Former WPIAL Star Makes Statement For Penn State
PITTSBURGH (93-7 The Fan) -- A year after spending time on special teams, Penn State's Cole Chiappialle showcased some other skills Saturday.
The former Blackhawk High School running back rushed for 63 yards and two touchdowns in the Nittany Lions' spring game. Chiappialle, a walk-on sophomore, is looking to prove his worth to new head coach James Franklin.
"I haven't really ran the ball in over a year now," Chiappialle said after leading the Blue to a 37-0 victory over the White in front of 72,000 fans. "I'm really excited. I just wanted to run the ball, show [the coaching staff] what I got today and do my best."
With more experienced running backs like Bill Belton, Zach Zwinak and Akeel Lynch in front of him, Chiappialle likely will again make his mark on special teams in 2014. Franklin expects Chiappialle to do well.
"[Chiappialle's] got great vision. He's got great toughness and balance," Franklin said. "I think there's a role for him in this football program. He needs to be a huge contributor on special teams."
Penn State opens its season Aug. 30 at Croke Park Stadium in Ireland against defending Fiesta Bowl champion UCF.