Penn State Football: Keys to the Game vs Ohio State

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Apr 16, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Joe Moorhead looks on during a warmup prior to the Blue White spring game at Beaver Stadium. The Blue team defeated the White team 37-0. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren- USA TODAy Sports /

Key 1: Break Out of the Box:

I hate to break to those in denial, but Penn State is out-manned at nearly every key position. How can the Lions expect to keep up if that statement is even remotely true? They need to think outside the box – literally! Offensive coordinator Joe Moorhead needs to continue to find ways to get both Barkley and McSorley in space.

Penn State used Maryland’s over pursuit of running back Saquon Barkley against them two weeks ago. As Maryland’s defensive ends crashed on the delayed hand off, quarterback Trace McSorley would pull the ball and scamper for big yards. This week expect Moorhead to continue calling plays designed to keep the Buckeyes defense honest.

Watch the athleticism of true freshman Connor McGovern (#66) on Trace McSorley’s touchdown two weeks ago. Two things to keep your eye on as the play develops: watch McGovern kick out the defensive end, and watch how McSorley reads this and keeps the ball. The result…six points.

http://video.btn.com/penn-state-takes-the-lead-on-mcsorley-keeper

If Penn State can keep the Buckeyes defensive front simply pinning their ears and attacking the line of scrimmage, they may provide enough time for McSorley or Barkley to make a play.

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