Penn State vs Michigan State Position Grades

9 of 9

Nov 26, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; A member of the PSU Big Uglies cheers during the first quarter against the Michigan State Spartans at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Michigan State 45-12. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren- USA TODAY Sports /

Special Teams

Blake Gillikin has been a big reason for the Penn State special teams turnaround this year. He averaged nearly 47 yards on his four punts, putting two of them inside the 20 including one inside the five. Football is a game of inches and winning the field position game has definitely improved for the Lions this year.

Joey Julius was pretty good and the coverage team did not allow the Spartans to get a big return. Tyler Davis nailed all his extra points and a 35-yard field goal.

No return game really to speak of but no turnovers like last week so that’s a positive.

Grade: B

Nov 26, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin holds the East Division Big Ten Championship Trophy following the game against the Michigan State Spartans at Beaver Stadium. The Nittany Lions won 45-12. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

Coaching

I would be curious to know exactly what Joe Moorhead does at halftime. The adjustments that he makes at the break turn sluggish starts into high powered second halves. It’s been quite the run this year for this offense.

When’s the last time a vote of confidence from an athletic director lead to a huge winning streak and a division title? That’s exactly what James Franklin and his staff did.

There’s still a lot to be accomplished, but let’s tip our hats to this staff for a job well done so far.

Grade: A

Home/Penn State Football