Penn State vs Rutgers Game Grades

Sep 13, 2014; Piscataway, NJ, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions running back Bill Belton (1) drags Rutgers Scarlet Knights linebacker Quentin Gause (50) across goal line as offensive tackle Andrew Nelson (59) signals a go ahead touchdown at High Points Solutions Stadium. Penn State Nittany Lions defeat the Rutgers Scarlet Knights 13-10. Mandatory Credit: Jim O’Connor- USA TODAY Sports

Running Backs 

This group continues to be an enigma each week. Each running back has enjoyed success in the past few seasons, but the makeshift offensive line continues to hold the unit back. However, the line can’t be completely blamed, as the backs still seem hesitant to hit their holes. Belton was the back to receive the bulk of the carries this week, as he has proven he is a strong asset due to his pass-catching and pass-blocking ability.

Belton finished with just 36 yards on 15 carries, but added another 52 receiving yards. Zach Zwinak and Akeel Lynch received just 3 carries for 5-yards combined. Belton found room on a few carries, including the game-winning 5-yard scamper, but due to poor blocking, was met in the backfield on more than one occasion.

If not for Belton’s elusiveness, the running back would’ve been caught for much larger losses on a few different carries. The senior running back has seems to have carved out his place in the offense thanks to his versatility, while Zwinak has been demoted to short-yardage situations and spelling Belton. Lynch’s role in Franklin’s offense has yet to be determined.

Grade: C+