Penn State quarterback Rocco Becht continues to collect national recognition ahead of the 2026 season.
The redshirt senior was named Wednesday to the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Watch List, an honor presented annually to the nation’s top upperclassman quarterback. The award recognizes excellence on the field while also emphasizing leadership, character and academic achievement.
Becht has quickly become one of the most decorated quarterbacks entering the season.
Earlier this month, he was named to the Maxwell Award watchlist, adding the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award to an already impressive preseason resume.
The former Iowa State standout arrives in Happy Valley after one of the most productive careers in Cyclones history. Over 39 career starts, Becht led Iowa State to 26 victories and engineered seven game-winning drives while rewriting the school’s record book.
Add Nittany Sports Now as a preferred source in Google! Click here to add us.He finished his Iowa State career ranked first in consecutive games with a touchdown pass (22), second in passing touchdowns (64), second in 300-yard passing games (six) and third in both passing yards (9,274) and total offense (9,773). His dual-threat ability also showed with 19 career rushing touchdowns.
Last season, Becht completed 205 of 339 passes for 2,584 yards and 16 touchdowns while adding eight rushing scores. He also earned Allstate AFCA Good Works Team nomination honors and has twice been named CSC Academic All-District.
The Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, now celebrating its 40th year, will announce semifinalists and finalists throughout the season before crowning its winner during the Dec. 9 awards ceremony.
No. 17 (Coaches) / No. 18 (AP) Penn State will open the Matt Campbell era on September 5 against Marshall at 3:30 PM (Eastern) from Beaver Stadium.
