Penn State vs. Northwestern Position Grades

Nov 7, 2015; Evanston, IL, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions linebacker Jason Cabinda (40) celebrates after intercepting the ball during the second half of the game against the Northwestern Wildcats at Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports

Linebackers:

This will be a similar grade to the defensive line.  The bright moments were Jason Cabinda’s interception and the play of Brandon Bell.  Bell finished the day with eight tackles, 2.5 sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss.  He was all over the field.

However, the downside was the fact that the middle of the field was left open all day and Northwestern quarterbacks took advantage.  I love the aggressiveness of the defense, but it can be caught out of position when they over pursue.  It was just uncharacteristic of this unit.

Grade: C

Next: Secondary