New Penn State QB Ethan Grunkemeyer could be a 'bolt of energy'

UNIVERSITY PARK — The most recent time Penn State traveled to Iowa’s Kinnick Stadium, in 2021, a Nittany Lions backup quarterback took center stage.

Ta’Quan Roberson relieved an injured Sean Clifford midway through the game and couldn’t hold onto an early lead, falling 23-20 in a battle of top-four opponents. The Kinnick crowd played a clear factor as the offense struggled to move the ball and committed a plethora of false starts.

The stakes are much different this time around. But there’s a hint of deja vu as Ethan Grunkemeyer has a chance to make his first imprint at Penn State this weekend in Iowa City for a nighttime kickoff.

He’ll just have to do so under the guidance of interim coach Terry Smith, while an emotionally charged team tries to move past the firing of James Franklin and the loss of senior starting QB Drew Allar to a broken ankle.

Smith said “Grunk” has looked really good in practice so far this week, and the two have connected often in meetings. And Smith — despite his background as cornerbacks coach — has hung around the offense often to help the redshirt freshman get more comfortable.

“He’s excited for the opportunity,” Smith said. “We sat down and met yesterday. We had a really good conversation. And, fortunately or unfortunately, he and I have been thrust into a role that neither one of us saw coming for this week.”

Those conversations have meant a lot to Grunkemeyer this week as the duo, as well as offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki, try to make a plan that fits the new-look Nittany Lions.

“(We) really have to lean on each other,” said Grunkemeyer, speaking for the first time since taking over as the starter. “He pulled me into his office and was just being honest with me, and he wanted that same feedback from me, just to be honest with him about what I’m seeing. I think having that middle ground has been super, super important for both of us. Just to be on the same page and be connected.”

Though Allar has been away from the team this week and underwent successful surgery, Grunkemeyer said he’s texted with his predecessor every day. He’s checked in on Allar’s well-being, and Allar has been a key resource in preparing for Iowa.

“He’s played in a lot of big games on the road, so he’s a great mentor in that aspect,” Grunkemeyer said.

Penn State blared music at practice this week to prepare Grunkemeyer, who has played in just five games in his career. Smith has been pleased with his signal caller’s ability to make checks at the line of scrimmage thus far.

Grunkemeyer said Allar’s advice was to get close to the line, move quickly and speak from the chest on the field.

Additionally, Grunkemeyer has made it a point to establish himself as a leader among a veteran Penn State team. He said he takes pride in connecting with players in each position group off the field.

“Hearing your voice in the locker room, that translates onto the field,” Grunkemeyer said. “(If) guys respect you in the locker room, that’s huge coming out here, making sure your voice is heard.”

Defensive leaders have had the chance to see Grunkemeyer more than most early in his career, thanks to his time leading the scout team offense. Defensive tackle and captain Zane Durant said Grunkemeyer can make “all the throws” and simply has to take advantage of his “time to shine.”

“There are certain things that you just gotta learn through experience,” Durant said. “Him being the first-time starter, he’s gonna go through a lot of things. But it’s on him to weather that storm. I think he’s prepared.”

Penn State, 3-3 and in a tumultuous state, could use a boost this weekend. Perhaps Grunkemeyer can provide it, even though it won’t come easily.

“I’m kind of excited to see him. I think he’s going to give us a bolt of energy,” Smith said. “I’m looking forward to it.”