Sep 12, 2015; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions fans cheer during the second quarter against the Buffalo Bulls at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren- USA TODAY Sports
Linebackers:
Along with Nyeem Wartman-White being sidelined for the year, Brandon Bell and Ben Kline also sat out this game. Â So defensive coordinator Bob Shoop was forced to start young guys, and they delivered. Â Troy Reeder led the pack with seven tackles and true freshman Jake Cooper contributed three tackles, including a sack. Â Jason Cabinda, who started last week, chipped in six tackles and a pass breakup.
Cabinda and Reeder were laying big hits and they played well overall, but there were times that they were caught a little out of position.  That’s going to happen with the youth and I think they’ll learn as the season progresses.
Having to go deep into the depth chart this early in the season is not a good sign.  But it didn’t look like the linebackers missed a beat and getting the younger guys experience now could pay off dividends in the future.
Grade: B+
Next: Secondary