A look at Penn State that doesn't mention Joe Paterno's age, OK maybe a little

There are few college football stories in recent years that are as tired as those questioning JoePa's age. I'm merely mentioning it to say I don't want to talk about if further than this:

Penn State has won 29 games (more than Michigan) the last three years, and were a pass away from playing for a BCS title as recently as 2005.

So what about the '08 Lions? There is an open competition at quarterback and stud recruit Stephfon Green will battle incumbent Evan Royster for the most carries at RB. The receiving corps and offensive line meanwhile are brimming with experience.

On defense, expected team leader and LB Sean Lee is out for the year after injuring himself making a cut in spring practice. This after losing Bednarik Award-winning LB Dan Connor. The secondary should be a huge strength.

Big Ten Network (Ch. 220 on DirectTV) is carrying the Penn State spring game at 11 Eastern tonight. It's also available on the network's Web site. Here's an AP rundown of the game.

The schedule could have been kinder for the Lions. Their first six weeks in the Big 10 PSU goes vs. Illinois, at Purdue, at Wisconsin, vs. Michigan, at Ohio State and at Iowa. That's going to make another 9-win year tough, but if they fall to a lower tier bowl they should dominate their opponent.

Early estimated results: 7-5

Local recruiting note:
Looking to fall 2009, Penn State is one of the schools that have offered Dunbar senior RB Tavon Austin a scholarship. Just a year ago, some local observers were debating whether the 5'9 back could be a D-I recruit, but with offers from programs like West Virginia, Maryland and early chaser B.C., in addition to PSU, I have no doubts. Watch some of these YouTube videos, the kid has moves.

--Nate