Penn State vs. Michigan State Position Grades

Nov 28, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Christian Hackenberg (14) is sacked by Michigan State Spartans defensive lineman Malik McDowell (4) during the 1st half game of a game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Offensive Line:

Another game and the same old story for this maligned offensive line.  It’s just not good and it’s never going to be very good.

They allowed two more sacks, bringing their regular season total to 39 allowed, one of the worst in FBS football.  Hackenberg was hurried on many other drop backs after the offense got away from the quick throws.  I also don’t recall them opening a lot of holes for Barkley.  He got most of his yards on his own.

There were also a few false starts and holding penalties that just are drive killers.  You can’t have mistakes like that against a top 5 team.

We knew coming into the season that the offense would only be as good as the line would allow them.  Sure enough, it was hindered all year and the line was a major reason.  Most players will be back next year on this line so we’ll see if some of the younger players can also be worked into the rotation.

Grade: D+

Next: Defensive Line