UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - The sounds of pads popping echoed through the air outside of the Lasch Football Building on Saturday morning as the Nittany Lions practiced in full pads for the first time during training camp.

Following five acclimation days, NCAA rules permit teams to practice in full pads during the sixth session of the fall.  Penn State conducted periods of individual drills and teaching, along with several periods of live scrimmaging while the squad worked on blitzing, two-minute offense, red zone work, seven-on-seven and a full team session on Saturday morning.

Saturday also marked the first day of double sessions for head coach Bill O'Brien and the Nittany Lions during 2012 training camp.  Penn State will practice once on Sunday afternoon before another two-a-day on Monday.  GoPSUsports.com caught up with senior linebacker Gerald Hodges and senior running back Michael Zordich, who was one of three current Nittany Lions who also graduated on Saturday, following the morning session.  Hear what Hodges and Zordich had to say about a physical practice in full pads.

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