Nobody is more surprised at the breakout season by Penn State sophomore Maurice Evans than Evans himself.

“I just expected to have an average season, being a first-time starter,” said the explosive defensive end from Brooklyn. “So I didn't expect things to be like this at all.”

The 6-foot-2, 270-pounder currently ranks third in the nation with 12.5 sacks and 21.5 tackles for loss. Evans is second in the Big Ten Conference in both statistics.

“Evans has been good, solid all the time,” said head coach Joe Paterno.

Temple head coach Al Golden said that Evans has All-American numbers and is playing like a budding superstar. With two years of eligibility after the 2007 season, Evans certainly looks like the next great PSU defensive end, the latest in an impressive line of standouts, including Tamba Hali, Michael Haynes and Courtney Brown.

Evans said that he has received advice from Hali – an All-American in 2005 – and Jay Alford, and All-Conference tackle last season.

“Tamba and Alford just tell me: ‘Don't let things get to your head. There is always room to get better, there is always room for improvement,’” he said. “And I take that (advice) into every game.” – NEIL GEOGHEGAN.