| Bani Gbadyu |
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In his first season on the field, Bani Gbadyu made an impact on special teams and made good progress earning more time in the Nittany Lions' talented and deep linebacker rotation. A quick and strong athlete, Gbadyu had a strong spring practice session and is atop the depth chart at one of the outside linebacker posts. A first-team all-state selection at Quince Orchard HS, Gbadyu is a highly skilled and instinctive player who, with continued improvement, should have an opportunity to play a significant role for the defense the next three seasons. He earned a 3.56 grade-point average during the spring semester for Dean's List recognition. Born in Liberia, Gbadyu is one of seven returning Nittany Lions who were prep standouts in Maryland.
2007 Sophomore Season
Gbadyu played in every game on defense and special teams, recording six tackles. He made a season-high three tackles at Michigan State, a solo stop against Buffalo and a punishing solo hit at Temple. He saw action on 133 plays, led by 23 at Michigan State.
2006 Freshman Season
Redshirt Season.
High School
Gbadyu was a first-team all-state selection and team captain at Quince Orchard HS. Playing for Coach Dave Mencarini, he earned Washington Post All-Met honors during his senior season. As a junior and senior, he received first-team all-county and all-conference accolades, playing safety, linebacker, defensive end and running back. He was injured for a portion of his senior season, but ran for 860 yards and 16 touchdowns and made 65 tackles and forced five fumbles. As a junior, he had 78 tackles, 15 sacks and three fumble recoveries. He was instrumental in Quince Orchard winning a pair of 4A West championships.
