Penn State vs USC Grades

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January 2, 2017; Pasadena, CA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions wide receiver Chris Godwin (12) catches a pass against the Southern California Trojans during the first half of the 2017 Rose Bowl game at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Wide Receivers / Tight Ends

On a day where many thought, myself included, that Chris Godwin might be shut down by USC’s star defensive back Adoree Jackson, Godwin went out and had perhaps his best day as a Nittany Lion.

Godwin had 9 catches for 187 and two spectacular touchdown grabs. The first in the back of the end zone was a beautiful throw from McSorley and and even better tip-toeing catch by Godwin. The second one came later in the game during Penn State’s crazy four play, four TD run. The ball was tipped by a USC defender right to Godwin who bobbled for a second but held on and was off to the end zone.

Mike Gesicki had one catch, which ended up being a nice 11-yard touchdown grab. Other than Godwin and Gesicki, that was it. DeAndre Thompkins only had two catches for nine yards and was not on the same page with McSorley, leading to the early interceptions. Not even sure DeSean Hamilton was targeted in the game. The Lions missed Saeed Blacknall.

Grade: B+

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