They couldn't hide the truth this time.

The new light and life on the Nittany Lions basketball team, freshmen guards Ben Luber and Marlon Smith, finally revealed that they are, in fact -- still freshmen.

Not that the pair of young starters played much worse than any of the other Nittany Lions on Saturday in the 64-37 loss to Pittsburgh. Nor were their loads lightened by the staunch Panthers defense, anchored by senior shooting guard Julius Page. Luber and Smith weren't supposed to make the highlight reel in their first time out against nationally ranked opponent.

But what should have been expected of the newcomers?

More than five total points and a 13 percent combined shooting average.

"We didn't come out and play strong," Luber said after the game. "We need to be more confident when we are on the road."

The Lions obviously have a lack of depth in the backcourt, with sophomore Brandon Cameron as the only other guard garnering noteworthy playing time. Consequently, Penn State men's basketball coach Ed DeChellis has charged Luber and Smith with the responsibility of running the offense. But if their shots aren't falling, it's the duty of those guards to create opportunities for the rest of their team.

Like Luber said, though, there was a lack of confidence. And that void led to the lack of team play. In 36 minutes on the court, the point guard only dished out one assist. Smith didn't fare much better, adding only two.

"We were so impatient," DeChellis said. "We took so many poor shots. It was very disappointing. We didn't do anything we were supposed to."

Up until Saturday, the starting guards had done what they were supposed to. Luber handled the ball and called out the plays. Smith waited for his number to be called and knocked down open jumpers.

But against Pitt's fast zone defense, the pair of freshmen seemed to lose sight of what had worked for them in the prior games. Several times Luber brought the ball across half-court and penetrated the zone, only to lose possession on an ill-advised pass or unnecessary circus shot. Smith tried to continue his self-assured long-range shooting, but forced too many shots with a hand in his face. Together, they were credited with nine turnovers.

"You are never as good as you think you are and never as bad as you think you are," DeChellis said. "That's how we played tonight. We are a young ball team."

Against Pitt, that youth ultimately came to the front.