We’re bringing a new twist to the “Days Until” series by moving beyond just jersey numbers and it starts with honoring Beau Pribula’s gritty performance at Wisconsin last season.
With Penn State trailing at halftime and Drew Allar unable to play after injuring his knee in the final minute of the first half, it was Beau’s turn to shine under the bright lights in Madison. The first couple of drives looked shaky, as Beau got accustomed to the hostile crowd at Wisconsin’s Camp Randall Stadium. In the meantime, the defense did its job holding the Badgers offense in check, with Jaylen Reed notching a pick-six to put PSU ahead midway through the third quarter.
The pick-six seemed to light a spark under the offense and more importantly, allow Beau to commandeer the offense seeking to build upon a lead, as opposed to playing from behind. While he did rip off a few decent runs with his legs, it was Beau’s arm that was a difference-maker, as he racked up 98 yards passing and a touchdown.
Some of Beau’s throws were the type that you just didn’t know he was capable of until he got a chance: Threading the needle, keeping his eyes downfield and his feet set to find an open receiver just as he’s about to get leveled by a Wisconsin defender, and the patience displayed waiting for Khalil Dinkins to get open in the end zone on his TD pass.
While he was never called upon for such extensive QB action again, Beau’s ability to step in and make the offense function played a key role in notching a tough road win at Wisconsin, keeping their College Football Playoff hopes strongly intact.
Currently rocking the No. 98 jersey is Matthew Parker, a true freshman kicker from York, PA.
Only 98 days until Penn State Football!