UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The most anticipated transfer of the post-Franklin era is official. Rocco Becht, the standout quarterback from Iowa State, has committed to Penn State, reuniting with his former head coach Matt Campbell and offensive coordinator Taylor Mouser.
Becht’s arrival on Jan 31 immediately transforms the 2026 quarterback competition from a question mark into a heavyweight title fight.
The “System Quarterback” Advantage
While Beau Pribula has waited four years for his turn and Jaxon Smolik showed flashes in limited duty, Becht arrives with a unique advantage: he already knows the playbook.
As the 2023 Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year under Campbell, Becht operated the exact “Mouser Offense” that is currently being installed at the Lasch Building. In 2025, he threw for over 3,100 yards and 23 touchdowns, demonstrating the efficiency and decision-making that Campbell prizes.
Quarterback Depth Chart: The New Hierarchy?
With confirmed transfers and existing depth, here is how the QB room projects entering Winter Workouts:
- Rocco Becht (Redshirt Junior): The projected starter. His familiarity with the scheme allows him to operate the offense at “Day 1” speed while others are still learning terminology.
- Beau Pribula (Redshirt Senior): The ultimate competitor. Pribula won’t go quietly. His mobility offers a dimension Becht lacks, potentially leading to specific “Red Box” packages or a full-blown camp battle.
- Jaxon Smolik (Redshirt Sophomore): Now likely battling for the primary backup role.
- Connor Barry (Graduate Transfer): The newly added D3 transfer provides emergency depth and a scout team arm.
Why This Matters
Campbell’s system relies heavily on pre-snap reads and tight end utilization—areas where Becht excels. His connection with fellow transfer Cooper Alexander (TE) indicates that the “Iowa State Midwest” influence on the offense will be substantial.
For Pribula, this is the ultimate challenge. He must prove that his athleticism outweighs Becht’s systemic mastery. The battle begins Feb 1 in the weight room.