Penn State vs UMass: Game Grades

Sep 20, 2014; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin reads a play to Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback D.J. Crook (17) during the third quarter against the Massachusetts Minutemen at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Massachusetts 48-7. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren- USA TODAY Sports

Coaching

I was very pleased that the coaching staff came out with the mindset to establish the ground game in this one. Playing an inferior opponent like UMass gave the staff the perfect opportunity to iron out the inconsistencies of the rushing attack. The Wildcat may not work against tougher teams, but it was a pleasantly effective surprise on Saturday.

I have a feeling the jet sweep with Belton and Lynch could be very effective.

The coaching staff realized this wasn’t a game where they needed to air it out or do anything crazy offensively. Simple, but effective was the case on Saturday. The defensive game plan was effective, as usual, dialing up pressure on the QB at all times. Good game plan by the staff.

Grade : A