Only an exhibition, Penn State’s Blue-White Game sometimes serves as a grand stage for many soon forgotten one-hit wonders.

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So I was asked to write about some noteworthy Nittany Lions whose standout success in the Spring game never translated to the regular season, players who shined brightly on Blue-White Saturday, never to be heard from again. Before we get to it though, please indulge me in a brief digression.

Here’s a hypothetical I love using as a conversation-starter: What kind of band would you rather be a part of: a one-hit wonder that bursts onto the scene with blinding brilliance before quickly flaming out, or a critical darling with a devoted cult following that never becomes a breakthrough commercial success? Would you choose one turn under the brightest lights at the expense of longevity, ending up an occasional punchline, but also the author of one undeniably great work that entertained the masses? Or would you take the path of the steady, but less spectacular, contented with exchanging household name status for a lengthy career? Would you rather play in Dexy’s Midnight Runners or the Tragically Hip?

It’s a great discussion. God bless my dear friend and great Penn Stater Chris G. Miller, who has the wisdom to choose the Hip and their lauded discography. There’s a lot to be said for decades of contentment. If I’m being honest, though, I want that one brass ring. If I can make one thing that lives on through frat parties and wedding receptions long after I’m worm food, I’m taking that shot.

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