Penn State – Virginia First Half Observations

Here are some observations from the first half of the Virginia- Penn State game in Charlottesville, VA.

Derek Day is slow. He has had some big holes that he just isn’t able to accelerate through. He’s tough and shifty though and had a nice gain on a pass play. His helmet is also too big, or something.

Bill O’Brien is not afraid to go for it on 4th down. He did it twice in the first drive. Then went for a fake punt in the 2nd quarter and converted.

Coach was not kidding about wanting to run the ball more. Heavy does of Day and Zwinak early on.

Mauti with the early strip after the D worked on that all week. Roof concentrated on forcing turnovers after the game last week that saw zero.

Still some issues in the secondary. There are a lot of open receivers.

Dukes made an appearance, running the ball every time he was in. I think it’s his lack of blocking/receiving ability that keeps him on the sideline.

Really missing Fera right now. Six points are missing off the board and the punting game isn’t strong.

McGloin went out and BENCH went in. Paul Jones was thought to be the backup QB until mid-second quarter. Bench had a very strong summer. Kid is very accurate and mobile. Should be an interesting 2nd half.

Paul Jones switched back to jersey #13, his seemingly 43rd switch in his time at Penn State.

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