Eventually, Trace McSorley made his triumphant return from an apparent right knee injury, ripping off a 51-yard touchdown run and guiding the Nittany Lions to their 30-24 win over Iowa. But for two series, it was Tommy Time.
Tommy Stevens — Penn State’s “Lion” and beloved backup quarterback — entered the game with 10:30 to go in the second quarter to loud cheers from the Beaver Stadium student section, a moment worth basking in.
For the better part of three seasons, Stevens sat behind the program’s most prolific passer, biding his time. He made spot appearances as a running back or receiver, producing splash plays here and there.