Christian Hackenberg

Hackenberg didn’t live up to his billing in 2014 as he failed to improve upon a promising freshman campaign. He threw for 22 more yards last season than he did as a freshman, but took steps back in every other major statistical category. His touchdowns went down from 20 to 12, his interception total ballooned from 10 picks to 15, his completion rate fell from an already subpar 58.9 percent to 55.8 percent, and his YPA fell from 7.54 to 6.15. That said, there is some explanation for the regression as he had to play behind a sieve of an offensive line while learning a new offense. This year, Hackenberg is primed to live up to his first-round potential with an increased comfort level in the offense, four projected returning starters on the offensive line, and a pair of stud receivers in DaeSean Hamilton and Geno Lewis. While Penn State’s offense won’t be in the same stratosphere as some of the high-flying attacks elsewhere across the nation, Hackenberg’s ability, weapons, and improved supporting cast should equate to marked improvement over his 2014 season.