Nittany Network is pleased to unveil a new site feature that allows readers to get inside with recruits that have already committed to Penn State.
Today, we have Harrison City (Pa.) Penn-Trafford offensive lineman Luke Graham, who become commit No. 5 in the class of 2010 back in May.
My decision came down to…
“It was between Penn State, Stanford, Virginia and Maryland.”
I picked Penn State because…
“It’s close to home. It’s the program I always wanted to be involved in.”
What I am most looking forward to at Penn State…
“Definitely playing football and being a part of a great program.”
I am looking forward to playing against…
“Definitely Ohio State. Just the rivalry of the game. The atmosphere will be awesome.”
The biggest adjustment I’ll have to make in college is…
“Moving from tackle to guard. But that’s a position I’m familiar with. It shouldn’t be too hard.”
My biggest sports thrill has been…
“That’s a tough one. I can’t answer that one.”
My favorite athletes are…
“Lance Armstrong. Lance is pretty much No. 1.”
Other than football my favorite sport is…
“I like to golf. I’m not very good at it, but its fun. It’s a good stress reliever.”
My favorite sports teams are…
“The Steelers. And let’s go with the Penguins, other than Penn State.”
Away from football I like to…
“Lift, and read a little. And I like to hang out with my friends and my girlfriend.”
On my iPod or CD player right now I have…
“I like to listen to Fire Flies by Owl City.”
My favorite TV shows are…
“SportsCenter and I like NCIS.”
My favorite movies are…
“I like ‘Gladiator’ and ‘Braveheart.’ Those are definitely my top two.”
My favorite foods are…
“I like a good home cooked spaghetti and meatballs with garlic toast.”
I plan to major in…
“Business Management or Psychology.”
After college and my football career is over, I see myself working as…
“That’s a tough one. I’d like to be a coach or own my own business.”
ESPN Scouts Inc.’s Evaluation of Graham
Graham has the height for the tackle position but presently lacks the weight we like to see at the major level of competition. However his frame should allow for additional bulk in the next couple of years making guard a good possibility as well. Plays defensive end from both a two and three point stance but lacks good initial quickness off the ball.
A little too high and must improve his ability to shed blockers; appears to be a solid tackler. Plays from a two point stance showing some lower body stiffness; not quick or explosive coming out of his stance.
His pad level is too high and must improve his overall playing strength both as a run and pass blocker. Offensive guard may be in his future; may have problems with quick 1st and 2nd level defenders early on in his career.
In pass protection his ability to quick set will need work along with his foot work. We would like to see improved upper body strength and explosion as it relates to punch, location and extension. His arm length looks good.
This player flashes the willingness to finish blocks but needs to become a more dominant guy as he moves towards the next level of competition.
Graham will not be an early starter, rather one who is a developmental player needing time and a red shirt year to improve his physical stature and playing tools.
Meet Luke Graham
