James Franklin discusses potentially getting pair of Penn State LBs on field at same time, plans for future
James Franklin knows he has a talented Nittany Lions defense that has serious depth and talent. On Wednesday, he has asked about playing both redshirt sophomore Curtis Jacobs and true freshman Abdul Carter simultaneously.
Franklin shut down the possibility by stating Jacobs isn’t a mike linebacker but opened the possibility that Carter could one day. Carter currently backs up Jacobs at the weakside linebacker.
On getting Abdul Carter and Curtis Jacobs on the field at the same time as much as possible “that’s easier said than done bc Curt’s not a Mike linebacker, Abdul might be one day”
— Audrey Snyder (@audsnyder4) October 19, 2022
In 6 games this season, Jacobs has accounted for 22 total tackles, 12 solo tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 1 interception, and 2 fumble recoveries. Carter has accounted for 23 total tackles, 17 solo tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 2 pass breakups, and 1 forced fumble in his six games as a true freshman.
Carter’s potential and early impact as a freshman has been one of the season’s biggest bright spots for Penn State’s defense.
The Nittany Lions gear up for Minnesota next after the 41-17 loss to Michigan on Saturday. That game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC.