Penn State's Blue-White practice featured new head coach Matt Campbell's innovative scrimmage format, showcasing the team's large transfer class and young defensive talent. Key players included QB Rocco Becht and standout defenders Daryus Dixson and Josiah Zayas.
Key points
Matt Campbell introduced a new scrimmage format for the Blue-White practice.
Rocco Becht showcased potential during 7-on-7 drills.
Daryus Dixson and Josiah Zayas excelled in defensive roles.
Zayas returned an interception for a touchdown.
The transfer class adds depth to the Nittany Lions' roster.
Penn State Nittany LionsRocco BechtDaryus DixsonJosiah Zayas
Over the weekend, Penn State's Blue-White game received a different look. Instead of a full on scrimmage, new head coach Matt Campbell broke up the afternoon into several scrimmages that saw different players go through 7-on-7 drills and 11-on-11s for the first time in front of the fanbase. This meant fans were introduced to one of Penn State's largest transfer classes in years, including star QB Rocco Becht. Despite the fact that Becht only competed in 7-on-7s, fans still got a glimpse of his potential, as well as the potential of a young and scrappy defense and an underrated running back room. Here are some key observations from the practice.
Young defensive prospects look sharp
Apr 25, 2026; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions cornerback Daryus Dixson (5) defends wide receiver Koby Howard (6) during the Penn State Blue-White Spring game at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images
Apr 25, 2026; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions cornerback Daryus Dixson (5) defends wide receiver Koby Howard (6) during the Penn State Blue-White Spring game at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images
One area of focus for the weekend was how Penn State would choose to blend in their young returning talent with the large haul of transfers on the defensive side of the ball. The answer may be more interesting than you think after what transpired Saturday. Two defensive prospects in particular shined on the day: sophomore corner Daryus Dixson and freshman safety Josiah Zayas. Dixson tormented presumed QB2 Connor Barry. Both players had interceptions, with Zayas returning his for a touchdown. While both figure to get limited snaps in what should be an elite secondary, the fact that the can rely on this amount of depth could be critical throughout the year.
Q&A
What changes did head coach Matt Campbell make to the Blue-White practice format?
Matt Campbell introduced several scrimmages instead of a full scrimmage, allowing players to participate in 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills.
Who are the standout players from Penn State's Blue-White practice?
Standout players included QB Rocco Becht, cornerback Daryus Dixson, and safety Josiah Zayas, with both Dixson and Zayas making interceptions.
How did the young defensive prospects perform during the practice?
Young defensive prospects Daryus Dixson and Josiah Zayas performed well, with Zayas returning an interception for a touchdown.
What significance does Penn State's large transfer class have for the team?
The large transfer class provides depth and potential for the Nittany Lions, particularly on the defensive side, which could be crucial for the upcoming season.
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Apr 25, 2026; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions running back James Peoples (23) runs with the ball during the Penn State Blue-White Spring game at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images
Apr 25, 2026; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions running back James Peoples (23) runs with the ball during the Penn State Blue-White Spring game at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images
One of the positions that many Penn State fans were curious about headed into this practice was the running back position. While many people expected Carson Hansen to emerge as the clear RB1, others believed that Ohio State transfer James Peoples might have something to say about it. He definitely proved himself this weekend, displaying elite vision and burst and most impressively, scoring two touchdowns in 11-on-11 drills. While Hansen had his moments and played first team reps, look for Peoples to continue his ascendance and potentially get more reps come the start of the season.
First look at Rocco Becht
Apr 25, 2026; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Rocco Becht (3) looks to throw a pass on the run during the Penn State Blue-White Spring game at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images
Apr 25, 2026; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Rocco Becht (3) looks to throw a pass on the run during the Penn State Blue-White Spring game at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images
Many Penn State fans were curious to see how Rocco Bect would look most of all, or even if they would get to see him at all this weekend. It turns out Becht looks just fine. While he only played in 7-on-7 drills, he looked much sharper than one would have expected a QB with injury problems to play. One positive development emerged in his connection with Penn State's potential breakout star in wide receiver Koby Howard. One of the holdovers at the position from last year, Howard emerged as a potential breakout candidate and WR1 option for this year. While both Chase Sowell and Brett Eskildsen sat out due to injuries, Howard got the bulk of the WR1 plays and displayed a strong rapport with his new QB. Chances are by the start of the season, it will be Howard that Becht can rely upon the most.
Legacy player making plays
Penn State linebacker LaVar Arrington II during the Blue-White game at Beaver Stadium on Saturday, April 26, 2025, in State College. The White team defeated the Blue team, 10-8.
Penn State linebacker LaVar Arrington II during the Blue-White game at Beaver Stadium on Saturday, April 26, 2025, in State College. The White team defeated the Blue team, 10-8.
While this observation is mainly down to a legacy player making a big play, it is important to note that LaVar Arrington II may not figure into Penn State's rotation this year. After being converted from linebacker to defensive end, Arrington was looking to impress in an already loaded position group for the Blue and White. He certainly displayed some elite moves, especially going up against redshirt freshman OT Owen Aliciene. While Arrington will have to wait his turn, he is already proving his worth to this team.
Barry struggles in backup role
Apr 25, 2026; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Connor Barry (17) lines up in the backfield during the Penn State Blue-White Spring game at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images
Apr 25, 2026; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Connor Barry (17) lines up in the backfield during the Penn State Blue-White Spring game at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images
While it was a solid day for Rocco Becht, the day did not go quite as well for Connor Barry. Potentially battling for his place as QB2, he looked shaky at times, displaying inaccuracy and sailing passes, one of which was picked off by Daryus Dixson. While Alex Manske was sidelined and could not show off his capabilities, Barry will be disappointed in himself for not taking advantage. He was not the only QB who struggled, as freshman Peyton Falzone also threw a pick and Kase Evans could not put any TDs on the board either. While the Nittany Lions' QB room is certainly deep, it may not be as good as we initially thought.
