February 7, 2013 at 12:17 PM
Four Nittany Lions invited to NFL Combine
The first step for a smooth transition to the next level has been checked off the list for four Penn State players who were invited to the NFL combine this morning.
Jordan Hill, Gerald Hodges, Michael Mauti and Matt Stankiewitch all received invitations to the combine, which will be held Feb. 20-26 in Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Each of the four graduating seniors will be given an opportunity to workout in front of NFL scouts, completing several physical tests in an effort to help improve their stock for the NFL Draft on April 25.
The three defenders receiving invites were each crucial in helping the Nittany Lions hold opponents to 19.1 points per game in their 8-4 2012 season.
Hill anchored the defensive line from the tackle position, finishing the season with 64 tackles, 8.5 sacks and an interception.
Hodges led the team in tackles with 109, teaming up with Mauti — who was close behind with 95 tackles, also adding three picks — to lead one of the most dominant linebacker corps in the Big Ten.
Meanwhile, center Stankiewitch led the protection for the Lions’ offense, which surrendered less than two sacks per game and scored 32.6 points per game in conference play.
Hill, Mauti and Stankiewitch were each First Team All Big Ten selections while Hodges was a Second Team selection.
Notable graduating seniors to not receive invitations to the combine were cornerback Stephon Morris, fullback Michael Zordich, quarterback Matt McGloin and offensive lineman Mike Farrell.