Penn State vs. Michigan Position Grades

Nov 21, 2015; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive tackle Anthony Zettel (98) hugs head coach James Franklin (L) during the Senior Day festivities prior to the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Beaver Stadium. Michigan won 28-16. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren- USA TODAY Sports

On Senior Day in front of a White Out crowd,  Penn State couldn’t overcome poor play calling and poor execution on offense, losing to Michigan 28-16.  It was a pretty awful day for Christian Hackenberg and company.  There was little to no consistency on offense and outside of a huge first drive run from Barkley, no running game.

Penn State had multiple chances inside the Michigan 10 and could only come away with field goals.  That’s not how you beat a top 15 team.

The defense tried its best to keep Penn State in the ball game.  Unfortunately, poor tackling and a couple of special teams gaffes set up Michigan touchdowns.  There were some bright spots for the defense and we’ll get to those in the grades.

However, overall, Michigan gashed them for big chunks of yards all game.

Another inconsistent performance signaled doom for Penn State.  This is just not a very good football team.  Inconsistencies and youth have led to the results on the football field.  Hopefully in time, things will improve for Penn State as today’s young players gain more experience and mature.

It’s tough to see the senior class go out like that in their last home game, especially the last ones that played under Joe Paterno.  They stayed when they could have gone and they’ve been through more than most college football players.  Despite the results on Saturday, every Penn Stater needs to remember that and salute these guys.

Let’s get to the position grades.

Next: Quarterbacks