Big Ten Football Preview: Quarterback Rankings

3. Penn State Nittany Lions: Christian Hackenberg, Junior

Nov 29, 2014; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Christian Hackenberg (14) scrambles during the fourth quarter against the Michigan State Spartans at Beaver Stadium. Michigan State defeated Penn State 34-10. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O

Christian Hackenberg’s play had been inconsistent to say the least during his two years at Penn State. In his first season, Hackenberg completed 231 passes for 2,955 yards, 20 touchdowns, and only 10 interceptions. However, as a sophomore, his play drastically declined. He completed 270 passes for 2,977 yards and just a measly 12 touchdowns. The stat that was even more alarming was the 15 balls he threw to the other team. If it helps at all, the entire Nittany Lions offense stunk up the joint last season.

In all fairness to Hackenberg, Penn State had to deal with a number of injuries and simply a lack of depth on the offensive side of the ball. But, they have re-tooled an appear to be in for a big year in 2015. If Hackenberg can get some help from his skilled players, as well as his offensive line, it would not come as a surprise if he was one of the best quarterbacks in the nation by the end of the season.

All eyes will be on Hackenberg this season, which means plenty of pressure. This is nothing for him though, as he has battled adversity for his entire playing career. For as hard as he works, he is due for another big season.