Penn State’s Defensive End Room: No Talent Issue, But Is Experience a Concern?

The Penn State Nittany Lions have built a reputation as one of the premier defensive programs in college football. Under head coach James Franklin and defensive coordinator Manny Diaz, Penn State has consistently fielded one of the most dominant defenses in the nation. A key component of that success has been their defensive line, particularly the defensive ends, who have played a crucial role in getting after the quarterback and setting the tone for the rest of the defense.

As the 2024 season approaches, Penn State finds itself in an interesting situation at defensive end. While the team certainly does not lack talent at the position, questions remain about experience. With the departure of several key players from last season, including Chop Robinson and Adisa Isaac, the Nittany Lions will rely on younger, less experienced players to step up and fill significant roles.

Does Penn State have an issue at defensive end? In terms of raw ability, absolutely not. But when it comes to in-game experience and proven production at the highest level, there are legitimate concerns. Let’s take a deep dive into the current state of Penn State’s defensive ends, analyze the talent on the roster, and explore whether a lack of experience could become a problem in 2024.

Losing Proven Starters: A Big Void to Fill

Chop Robinson and Adisa Isaac were two of the best pass rushers in the Big Ten last season, and their departures leave a sizable hole in Penn State’s defense. Robinson, a potential first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, was a force off the edge, known for his elite burst, bend, and ability to disrupt quarterbacks. Though his stat sheet may not have been loaded with gaudy numbers, his impact on the game was undeniable—he consistently generated pressure and forced opposing offenses to adjust their game plans.

Isaac, on the other hand, provided steady production and leadership. He recorded 7.5 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss in 2023, making him one of the most productive defensive ends in the conference. His departure means that Penn State will not only need to replace a high-level player but also a veteran presence in the locker room.

Together, Robinson and Isaac combined for 13.5 sacks and over 100 total pressures last season. Finding players who can replicate that kind of production will be a significant challenge for the Nittany Lions.

Plenty of Talent in the Pipeline

Penn State has recruited extremely well at defensive end, and while the team lacks experienced veterans, it certainly does not lack elite prospects. The current group features a mix of former highly-rated recruits and young players who have shown flashes of potential in limited action.

Dani Dennis-Sutton: The Next Big Thing?

One of the most exciting players in Penn State’s defensive end room is Dani Dennis-Sutton. A former five-star recruit, Dennis-Sutton has all the tools to become a dominant pass rusher at the college level. At 6-foot-5 and 265 pounds, he possesses a rare combination of size, speed, and power.

Dennis-Sutton played a rotational role in 2023, recording 3.5 sacks and 6 tackles for loss. While those numbers don’t jump off the page, his impact was evident whenever he was on the field. He displayed the ability to set the edge in the run game and showed flashes of being a high-level pass rusher. With a full offseason to develop and a larger role in the defense, he has the potential to break out in 2024.

Zuriah Fisher and Amin Vanover: Veterans With Something to Prove

While Dennis-Sutton is the most talked-about player, Penn State also has two other defensive ends with game experience in Zuriah Fisher and Amin Vanover.

Fisher, a former linebacker who transitioned to defensive end, has battled injuries throughout his career. However, when healthy, he has shown the ability to contribute in pass-rushing situations. His versatility makes him an intriguing piece in Diaz’s defensive scheme.

Vanover, on the other hand, has been a steady presence in the defensive end rotation. He played in all 13 games last season and recorded 16 total tackles. While he hasn’t put up huge sack numbers, he has been reliable against the run and brings a level of physicality to the position.

The Young Guns: Who Will Step Up?

Beyond the more established players, Penn State has several young defensive ends who could push for playing time. Players like Jameial Lyons, Mason Robinson, and true freshman Liam Andrews are all intriguing prospects who could make an impact if given the opportunity.

Lyons, in particular, is a name to watch. The former four-star recruit has the athleticism and length to become a dynamic pass rusher. If he takes a step forward in his development, he could carve out a meaningful role in the rotation.

The Experience Factor: A Potential Issue?

While the talent in the defensive end room is undeniable, experience is a valid concern. Outside of Vanover and Fisher, none of the current defensive ends have played significant snaps in high-pressure situations.

Dennis-Sutton has the highest upside, but he has never been a full-time starter. Can he handle the responsibility of being the team’s primary pass rusher? Will younger players like Lyons and Robinson be ready to contribute in meaningful moments? These are questions that will only be answered once the season begins.

In college football, experience often plays a crucial role in determining a defense’s success. It’s one thing to have raw ability, but understanding how to read offensive linemen, react to different blocking schemes, and adjust to the speed of the game takes time.

Additionally, losing veterans like Robinson and Isaac means that Penn State will need new leaders to emerge. Who will step up in the locker room and set the tone for the defensive line? Leadership is just as important as physical ability, and finding the right voices to guide the younger players will be key.

How Manny Diaz’s Scheme Can Help

One factor that could mitigate Penn State’s experience issue at defensive end is the defensive scheme. Under Manny Diaz, the Nittany Lions have consistently ranked among the best defenses in the country, and a big reason for that is their aggressive style of play.

Diaz loves to bring pressure from different angles, utilizing blitz packages that keep opposing offenses on their heels. While Penn State may not have a proven star at defensive end entering 2024, the scheme could help manufacture pressure through creative play-calling.

Additionally, Penn State’s depth at defensive tackle—led by players like Zane Durant and Dvon Ellies—should help take some of the burden off the defensive ends. If the interior of the defensive line can collapse the pocket, it will make life easier for the edge rushers.

Final Verdict: Concerned or Confident?

Penn State fans should be confident in the talent at defensive end, but it’s fair to have some concerns about experience. The potential is sky-high, especially with players like Dani Dennis-Sutton, but potential doesn’t always translate into immediate production.

The 2024 season will be a proving ground for this group. If Dennis-Sutton takes the leap that many expect, and if players like Fisher, Vanover, and Lyons step up, Penn State’s defensive end unit could remain one of the best in the Big Ten. However, if inexperience leads to growing pains, it could be a weak spot that teams look to exploit.

Ultimately, the success of this group will come down to player development and coaching. James Franklin and Manny Diaz have done an excellent job in previous years of preparing their defensive players for the big stage. If they can do the same with this group, Penn State’s defense should once again be among the nation’s elite.

One thing is certain—there is no shortage of talent. Now, it’s just a matter of turning that talent into production.