The story of Drew Allar's underperformance at Penn State is a fascinating one, and it's a tale that raises important questions about the role of coaches, players, and the system itself. Allar, a highly touted recruit, was expected to be the savior of Penn State's football program, but his time at the university was marked by inconsistency and underwhelming performances against top-tier opponents.
One of the key issues that emerged was Allar's footwork and fundamental skills as a quarterback. This is a critical aspect of the position, and it's concerning that Allar struggled with such a basic element of the game. It's easy to point fingers at the coaches, particularly James Franklin, for not addressing this issue adequately. After all, it's their job to develop and refine the skills of their players.
However, it's also important to consider the player's role in this narrative. Allar had his moments of success, throwing for over 7,000 yards and 60 touchdowns during his time at Penn State. But these statistics don't tell the whole story. The fact that he struggled against elite competition, particularly in big games, is a significant concern. The losses to Ohio State, Oregon, Michigan, and Notre Dame were all pivotal moments that showcased Allar's limitations.
The blame game is a complex one. While Franklin and his offensive coordinators bear some responsibility for not maximizing Allar's potential, it's also true that Allar didn't play to the best of his abilities in these crucial games. The interceptions, missed opportunities, and overall inconsistent performance cannot be solely attributed to the coaches. Allar had the talent and the tools, but he didn't deliver when it mattered most.
The comparison to Trace McSorley, another Franklin-coached quarterback, is an interesting one. McSorley, who played under Franklin, had a more successful run against top-tier opponents. This suggests that perhaps the system or the coaching approach played a significant role in Allar's underperformance. It's a reminder that coaching is not just about individual talent but also about creating an environment that fosters success.
In my opinion, the story of Drew Allar is a cautionary tale for both players and coaches. It highlights the importance of addressing fundamental issues and the need for a holistic approach to development. While coaches have a responsibility to guide and mentor their players, players themselves must also take ownership of their performance. The NFL draft selection by the Steelers is a new chapter in Allar's career, and it remains to be seen whether he can overcome his limitations and prove his worth at the professional level.
