The cornerback played five seasons for the Nittany Lions.
This is the first time this season that the Nittany Lions moved up in the rankings.
Penn State will open its season on November 3 against Fairfield.
The award comes after two standout performances in wins against Wisconsin and Northwestern.
"Our next coach will be someone who embodies everything Penn State stands for."
The Nittany Lions dropped two spots following a series split with Clarkson over the weekend.