STATE COLLEGE — The first pass of the second half was incomplete deep into double coverage. The second pass was off the mark and deflected for an interception.

But for Ethan Grunkemeyer, they were a turning point in his early college career.

Grunkemeyer’s first 10 quarters as Penn State’s starting quarterback — against three of the country’s best defenses in Iowa, Ohio State and Indiana — were comprised almost entirely of short, safe passes.

The last two quarters against the Hoosiers saw him taking some shots. And just like that, the Nittany Lions found some much-needed life on offense behind the redshirt freshman, who took over when an ankle injury ended Drew Allar’s season.

Grunkemeyer finished 22-for-31 for 219 yards, a touchdown and the one pick against the Hoosiers, leading Penn S

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