SCRANTON -- When Penn State quarterback Matt McGloin took his final snaps as a Nittany Lion this past weekend, it ended an era. McGloin's parents say the moment brought tears to their eyes.
"Saturday meant so much to me because what Matt did to get to where he was Saturday and claw his way for four years to become the starting quarterback at Penn State, and I was just so proud of him to complete what he did," said Paul McGloin.
Number 11 began his football career at Penn State as a walk-on, and now he's nominated for an honor centered on just that: The Burlsworth Trophy.
"I think it was made for him. I think it was made for someone who is tough and doesn't give up, you know, like, because I repeat myself, I told him I would have quit. I couldn't have kept on going," said Cathy McGloin.
"It was just his drive. Matt just always had this drive to never give up, never give up attitude, competition," said Paul McGloin.
Cathy and Paul McGloin are proud that their son is one of the top three finalists for this award that began in 2010.
It's named after Brandon Burlsworth, a former All American and walk-on offensive lineman at the University of Arkansas. Burlsworth died in a car crash just days after being selected by the Colts in the NFL Draft.
Now McGloin is also setting his sights on that next chapter as well.
"He's been playing since he was three years old, so now he's 22. I don't know how he could give it up. He can't," said Cathy.
"Several agents have contacted him. He talked to one today at Penn State. There's a managing firm out of New York that's coming to meet with us on Friday that would like to manage Matt, There's just so many options," said Paul.
Win or lose, they hope the Penn State uniform isn't their son's last, and are excited for what the future might bring.
The winner of the Burlsworth Trophy is decided by fan votes and the votes of a selection committee. McGloin is up against David Quessenberry, a tackle from San Jose State and Jordan Kovacs, a safety at the University of Michigan. You can vote online at www.burlsworthtrophy.com until December 2.