UNIVERSITY PARK — One key part of the Penn State football team wanted to see wide receiver Allen Robinson play more last season.

Quarterback Matt McGloin, whose own time was limited in 2011, said Robinson deserved more action as a true freshman. Robinson caught just three passes for 29 yards last season.

"He definitely should have played a lot more than he did last year," McGloin said today. "He's a great athlete, great player, good person. He works his tail off. The coaches last year didn't give him the opportunity he deserved."

Robinson's fast start has led to questions regarding his 2011 usage. Robinson lost his redshirt despite playing behind top targets Derek Moye, Justin Brown and Devon Smith.

Moye exhausted his eligibility and Brown and Smith transferred, giving Robinson a chance to develop into a primary threat.

He has responded by catching a team-high 24 passes for 322 yards through three games.

"He didn't get discouraged," McGloin said. "He kept working his tail off and had a great spring and great summer and a great camp as well.

"It's really showing so far this season. Hopefully he's going to be one of the best wideouts this place has seen in a long time."

Guy Cipriano can be reached at 231-4643. Follow him on Twitter @cdtguy