Penn State vs. Northwestern Game Grades

Sep 27, 2014; University Park, PA, USA; Northwestern Wildcats quarterback Trevor Siemian (13) throws a pass in the first quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

Defensive Line

Things weren’t as terrible on the defensive side of the ball, as it was the lack of offense and struggles on special teams that put Northwestern into position to turn this one into a blowout. Still, things weren’t as good as they have been.

Deion Barnes (6 tackles, 1 sack) was active throughout, but the line mostly failed to create a push when needed. It was still solid against the run, allowing just 2.7 yards per carry, but Trevor Siemian wasn’t under duress all that often.

Austin Johnson was solid, recording five tackles and breaking up a pass and Anthony Zettel picked up four tackles.

All-in-all, a decent, but not special or impressive showing by the Nittany Lions defensive line.

Grade: B-