Penn State Quarterback Competition Heats Up Under New Coach Matt Campbell

New Penn State head coach Matt Campbell is evaluating his quarterback options. The competition will define his first season in Happy Valley. Several players are in the mix for the starting job.

Campbell brings a specific philosophy from his time at Iowa State. He values grit and leadership over pure physical talent. This will guide his crucial decision.

Campbell’s Blueprint: Leadership Over Arm Strength

The new coach outlined his core requirements for the position. He told reporters that physical tools alone do not win games. What wins is toughness, character, and the ability to lead.

“The locker room always knows who the quarterback should be,” Campbell said. This belief will shape his evaluation of both current roster players and potential transfers. According to ESPN, developing quarterbacks was a point of pride for his Iowa State staff.

He cited the success of former Cyclones like Brock Purdy and Kyle Kempt. Both were lightly recruited but became program legends through development. Campbell sees finding that same fit as his primary task at Penn State.

Will A Familiar Face Transfer to Lead the Offense?

A major question is the status of Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht. Becht was Campbell’s starter for three seasons. He threw for 3,505 yards and 25 touchdowns in 2024.

According to ESPN, Becht recently had surgery on a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder. He is expected to make a full recovery. Campbell praised Becht’s toughness, noting he played through that injury.

The coach emphasized the need for a tight bond with his starter. “The head coach and the quarterback better be linked at the hip,” he stated. This strong existing relationship makes Becht a logical transfer portal target for Penn State.

Info at your fingertips

Who is the favorite to start at quarterback for Penn State?

No favorite has been named. The competition is open between returning player Ethan Grunkemeyer, potential transfer Rocco Becht, and others on the roster. Coach Campbell will evaluate all options based on leadership and fit.

Is Iowa State’s Rocco Becht injured?

Yes. According to ESPN, Becht had surgery for a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder after the regular season. His recovery is reportedly on track, and the injury is not expected to impact his throwing ability.

What does Matt Campbell look for in a quarterback?

Campbell prioritizes intangibles like grit, toughness, and locker-room leadership over pure speed or arm strength. He believes the team naturally identifies the right leader for the position.

Did Campbell recruit any current Penn State quarterbacks?

Yes. He recruited freshman Ethan Grunkemeyer when Grunkemeyer was in high school and visited Iowa State. Campbell also initially recruited 2026 commit Kase Evans to Iowa State before both chose Penn State.

Who was Matt Campbell’s most successful college quarterback?

Brock Purdy. Under Campbell at Iowa State, Purdy set numerous school records and led the Big 12 in passing. Purdy is now the starting quarterback for the NFL‘s San Francisco 49ers.