It looks like Payton Thorne will get his first start with the Spartans against Penn State.

According to multiple reporters on hand for the game, Lombardi is not dressed or participating in warmups for Saturday’s Week 8 showdown. Instead, Thorne is getting the practice reps and looks to be lined up for the start.

Also of note, true freshman Noah Kim made the trip with the Spartans, seemingly to serve as the backup should something happen to Thorne. Kim was a three-star recruit out of Virginia for the 2020 class.

In the loss to Ohio State, Lombardi suffered a scary incident when he was driven into the ground by a defender. His head hit the ground and he stayed down for a while before gingerly walking off the field and heading straight to the locker room. He did not return against the Buckeyes.

Thorne started hot after coming on in relief of Lombardi before finishing 16-for-25 passing for 147 yards and an interception. He scored a rushing touchdown against Ohio State but has yet to throw for a passing touchdown this season.

Hopefully Thorne and the Spartans play well with Lombardi sidelined.