Penn State Football Without Key Personnel Against West Virginia

Penn State football will be missing two defensive linemen and a cornerback for Saturday’s season opener against West Virginia, according to the team’s availability report.

Defensive end Amin Vanover, defensive tackle Coziah Izzard, and cornerback Daequan Hardy are listed as out for Saturday’s contest, while wide receiver Omari Evans is listed as questionable. The availability report does not list reasons for statuses.

Vanover appeared in every game for the Nittany Lions last year, recording 16 tackles, two quarterback hurries, and three pass breakups. Vanover was expected to be a regular presence in the defensive line’s rotation.

Izzard, a potential starter, appeared in nine games a season ago where he made ten tackles, including four tackles for loss, two sacks, and a quarterback hurry.

Hardy, another potential starter, was touted to help fill the absence left by departed cornerback Joey Porter Jr. Last season, Hardy appeared in every game, racking up 13 tackles, a forced fumble, an interception, and four pass breakups.

On the offensive side of the ball, Evans is listed as questionable for Saturday’s matchup. Evans had a limited role on the offense last season, catching five passes for 55 yards and one touchdown. After a standout Blue-White Game in April, Evans was touted to have a bigger role in the offense this season.