Penn State vs. Pitt Position Grades

Sep 10, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions running back Saquon Barkley (26) dives over the line of scrimmage into the end-zone for a touchdown against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the second quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

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Sep 10, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin walks on the sidelines against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. PITT won 42-39. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

Coaching

Another slow start ultimately decided Penn State’s fate. Everyone knew the Pitt team versus Villanova wasn’t going to be the same one that showed up versus Penn State, but the way the game started it seemed like the players were unprepared.

However, the team made the adjustments, especially at halftime, and never quit. They could have easily packed it up when it was 28-7 but they showed heart and didn’t quit.

The only complaint on the play calling I have is after the fumble recovery deep in Pitt and Penn State down seven, there were no run calls to Barkley.

I will also say I don’t mind the call at the end that was the interception. I just wish McSorley would have made a better decision. That will come with experience.

Another game in the Franklin era where they fell short, but the team showed heart and can take some positives away to build on.

Grade: C

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