Penn State wins, 20-6
Penn State survived today on the road against Purdue. Here's some initial thoughts. I'll have the full review tomorrow.
The Good: The defense was spectacular today, nearly getting the shut out. I felt some of the penalties were unnecessary, especially in pass coverage. But the PSU secondary played very aggressive today, and penalties happen. I was very impressed by the rush defense, holding Kory Sheets to only 59 yards, effectively turning Purdue one-dimensional. On the offensive side of the ball, Penn State didn't blow anyone away, but there were no turnovers (a few came close though) and Daryll Clark had a very efficient day. What can you say about Evan Royster and Stephfon Green? Not much, other than that they're both really good, when used correctly. PSU used them correctly today.
The Bad: What was with that field today? Both sides were slipping and sliding all over. Most noticeably was Rosyter and Green losing grip on their cut-back runs. I think the offense would have put a lot more points on the board if it wasn't for the slippery field. Oh well. Penn State gave up a few sacks, mainly coverage sacks, but still worrisome. I could get on PSU's case today, particularly the offense, but I won't.
Overall: Joe Paterno's leg is starting to worry me. But that's all I'll say. This was a big performance by Penn State today, considering it was picked by some as a let-down week. Like I said above, I could pick on a lot of specific things, but right now any win is good for Penn State. I'll be at a wedding the rest of the night (I'm in Northern PA right now), so I can't really watch any more games. But I'll give PSU a great chance to win in Madison next week.
2 Commented on this story:
[Brian, Suwanee GA] After watching the Wisconsin meltdown, one area I PRAY we focus on is Wisconin's (and OSU for that matter) inability to effectively manage the spread/mobile quarterback. Just watching Pryor roam about the field displayed Wisconin's defensive inabilty to contain him...which brings me to our trip to Madison - Although Clark will need to have a sound performance Saturday night, I am more than confident the SpreadHD should develop nicely. The only potential downside to this is Wisconsin can work on their defensive scheme this week to correct the issues with Pryor and more/less model that for Clark's arrival. Additionally, Jordan Norwood's (cross fingers) presence across the middle will certainly benefit considering the Tight End bangs/bruises!
Good call on the leg. Every game he spends up there is one game closer to Spanier shoving him out the door, no matter how good the year works out for us.
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