Why can the Penn State offense be better in 2022? Jahan Dotson offers these reasons for optimism
Penn State rarely got going on offense in 2021.
Why should anyone believe that will change in 2022?
The Lions return many key pieces in coordinator Mike Yurcich’s second season. But, they also lose their star receiver in Jahan Dotson. Three first-team offensive linemen have moved on, as well.
It gives the coaches on that side of the ball plenty to figure out this spring. Those questions come in addition to ones about how the run game can become a strength and whether or not Sean Clifford can stay healthy and lead the offense on a consistent basis, of course.
Spring is a time when hope springs eternal, however. So, why is there reason to believe the attack will be better this fall?
“Guys are used to the system,” Dotson said Thursday. “We have a veteran quarterback who’s very good, who showed that today [while throwing to Dotson]. We got a receiver room that has a lot of talent around him, a running room that has a lot of talent. I think the best running back in the country coming in this year [in Nicholas Singleton]. There’s a lot to look forward to with this group.
“I can’t wait for these guys. I was the older upperclassmen coming in with these guys when they were coming in their freshman year. So, seeing them grow as players and as people, it’s pretty cool.”
Who will replace Dotson in the receivers room?
Penn State thinks it has this answer. Dotson does, too.
“Number three, Parker Washington,” Dotson said.
Washington was the Lions’ second-leading receiver in 2021. He caught 64 passes for 820 yards and four touchdowns during his first season with the Lions. Now, he is looked at as the likely leading receiver for position coach Taylor Stubblefield’s bunch this year.
“He’s gonna have big shoes to fill and he’s going to do it,” Dotson said. “I know the capability he has.
“He’s one of the best receivers in the country. I truly believe that, and he’s gonna prove it to you guys this year. You guys are gonna see a lot of highlight plays and a lot of big numbers from him. I just can’t wait to watch him.”
Another player who is going to be in that conversation is transfer Mitchell Tinsley. He shined at Western Kentucky and now is going through his first spring practice at Penn State.
Other names Penn State fans should know
Dotson rattled off a few other names to know, as well.
“I would definitely say Malik Meiga is bound for a big year,” Dotson said. “He’s ready for it. He’s working. He has the mindset that he wants to get better every single time he’s on the field.
“KeAndre Lambert-[Smith] is also another guy that’s going to have a big year. I just can’t wait to see those guys really turn from the babies that I saw them come in at 18 years old to making big plays on Saturday.”
Penn State will hold its third spring practice on Saturday.
