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Penn State Football: Keys to the Game vs Rutgers

By Corey Hunter

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 Key No. 3 – Rutgers Pass Defense

Nov 28, 2015; Piscataway, NJ, USA; Maryland Terrapins quarterback Caleb Rowe (7) runs with the ball while avoided a tackle attempt by Rutgers Scarlet Knights defensive back Saquan Hampton (9) during the second half at High Points Solutions Stadium. Maryland defeated Rutgers 46-41. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2015; Piscataway, NJ, USA; Maryland Terrapins quarterback Caleb Rowe (7) runs with the ball while avoided a tackle attempt by Rutgers Scarlet Knights defensive back Saquan Hampton (9) during the second half at High Points Solutions Stadium. Maryland defeated Rutgers 46-41. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports /

The Scarlet Knights do have some redeeming qualities – their pass defense is one of the best in the Big Ten.  Of course there are some reasons why Rutgers has such a good pass defense.  Since teams are running the ball essentially unfettered, why pass the ball?  A fair question given that every team that has faced Rutgers has attempted at least 30 rushes.

Another reason for such a staunch pass defense is the play of the Rutgers defensive linemen, especially defensive end Julian Pinnix-Odrick – half brother to former Penn State standout Jared Odrick.  This week Penn State labeled the linemen as potential “game-wreckers”.  Of course only time will tell if they are able to thwart the Penn State offensive game plan.

Pinnix-Odrick leads the Scarlet Knights with 4.5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss while fellow defensive end Darnell Davis has a sack and 6.5 tackles for loss.

Those are just a few reasons why Rutgers has only allowed three teams to even pass for 200 yards in a game. On Saturday night look for the Lions to throw a few deep early hoping for a long connection or two.  That should loosen the defense for Barkley to romp.

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