Penn State Nittany Lions vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers Position Grades

Penn State vs. Minnesota Position Grades

Oct 1, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions tackle Andrew Nelson (59) rings the victory bell following the conclusion of the overtime game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Minnesota 29-26 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O /

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Oct 1, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions linebacker Koa Farmer (7) gestures after tackling Minnesota Golden Gophers tight end Colton Beebe (44) during the fourth quarter at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Minnesota 29-26 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren- USA TODAY Sports /

Linebackers

This group is so very banged up and they might have more injuries to deal with as both Jake Cooper and Brandon Smith appeared hurt at the end of the game. However, this group hung in there throughout the contest.

Freshman Cam Brown had another solid week with nine tackles. This experience now could pay dividends in another season or two with Brown as he bulks up more and fine tunes his play.

Manny Bowen seemed like he was around the ball a lot and got some pressure in the Minnesota backfield. He finished the day with seven tackles, including two for loss. Smith also finished with seven tackles, a half tackle for loss and a pass breakup.

The way it sounded from James Franklin’s press conference earlier in the week, it could be a while before we see Jason Cabinda and Brandon Bell back, so we’ll be hearing the young guy’s names a lot.

Grade: C+

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