Sunday Film Study: Penn State defense wakes up in the second half and the reasons for its slow start

ThomasFrankCarr

Zane Durant Penn State Football On3 — Penn State Nittany Lions defensive tackle Zane Durant (28) reacts following a tackle on Bowling Green Falcons tight end Harold Fannin Jr (0) during the fourth quarter at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Bowling Green 34-27. (Photo: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images)

The Penn State defense had a surprisingly slow start to its win over Bowling Green on Saturday, causing a wave of concern, frustration, and general consternation from fans. Today, we're breaking down what happened and why it happened. Despite allowing 286 yards and 24 points in the first half, the defense shut the door in the second, allowing 89 total yards and just three points in the fourth quarter.