Penn State Nittany Lions vs. Kent State Golden Flashes Position Grades

Penn State vs. Kent State Position Grades

Sep 3, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin congratulates defensive end Shareef Miller (48) following a sack against Kent State Golden Flashes quarterback Justin Agner (not pictured) during the third quarter at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Kent State 33-13. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O /

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Sep 3, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball during the second quarter against the Kent State Golden Flashes at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren- USA TODAY Sports /

Running Backs

Outside of a run for a loss of two yards by redshirt freshman Andre Robinson, sophomore Saquon Barkley was the only Penn State running back to see any action against Kent State. His numbers won’t jump off the page at you, but he quietly put together a 100-yard game with a touchdown.

Kent State was clearly keying on Barkley, staying the box and making it tough for him to find running room. Still, he had a few moments where he showed off his elusiveness.

Barkley is clearly a big part of Penn State’s offense, even if he’s not putting up huge numbers. With defenses paying so much attention to him, other players will be able to make some big plays.

It wasn’t a huge day from the star runner, but overall, it was a very solid opening performance.

Next: Wide Receivers/Tight Ends

Grade: B+

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