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Why this key Penn State freshman is poised to ‘make a move’ up the depth chart

UNIVERSITY PARK

Two years ago, a burgeoning back took the reins of Penn State’s offense, sprinting toward the national spotlight and establishing himself as one of the country’s best rushers. All the while, there was a five-star true freshman waiting in the wings, chipping in here and there but mostly waiting his turn.

Sound familiar? It does to James Franklin.

Penn State’s 2018 running back situation looks a lot like 2016. When Saquon Barkley guided the Nittany Lions to a Big Ten title, Miles Sanders spelled the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year. Now, it’s Sanders’ show, and Ricky Slade is guest starring.