Penn State vs Michigan Game Grades

Oct 11, 2014; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions running back Bill Belton (1) runs the ball during the third quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Running Backs

Early on in the game it looked like Bill Belton was ready to break out and put together a monster day. For some reason, the coaches got away from the run game and getting Belton the ball, leading to some of the offensive struggles in half number two. Belton finished with 69 rushing yards and 24 receiving yards. A solid day, but one that could have been huge had he received the ball more often. It seems to be clear now that Belton will be the go-to back, as Zach Zwinak’s role has dwindled. Zwinak finished with just three carries and struggled mightily in pass protection. Belton offers the best combination of play-making, pass catching and blocking, while Lynch should get some change of pace carries. The blocking wasn’t there on Lynch’s carries, but he showed solid ability to gain positive yards when nothing is there. It certainly wasn’t a standout day for the crop of backs, but they were serviceable for the blocking they received.

Grade: C