Penn State 'hopeful' for end Chop Robinson to return against Ohio State
Penn State was without defensive end Chop Robinson during last weekend’s 45-17 win over Minnesota. The transfer has been terrific for the Lions before missing last weekend’s matchup. And, it goes without saying that Penn State will need to be at full strength or as close as possible to it to take down No. 2 Ohio State as a 15.5-point underdog on Saturday at Beaver Stadium.
So, what is Robinson’s status heading into the Noon ET showdown with the Buckeyes on FOX after the the defender was seen at practice on Wednesday?
“[It’s] still early in the week, but he was able to practice today,” head coach James Franklin said. “Obviously, you guys know he’s been an explosive playmaker for us on the defensive side of the ball.
“Obviously against this unit, their ability to throw the ball, being able to get pressure on a quarterback can make him uncomfortable in the pocket, that would be valuable. He’s also been disruptive against the run. So we’re hopeful to have him.”
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What will Penn State do if Robinson cannot play?
Robinson will continue practicing this week. But, his status will not be known until about an hour before kickoff. Penn State defensive linemen go through the early portion of warmups sooner than other position groups. But, a true answer likely won’t be known until closer to kickoff. To date, Robinson has 14 tackles (3.5 for loss) and a sack through six games. He also has three quarterback hurries, two pass breakups, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. No reason was given as to why he missed the game against the Golden Gophers, which was the Lions’ annual White Out game.
With Robinson sidelined, Adisa Isaac played 42 snaps at end, which was his second most of the season. Nick Tarburton played what has become a regular snap count in the mid-30s, as well. And, freshman Dani Dennis-Sutton played 24. That’s a career record for him against a Big Ten foe.
Robinson transferred into the Penn State program this offseason. The former highly-regarded recruit played just one season at Maryland. There, he was a linebacker. But, once he arrived in State College, the program quickly transitioned him to defensive end. It has paid major dividends so far. So far, he is the Lions’ highest-graded defender per Pro Football Focus. He also is its best pass rusher, per PFF, and as Franklin said, he’s performed well against the run, as well.
