Penn State vs. Illinois Position Grades

Oct 31, 2015; University Park, PA, USA; (Editor’s Note: Caption Correction) Penn State Nittany Lions running back Saquon Barkley (26) lands in the end zone on Illinois Fighting Illini defensive back Taylor Barton (3) for a touchdown during the fourth quarter at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

Offensive Line:

The Penn State offensive line has struggled to find the right combination all season, with Brian Gaia being the only constant on the line. Though different line groupings have been used, nothing has seemed to be the exact fit yet.

Things for the offensive line were not great against the Illini, but it wasn’t the worst game the unit has played either. The Nittany Lions did give up three sacks, but it could have been even worse had quarterback Christian Hackenberg not been mobile in the pocket and able to avoid pressure.

As for the rushing attack, the Nittany Lions managed just 120 yards against the Illini. Running back Saquon Barkley often makes the line look good due to his elusive moves, but he did find it tough to get a lot of room on Saturday.

Overall, there weren’t major issues with the line, though an unnecessary chop block was called on a positive run by Barkley. The three sacks is still a concern, but there has been improvement each week. Hackenberg had more time to go through his progressions. There are no pictures of linemen from the game, which is probably a good sign.

Grade: B-

Next: Defensive Line