Penn State Football: Game Grades for the Game Against Akron

Sep 6, 2014; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions wide receiver Geno Lewis (7) makes a catch during the third quarter against the Akron Zips at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Akron 21-3. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren- USA TODAY Sports

Wide Receivers/Tight Ends –

No positional group has impressed me more than the pass catchers, thus far. Despite Hack’s up-and-down day, the receivers put up another big-time performance. Lewis (6 catches for 98 yards) and Hamilton (7 catches for 69) have been incredibly impressive to this point and are certainly helping fans get over the departure of current Jaguar, Allen Robinson.

Lewis made some huge catches, none bigger than an outstanding catch on a beautiful throw from Hackenberg on third and 25. Hamilton has showed how reliable he is and in his young career has already developed into Hack’s “safety blanket”. The young receivers, such as Chris Godwin and Saeed Blacknall, are still being eased along, but have proven reliable as decoys and in blocking situations.

Early on, Jesse James was targeted a few times, but was unable to find a rhythm with Hackenberg. However, in the second half, James proved his worth and showed off speed and strength with his pair of touchdowns. True freshman Mike Gesicki (1 catch for 11 yards) and Kyle Carter (1 catch for 23 yards) also got in on the action.

Grade – A-