Penn State teammates thrilled with the return of CB Daequan Hardy

The Penn State football team took a major step yesterday. As the Nittany Lions found a way to get a big-time conference win. Not only did this cross the first road game of the season, but it also picked up the first Big Ten win of the year. One of the strengths headed into the season was the Penn State defense. Through the first two games, many fans had a few questions about the defense. But after yesterday, those questions were put to rest. A big part of that was getting players back after missing the first two games. One of those players played a key role yesterday, cornerback Daequan Hardy.

Penn State teammates thrilled with the return of cornerback Daequan Hardy

The Penn State defense caused 5 turnovers, including 4 interceptions. Nittany Lions who secured an interception yesterday include Abdul Carter, Cam Miller, Johnny Dixon, and Daequan Hardy. The entire defense was making it extremely difficult for Illinois QB Luke Altmyer. After the game, we caught up with Johnny Dixon, who was thrilled to have Daequan Hardy back after missing the first two games of 2023 with an injury.

Dixon was asked how important was it to have Hardy back on the field. Dixon said, “Very important, we missed him. You see what it’s like when we have him back.”

With Hardy out of the lineup the first two games, Penn State was forced to have Cam Miller step into the lineup and he played well. But that moved Dixon to the nickel position. It’s clear that Dixon was very happy to have No. 25 back on the field.

Daequan Hardy speaks on his return

After the game, we also caught up with Penn State football CB Daequan Hardy. The joy in his voice was obvious. Although he didn’t comment on why he missed the first two games. He wanted to leave the past in the past.

Hardy said, “Coach Manny always talks about just creating turnovers you know, trying to keep the crowd out of the game. I feel as if we did a great job of that today. A lot of guys got their hands on the football and it was a great win.”