Penn State vs Michigan State Position Grades

Nov 26, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Trace McSorley (9) celebrates with teammates wide receiver Chris Godwin (12) and cornerback John Reid (29) following the game against the Michigan State Spartans and winning the East Division Big Ten Championship at Beaver Stadium. The Nittany Lions won 45-12. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 26, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Michigan State Spartans wide receiver Monty Madaris (88) runs with the ball as Penn State Nittany Lions linebacker Brandon Bell (11) attempts a tackle during the fourth quarter at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Michigan State 45-12. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren- USA TODAY Sports /

Linebackers

For his last home game as a Nittany Lion, Brandon Bell was a man possessed. He ended the day with 18 tackles, a half tackle for loss and a pass breakup. He was a monster all over the field.

Not to be outdone, Manny Bowen had a nice nine-tackle afternoon plus he tallied a sack. Jason Cabinda and Brandon Smith combined for 13 tackles and a tackle for loss. Cabinda did leave the game for a short time due to injury, but seemed ok once he returned to the game.

Like the defensive line, this unit had trouble early stopping the Spartans. However they settled in during the second half and turned in a solid performance.

Grade: B+

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