No one can argue the phenomenal job Head Coach Bill O'Brien did when he took over the Penn State football program after the meltdown that had earlier ensued.  O' Brien had his team labeled as "over-achievers" last year by the media and fans.  Now, after going 8-4 and returning 14 starters they are excited and exuberating confidence about the upcoming season.  There is, however, one piece missing from the puzzle and it's the most important piece of them all: a quarterback.  In reality, O'Brien has two pieces for one slot.  After losing three year starter and senior Matt McGloin the Nittnay Lions went out and got California JUCO transfer Tyler Ferguson and five star recruit Christian Hackenberg.  But, although on paper and hearing O' Brien stress the importance of competition at the position, I'm here to tell you why this quarterback battle won't even close.   

5.  Credentials

Hackenberg comes from Fork Union Military Academy high school where he was selected to the first team All-State in Virginia.  He was a five-star recruit by scouts and the number one rated quarterback prospect in the 2013 class.  He also was invited to the Under Armor All-American game where he showed off his prototypical size (6-4 215lbs.), arm strength, and athleticism.

4.  Work Ethic

Coach O'Brien has praised Hackenberg's work ethic since his time he shared with him in the spring practices claiming he had digested the Nittnay Lion's play book well and although he has a lot to learn, he was making the transition with ease.  O'Brien also was encouraged at his ability to improve every day during practices saying "Christian has come in here and really done a nice job, for a true freshman to come in here and do some of the things he's done is really good to see.  He's attentive."  He is also very attentive off the field getting the coaches nod of approval in quarterback meetings noting that he has been vocal and was asking great questions.  

3.  Scheme

One of the key factors in Hackenberg transitioning so well to the Penn State playbook is because of his background in a pro-style attack.  He ran a similar scheme and will be far more comfortable in O'Brien's offense right away than Ferguson.  Although Ferguson has a slight edge on him when it comes to playing time and experience, Hackenberg's knowledge and familiarity with the offense will outweigh Ferguson by this fall. 

2.  Talent

There is a reason Hackenberg was the number one rated quarterback and a five-star recruit.  The kid is as talented as they come already showing the makings of a future All-American in practices.  Coaches already have gone on record saying he has all the ability and it won't take long for him to be the clear cut favorite.  On top of his size he looks natural in the pocket and has shown fluid athleticism when moving around.   

1.  Commitment

During the Sandusky scandal and the horrible image Penn State later received their football program specifically took a huge hit.  Recruits were dropping left and right, star players were transferring, and the NCAA  gave out  a stern punishment by banning them from future bowl games and reducing the number of recruits they were allowed.  It seemed the Nittnay Lions football team would be doomed for years to come.  But during it all, Christian Hackenberg stayed true to his word after giving  Bill O'Brien his commitment.  Even as the premier quarterback recruit of the class of 2013, he stuck with Penn State through NCAA sanctions despite holding offers from schools like Florida and Alabama.  Although he ultimately will play and start because of his size, talent, and ability; Coach O'Brien holds a deeper relationship with Hackenberg because of commitment and faith for his team under troubling times and disturbing circumstances and will show his appreciation back by naming him the starter opening week.