Penn State Football: Game Grades for the Game Against Akron

Sep 6, 2014; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive tackle

(98) breaks through the Akron Zips defense during the third quarter at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Akron 21-3. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren- USA TODAY Sports

Defensive Line –

The strongest unit of the defense, thus far, was sharp again against Akron. Led by Anthony Zettel (3 tackles, 1 sack) and Deion Barnes (4 tackles, 1 tackle for loss) the D-line consistently got pressure on Akron QB Kyle Pohl and forced him out of the pocket on countless occasions.

They were just as stellar in the run game, clogging up lanes and allowing guys like Mike Hull to clean up and make the plays.

The coaching staff showed off some of the depth on the defensive line, as Carl Nassib, Brad Bars, Parker Cothren and Tarow Barney saw action and helped make an impact. Austin Johnson was stellar in the middle as well, but Zettel’s performance was again a big part of the defense’s success.

Grade – A-