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 linebacker Brandon Bell (11) intercepts the ball during the third quarter against the Kent State Golden Flashes at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Kent State 33-13. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren- USA TODAY Sports /

Linebackers

Despite producing the two leading tacklers in the game, the linebackers had a tough time for the most part Saturday. There were a lot of missed tackles and players being out of position. While some of the individual stats are good, it was an average overall performance from the group.

Jason Cabinda led the team with 11 total tackles. Brandon Bell added eight tackles and an interception. Nyeem Wartman-White looked strong in his return and made five total tackles.

As the year goes on, defensive coordinator Brent Pry will need to find some more depth behind the three starters. Because of the way Saturday’s game went he really wasn’t able to get some of the younger guys a lot of playing time.

There’s room for improvement for the linebackers coming out of Week 1. The unit won’t have to worry much about a mobile quarterback in Week 2 against Pitt but will face a very tough running back in James Conner.

Grade: C+

Next: Secondary

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