Know Your 2018 Penn State Football Enemy: Kent State Golden Flashes
Kent State will look to shock the world against Penn State football in September.
After a Week 2 road battle with in-state Pitt, Penn State football will head back to Beaver Stadium in Week 3 to take on MAC foe Kent State. Kickoff for the cross-conference matchup is set for 12 noon on September 15.
The Nittany Lions and Golden Flashes have met five times over history, dating back to 1965. All five games have been in Happy Valley, with the Nittany Lions winning each matchup. The latest came in 2016, a 33-13 Penn State victory.
Kent State has really struggled over the last few seasons, compiling just 14 victories since an 11-win campaign in 2012. Coming off a 2-10 record last year, the Golden Flashes have brought in first-year head coach Sean Lewis to try and inject some life into the team, particularly on offense.
The Golden Flashes ranked 127th in the nation in total offense last season and only scored more than 17 points in a game three times.
Speed is the name of the game when it comes to the new coaching staff, and that’s what Kent State will try to employ this year. Quick plays and a quick-strike offense. Several skill players are back on offense and will look to make big improvements this year.
Justin Rankin returns at running back and could be in store for a breakout campaign.
He’s rushed for over 1,000 yards combined in his two-year career and possess the speed and athletic ability that could make him one of the best backs in the MAC. He was also the team’s leading receiver last year with 42 receptions for 311 yards.
Against Penn State in 2016, Rankin rushed for 82 yards on 13 carries.
Mike Carrigan will be one of the top receiving targets this year after putting up 281 yards last year. Joining him in the receiving corps will be Kavious Price, who is dangerous as both a runner and a receiver.
Quarterback will be the biggest question mark, as several guys will enter camp competing for the job. Woody Barrett — a transfer from Auburn — could have the biggest upside, but last year’s backup, Dustin Crum will also be in the mix.
On defense, Kent State will be without top cornerback Demetrius Monday — who led the team with five interceptions. However, top linebacker Jim Jones will be back to lead the defense. Jones recorded a 98 tackles and six sacks last year.
Jones was an All-MAC player last year and is in store for another big season in 2018.
Related Story. Penn State opener with Appalachian State an interesting one. light
Unfortunately for the Golden Flashes, they don’t have enough on defense to slow down the high-powered Penn State offense. The Nittany Lions should be able to do as they wish and pull away with an easy victory.