation. Now in his third season, van den Berg is another player with a chance to take a step in production. He’s a good blend of strength and quickness that can be a disruptive force on the interior if he can put it all together. 

This year’s youth wildcard is redshirt freshman Kaleb Artis. The 320-pound defensive tackle flashed during the Blue-White Game and drew praise for being ahead of schedule this year. However, he was a raw prospect out of high school, so being ahead of that curve could mean a wide delta of outcomes. He’s an exciting possibility for the rotation if he can continue to prove he’s a dependable player. Penn State desperately needs his size on the interior. 

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