#6 Zack Mills (Quarterback, 2001-2004): Mills doesn't have the recognition that former quarterbacks Michael Robinson and Kerry Collins have but he has the numbers and he had the toughness to go along with it. The high school standout from Frederick, Maryland came to Happy Valley in 2001. Mills' career was up and down in terms of the teams record; he led the Nittany Lions to the Capitol One Bowl in 2002 but would fall short to Aubrun 13-9. He was replaced by running back/wide receiver turned quarterback Michael Robinson in 2005 and many will overlook his career because of those records.
When Mills arrived on campus there was already a quarterback ahead of him in Matt Seneca, I apologize Penn State fans for bringing up that name, but Mills began his career by redshirting but then replaced then struggling Seneca. The inexperienced quarterback came in with much hype regarding his ability to run the ball as well as he passed it. He wouldn't have to wait long to replace Seneca and his first big stage moment came against Ohio State in 2001 at Beaver Stadium. Seneca was benched in favor of Mills as he found his team down 27-9. He would lead the comeback over the Buckeyes and would give coach Joe Paterno his 324th career win which at the time made him the all time winningest coach. The game was highlighted by a 69-yard touchdown run by Mills. The Lions would finish 5-6 on the year.
Mills didn't have the impact on Penn State like a Derrick Williams did but his career was one of the more impressive ones despite having a lack of talent on offense. He played much of his career hurt but was as tough as they come. His final two seasons weren't as fun to watch as his first two but nonetheless, he had an outstanding career.
Career Achievements:
-7,796 career total yards
-41 career touchdown passes (since broken by Daryll Clark then Matt McGloin)
-All-Big Ten (2002)
-16 career 200-yard passing games
-Only player under Joe Paterno to throw, catch, and run for a touchdown (Akron 2004)
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