I said this a couple of weeks ago and it's as true today, whatever Penning's journey so far (played a lot, played a little, hurt, not hurt, whatever) he needs to produce. It's going to get very binary, very soon and understanding the context only goes so far, loving the potential only goes so far. The debate about whether he should be better than he is or where he should be now based on his journey is becoming moot. He needs to produce, he needs to demonstrate competency, he needs to show he can be trusted to deploy what he's been taught to be an effective member of the OL.
It's that simple. For me, he's not demonstrated that yet. His run blocking was better last week and I hope that we don't see a backslide there this week. But his pass pro is still highly suspect unless it's supported. No pressures, no sacks etc doesn't matter - it's always the process, not the outcome. And the process, from what I saw and in my opinion and taking into account what I don't know, wasn't good enough.
I also said a few weeks ago that either Penning would demonstrate his competency or else it would likely be someone else starting. Now, we aren't exactly spoiled for choice but if Udoh shows a bit more consistency and competency, I think he will be starting week 1. Penning has not set a high bar and it's pretty sad that we're unsure Udoh can surpass it but it is what it is. Feels a bit like watching a dunk contest between two 8 year olds...
