Twenty of the 25 incoming freshmen in James Franklin’s 2024 recruiting class at Penn State opted for early enrollment during the winter semester, allowing them to participate in Spring Football in Happy Valley. Corey Smith, Dejuan Lane, Donovan Harbour, Kenneth Woseley, and Tyseer Denmark, however, completed their high school education in the spring. On Sunday night, Denmark showcased his skills in his final pre-collegiate football event, the Big 33 Football Classic, where he excelled.
In this event, Pennsylvania’s top players face off against Maryland’s best high school talent. Denmark, a three-star wide receiver from Imhotep Charter, made a significant impact by catching four passes for 95 yards and three touchdowns, leading Pennsylvania to a 31-7 victory over Maryland and earning the game’s MVP title. His performance marked Pennsylvania’s fifth consecutive win over Maryland.
Denmark’s prowess was evident in his ability to dominate Maryland’s defensive backs, particularly on deep throws along the sideline. Standing at 5-foot-11, he showcased his skills in contested catches, including a remarkable 52-yard catch-and-run touchdown where he shrugged off a defender. Despite the influx of talented wide receivers from high school to college football, Penn State’s freshman receivers failed to make an impact in 2023, with only redshirt freshman Kaden Saunders contributing notable stats.
Apart from Denmark, another future Nittany Lion, Kenneth Woseley, also represented Pennsylvania in the Big 33 Classic. Woseley, a three-star cornerback and Denmark’s teammate from Imhotep Charter, made two tackles during the game. While Woseley may not immediately stand out in his first year at Penn State, Denmark could potentially secure a significant role in the offense under the guidance of new offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki.
Despite the expected dominance of Ohio State transfer Julian Fleming and redshirt junior Harrison Wallace III at the top of the wide receiver depth chart, Denmark has an opportunity to compete for the third spot, especially after the departure of last year’s leading receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith. Denmark faces competition from redshirt junior Liam Clifford and junior Omari Evans, with incoming freshmen Josiah Brown and Peter Gonzalez also in contention.
While success in a high school all-star game doesn’t guarantee success at the college or professional level, the Big 33 Classic holds special significance. Many alumni of the game have gone on to have illustrious careers, with at least one participant appearing in every Super Bowl to date. Notable Penn State alumni who have played in the game include Kevin Givens and Miles Sanders, and the 2022 MVP was current Penn State linebacker Keon Wylie. Other esteemed Nittany Lions who have participated in the Big 33 Classic include Kerry Collins and LaVar Arrington.
