Penn State legend Jack Ham knows his linebackers, and he likes what he sees from some of the Nittany Lions’ young players. A former All-American and NFL Hall of Famer, Ham has watched a shifting group of Penn State linebackers show signs of progress from Week 1 against Temple to the Week 2 win over Buffalo. In particular, Jason Cabinda and Troy Reeder have caught his eye as potential program cornerstones.
Penn State coach James Franklin has needed players to fill key roles in the absence of injured Nyeem Wartman-White. Cabinda took on playcalling duties in the middle, while Reeder was up to the task in a start as the team’s “Will” linebacker against Buffalo. Ham said he saw better communication in the win over the Bulls and credited Cabinda in that role.
Ham joined Bob Flounders and Dustin Hockensmith on the Keystone Kickoff Show to talk about Penn State’s defense, quarterback Christian Hackenberg and more. Check out audio of the show in this post and be sure to check back in to KeystoneSportsNetwork.com for plenty more Penn State podcasts and analysis.