Nebraska tangles Saturday with a tested Penn State team on at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln. The game is set for a 2:35 p.m. (CST) kickoff and will be televised by ABC.
The Nittany Lions are 6-3 on the season. Bill O'Brien is in his first year as the head coach. He has sold his team on a disciplined approach that has led to a very successful season after an 0-2 start. O'Brien was the offensive coordinator for the New England Patriots, so he is known for his pro-style offensive attack. His team makes few mistakes and will be a challenge for the Cornhuskers to beat.
Quarterback Matt McGloin (6-foot-1, 201 Pounds, Senior) leads the way for the offense. He has made great decisions this season for Penn State. McGloin is a drop back passer that is no threat to run outside of the pocket. So far in 2012 McGloin has completed 62.7 percent (211 of 340) of his passes with 18 touchdowns and only three interceptions. He throws for just over 270 yards per game. McGloin looks to pass a great deal to his tight ends, much in the way Tom Brady does for New England in the National Football League.
The top target in the passing game is Allen Robinson (6-3, 201, So.). He leads the Big 10 Conference with 57 receptions. He averages over 76 yards receiving per game with eight touchdowns on the season. Tight end Kyle Carter (6-3, 247, Fr.) has 35 catches for 441 yards on the season. The passing game has hurt Penn State opponents this season.
The Nittany Lions average 140 yards per game running the football. Several backs will see action for Penn State. Zach Swinak (6-1, 232, So.) is a good physical runner that averages 60 yards a game with three touchdowns on the season. Bill Belton (5-10, 202, So.) adds 43 yards a game with three touchdowns this season. Fullback Michael Zordich (6-1, 236, Sr.) is a fine lead blocker that will run tough inside as well.
The offensive line protects McGloin well. Fom tackle to tackle the Nittany Lions average 6-4 and 306 pounds per man. Center Matt Stankiewitch (6-3, 301, Sr.) and right tackle Mike Farrell (6-6, 306, Sr.) lead the way. This group is better pass protecting than run blocking in 2012.
Penn State has always been known for defense. this season that is again the case. As a team they allow 123 yards rushing and 211yards passing per game. The also have a tough scoring defense, giving up only 17 points per game. Up front Jordan Hill (6-1, 292, Sr.) has been impressive at tackle but he has had some trecent injuries and is questionable for the game. The linebackers are outstanding. Michael Mauti (6-2, 232, Sr.) is likely the best linebacker in the conference. He runs the field and makes plays. Mauti also leads the team with three interceptions and 83 total tackles. The secondary is very small and the weakest group of a strong defensive unit.
The Nittany Lions have been poor in the kicking game. Kicker Sam Ficken (6-3, 172, So.) is only 7 of 14 on field goals with a long of only 34 yards and has missed two extra points. Punter Alex Butterworth (5-10, 206, Jr.) averages just over 36 yards per punt. Penn State also has not been impressive in the return game.
Nebraska has a major edge on special teams, the offense has more depth of talent while Penn State may show an advantage on defense. The Huskers need to play with focus and intensity on Saturday. If the Big Red plays with passion and limits mistakes, they are the better football team. Penn State starts fast, outscoring team 76-3 in the first quarter. I believe Nebraska will come out sharp and win 31-20 over Penn State on Saturday. Thanks for reading Going Deep With Doze.
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