Penn State vs. Northwestern Game Grades

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

Linebackers

With Nyeem Wartman out with his arm in a sling, the Penn State linebackers were forced to dip into their depth. Von Walker got the start in his absence and recorded three tackles, but true freshman Jason Cabinda earned most of the snaps racking up eight tackles.

Mike Hull, the defensive leader, made up for Wartman’s absence and then some, but even his 16-tackle effort wasn’t enough to keep the Nittany Lions in this one. Hull was all over the field, racking up tackles, including a big stop on a fake field goal inside the 5-yard line. It was a career day for Hull, but I’m sure he, and the rest of the team, would rather the win.

Brandon Bell was shaken up a little bit during the game and finished with just two tackles.

The corps was strong against the run all day, but left a little too much cushion in pass coverage, especially in the middle of the field.

Grade: B