Who will hold the job of holder for Penn State football in 2022?
No Penn State football unit has more starting spots to fill than the special teams. First-year coordinator Stacy Collins must replace last year’s first-team punt returner, kickoff specialist, field goal kicker, both punt team gunners, and holder. And, that’s not to mention anyone apart of the coverage units or offensive line for kicks that left.
In other words, many big shoes must be filled. And the one that hasn’t been focused on yet this offseason by people outside of the program is the holder job.
There is no question that it is one of the roles on the team where it’s better to be anonymous than not. Be honest: Did you know Rafael Checa was the team’s holder last season prior to the failed fake field goal at Michigan that led to his number being shown on replay numerous times? Unless you’re related to him, a special teams lover, or a super keen observer, the answer is probably not. That’s because he usually did his job well. But, he was honored on Senior Day last year and has now moved on.
So, who will the holder be this fall?
Two names stand out early for Penn State
Mitch Groh chuckled when he was recently asked by a reporter how exactly a holder competition works. Most of us, whether we played the game or not, can envision how position battles work at most spots. But holder, which seems like an easy job but certainly is not, does not feel as clear cut as saying simply, for example, “the winner will be whoever catches and spins the ball best.”
So, how does it work?
“It’s up to the kickers’ preference,” Groh said. “To be honest, whatever they prefer. If they prefer you, then you got the job. And if not, then not so much.
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“You just do what they ask, do what they like, and put it down how they want it.”
Groh seems to be competing against fellow Penn State punt competition competitor Barney Amor for the holder job. Of course, others could end up in the mix as well by fall camp. Whoever wins the first-team spot will have to be adept at being able to hold for either a left-footed kicker or a right-footed kicker. Current placement kick candidates Sander Sahaydak and Jake Pinegar are the former and latter, respectively.
“There are small things like timing, and basically, just real minute things that make a big difference in the kicking world,” Groh said. He added hitting the same spot consistently is a must-do, as well.
All told, Penn State will find its answer at holder. But, it may have to wait until it picks a kicker first. Either way, you’ll see the number of the player who wins the battle on the field. Ultimately, however, not knowing who it is on game day without a program will probably be best for all.
