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Penn State Football: Marcus Allen’s return gives defense gritty edge

By Collin Wieder

Nov 12, 2016; Bloomington, IN, USA; Indiana Hoosiers running back Camion Patrick (6) runs with the football defended by Penn State Nittany Lions safety Marcus Allen (2) during the second half of the game at Memorial Stadium. The Penn State Nittany Lions defeated the Indiana Hoosiers 45-31. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2016; Bloomington, IN, USA; Indiana Hoosiers running back Camion Patrick (6) runs with the football defended by Penn State Nittany Lions safety Marcus Allen (2) during the second half of the game at Memorial Stadium. The Penn State Nittany Lions defeated the Indiana Hoosiers 45-31. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-USA TODAY Sports /
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Safety Marcus Allen brings an edge to Penn State football’s defense. He plays like a linebacker in the box. He’s a downhill attacker that can make plays.

Senior safety Marcus Allen began starting for the Nittany Lions in his freshman year and compiled strong numbers every year. Penn State football saw its program go from a mediocre, 7-6 squad to Big Ten Champs during Allen’s first three years.

Throughout Allen’s entire career, he became known for his run-stuffing. In three seasons, he compiled 249 total tackles, 13 tackles for loss, eight passes deflected and three forced fumbles. He recorded double-digit tackles in three games including an unbelievable 22 tackles during Penn State football’s 29-26 win over Minnesota.  His 2016 performance showed that he is almost like another linebacker in the box.

Allen can blow up running plays in the backfield or clean up better than most safeties in the country. He won’t shutdown a team’s best wide receiver, but he’s a physical presence on the back end. He can separate the ball from a ballcarrier. If a receiver crosses him over the middle, they’ll pay. He’s a throwback in that respect, but the most prominent skill for Allen is that he’s a playmaker.

If you need an example of Allen’s playmaking watch his blocked kick against Ohio State (Courtesy of Big Ten Network). It single-handedly turned the Nittany Lions’ season around. The play put the team on track to win the Big Ten Championship.

The playmaker aspect also applies to his effect on other players. Allen coming back means the defense will carry someone who can instill confidence and excitement into the defense. Big hits and turnovers spark teams and Allen brings both back.

Furthermore, Allen’s return for his senior year means he can improve on his pass coverage abilities and his draft stock. In his three seasons, he’s never recorded an interception. It’ll give him a chance to advance his game into more of a balanced player. Currently, Allen is ranked as the fourth free safety in CBS Sports mock draft in the 2018.

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Although the 2016 season didn’t end with a win, Allen can help the Nittany Lions take the final step and win a major bowl game in 2017.

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