Joe Paterno entered his 43rd spring as Penn State's head coach with a big question mark at quarterback and even more questions about his contract. The Nittany Lions exited the spring with both questions unanswered.

Paterno's contract, which expires at the end of 2008, will not be renewed, and his coaching status will be determined on a season-by-season basis. He said his focus is on the '08 season, which could be a big one if a few things fall into place for Penn State.

Whether junior Daryll Clark or sophomore Pat Devlin emerges as the starter, the Nittany Lions will need consistent quarterback play to make an offense filled with talent but lacking a true superstar go. Tailbacks Evan Royster and Stephfon Green, wide receivers Deon Butler, Jordan Norwood and Derrick Williams and tight end Andrew Quarless should give Penn State balance. But the offense must be more consistent against elite opposition.

Despite a knee injury to its best player, linebacker Sean Lee, Penn State's defense looks poised for another solid season. Junior Maurice Evans leads a deep and developing defensive line, and senior Anthony Scirrotto leads a veteran secondary. Penn State has solid specialists and depth at most key positions.

The Nittany Lions have struggled on the road during the last few seasons, however, and face tough, primetime tasks at Ohio State and Wisconsin this season, as well as challenging home games against Illinois, Michigan and improving Michigan State. How well the team performs in 2008 should go a long way in determining Paterno's and Penn State's futures.

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