Penn State vs Rutgers Game Grades

Sep 6, 2014; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin answers questions from the media following the completion of the game against the Akron Zips at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Akron 21-3. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren- USA TODAY Sports

Coaching

James Franklin became the first Penn State head coach to start 3-0 in his first season since 1930. It wasn’t Franklin and the staff’s best game, however. The offense failed to do much of anything in the first half and despite the line’s failures, part of that can be attributed to play-calling.

Offensive coordinator John Donovan turned it around in the second half, but the Nittany Lions sorely needed some quick hitting plays in the first half. After a solid opening drive, Donovan set up Hackenberg with too many plays that took too long to progress. This wasn’t fixed until the second half and against a better team, Penn State might not be close enough to turn things around so quickly.

I liked that the coaching staff wasn’t afraid to try some trick and gadget plays when the regular offense couldn’t get anything going. The throwback to Hack out of the wildcat could become a useful play if defenses creep up when they see Belton lined up behind the center. I think the coaching staff tried to get too cute on the Hackenberg pooch punt. I can’t speak for everyone, but I can’t imagine that play fooled Rutgers or anyone watching, especially when Hack was lined up a few yards further back. That’s a situation where you just need to let the punter do his job.

The coaching staff called a wonderful last drive and put Hack in great position to lead the Nittany Lions down the field.

I continue to have a hard time finding any issues with Bob Shoop’s defense. He always seems to dial up the right play call.

Grade:B