Penn State's 2025 Recruiting Class Showing Promise After Three Games

Strategic Insights -

Penn State's James Franklin is giving glowing reviews to several members of the 2025 recruiting class, particularly defensive end Yvan Kemajou, who has played in all three games so far. Kemajou impressed with a tackle for loss while playing 55 snaps in Week 1. However, Franklin is hesitant to commit to a "green light" for Kemajou, suggesting that the depth at defensive end is better than expected. The staff's confidence in Kemajou is rooted in his physical abilities, intelligence, and trustworthiness.

Key Takeaways:

  • Defensive end Yvan Kemajou has played in all three games so far, impressing with a tackle for loss and 55 snaps of action.
  • Kemajou's confidence from the coaching staff is based on his physical abilities, intelligence, and trustworthiness.
  • Franklin is hesitant to commit to a "green light" for Kemajou, indicating that the depth at defensive end is better than expected.
  • Other freshmen in the yellow-light category, such as linebacker Alex Tatsch, cornerback Jahmir Joseph, and defensive tackle Randy Adirika, have shown promise in limited action.
  • Tatsch made three tackles, including one for loss, in his season debut against Villanova, and defensive coordinator Jim Knowles sees him as a key rotational piece down the road.
  • Joseph has displayed a big body and physical nature, making him an intriguing option for playing time.
  • Defensive tackle Randy Adirika has played in two games and has generated some buzz from the staff.
  • On offense, wide receiver Koby Howard has yet to receive a catch in two games, but Franklin has confidence in him and sees him as a potential contributor.
  • No other freshman on the offense has received a snap so far, according to PFF.

Statistics:

  • 246 snaps for defensive end Yvan Kemajou (Week 1 - 55 snaps, Week 2 - 61 snaps, Week 3 - 130 snaps)
  • 3 tackles, including 1 for loss, for linebacker Alex Tatsch in his season debut against Villanova
  • 2 games for cornerback Jahmir Joseph, displaying a big body and physical nature
  • 2 games for defensive tackle Randy Adirika, generating some buzz from the staff
  • 2 games for wide receiver Koby Howard, yet to receive a catch

Sources:

  • PennLive: "Penn State football: First-year players in the mix, but who could play immediately?"
  • TribLIVE: "Penn State's young defensive ends getting acclimated to starting role"