It’s no exaggeration when your nickname is “Linebacker U” that Penn State has a rich linebacker history.
From Jack Ham to Micah Parsons, plenty of PSU linebackers have become star linebackers in the Big Ten.
Could the next one be a key holdover from Penn State’s 2025 roster?
New coach Matt Campbell brought linebackers Caleb Bacon, Carl Brezina, and Kooper Ebel with him to State College from Iowa State, but a holdover from last year’s Penn State team could be next in line.
Alex Tatsch received significant playing time during Penn State’s final five conference games as a true freshman. Campbell is confident that Tatsch is going to take a big step up.
“I think Tatsch has got a chance to be one of the great linebackers of all time here,” Campbell said last Wednesday. “I love his video. I love what he’s about.”
In six total games, burning his redshirt, Tatsch made 14 tackles, one tackle for loss and one pass defended at middle linebacker.
The 6-foot-2, 230-pound defender from Latrobe High School played a key role in replacing Tony Rojas, who suffered a season-ending injury in practice before Penn State’s loss to UCLA.
Add Nittany Sports Now as a preferred source in Google! Click here to add us.A former four-star prospect and All-State selection, Tatash announced his return to Penn State New Year’s Day with a picture of him praying in the end zone.
It’s high praise for the young linebacker, especially given the talent in the position room.
Campbell hired Cincinnati defensive coordinator Tyson Veidt as PSU’s linebackers coach. Veidt spent two years in the DC role before joining the Nittany Lions this offseason.
Matt Campbell Tabs Another Familiar Face At Linebacker Coach
He also retained beloved linebackers coach and Penn State letterman Dan Connor on his staff.
Penn State will hold a Blue-White game this spring at Beaver Stadium, but the format, date, and time for the annual team scrimmage have yet to be finalized.
