The Battle for the Blind Side
Penn State kicked off its 2026 training camp this week with a roster that feels largely set, the starting lineup already taking shape after a full slate of winter workouts and spring drills.
The focus now is on the nuances that will determine how the offense functions, especially the protection of quarterback Drew Becht, who is still easing his way back from a series of injuries sustained last season at Iowa State.
At the heart of that conversation is the left‑tackle spot, a position the coaching staff has labeled the most pivotal for the team’s overall success.
Three players are vying for that role: redshirt freshman Malachi Goodman, redshirt sophomore Garrett Sexton, and redshirt freshman Owen Aliciene, each bringing a different profile to the competition.
Goodman, a former five‑star recruit who led most of last spring’s drills at the position, is currently listed atop the depth chart, praised for his lateral agility, long arms and natural talent by head coach Matt Campbell.
Sexton, who saw action in all 13 games a year ago and has added roughly 20 pounds since spring, brings game experience and versatility, having lined up at right tackle during those same drills, a fact highlighted by right‑tackle Anthony Donkoh.
Aliciene, also a redshirt freshman from Connecticut, appeared in 22 snaps during the season opener against Nevada and is noted for his physical style and maturity beyond his years.
While Campbell has placed Goodman first on the depth chart, he has repeatedly stressed that the competition remains open, with Sexton and Aliciene pushing for the starting role.
The Nittany Lions open the 2026 season on September 5 at home against Marshall, a game that will give an early glimpse of how the left‑tackle battle has resolved.