Penn State-Illinois Takeaways: Ground game, pass rush lift Lions to victory
By Greg Pickel
Penn State is still unbeaten. It did not blast No. 19 Illinois as many thought it would, but it still did beat the Fighting Illini. In a game featuring lots of yards for the home team but not many points, head coach James Franklin’s team earned a 21-7 victory. Here are our initial takeaways.
1. The pass rush came to life
One of the big talking points over the first four weeks of the season focused on the Lions’ lack of sacks and tackles for loss despite the pass rush producing more positives than the stat sheet indicated. That all changed in a big way on Saturday night. The Lions finished with 7 sacks and 13 tackles for loss while holding Illinois a season-low in rushing yards with 34. The defense did have some issues overall with tackling and getting off the field at times. But the pass rush did enough to mask those en route to victory. Defensive end Abdul Carter and Zane Durant were especially impressive. And, Carter had the strip sack that ended the game.
2. Penn State has a kicking problem
It feels like it’s time for Penn State to give someone else a chance at placekicker. Program veteran Sander Sahaydak missed two field goals, both from 40 yards. He is now 2 of 5 on the season and 3 of 9 for his career. It is not good enough. The fact that it did not cost the Lions tonight is not a reason not to try someone else if the competition between Sahaydak, Chase Meyer and Ryan Barker was as close as claimed by speical teams coordinator Justin Lustig earlier this season. Barker took the last extra point attempt and may be the guy moving forward.
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3. Ground game gets it done
Both teams were focused on winning on the ground. Penn State executed its plan better than Illinois. Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen were both extremely active on this night, as was wildcat quarterback Tyler Warren. Both true running backs broke the 80-yard mark, with Singleton and Allen both finding the end zone. Warren was extremely effective when taking direct snaps. Allen finished with 102 yards on 18 carries, while Singleton had 94 yards on 16 carries. The team finished with 239 rushing yards and 374 total. It was a great night for the backs and the offensive line, who was not at full strength for much of the game but never missed a beat.
4. Odds and ends
–Penn State lost two guards to injury during the game. Sal Wormley was hurt early and did not return. Then, JB Nelson left the field in the second half and never returned.
–Abdul Carter was a monster on this night. He finished with five tackles (two for loss) and a pass breakup. That should put the “he should go back to linebacker” talk to rest. Defensive tackle Zane Durant was very good, too. He was super disruptive and finished with four tackles (two for loss).
–Both coaches had a LOT of words for head referee Jeff Servinski and his crew. It was not a good night for the stripes.
