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Penn State Football position grades after back to back wins

By Lawrence Santa Maria

Brandon Smith of Penn State sacks quarterback Johnny Lanngan of Rutgers in the first half during a Big Ten college football match up that saw Penn State defeat Rutgers 23-7 in Piscataway, NJ on December 5, 2020.Big Ten College Football Penn State At Rutgers In Piscataway Nj On December 5 2020
Brandon Smith of Penn State sacks quarterback Johnny Lanngan of Rutgers in the first half during a Big Ten college football match up that saw Penn State defeat Rutgers 23-7 in Piscataway, NJ on December 5, 2020.Big Ten College Football Penn State At Rutgers In Piscataway Nj On December 5 2020 /
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Penn State Nittany Lions linebacker Brandon Smith (Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports) /

Linebackers

Grade: C+

The linebackers have been the most porous group on the defensive side of the ball for the Nittany Lions.

Yes, losing Micah Parsons due to him opting out in August hurt, but after seven games that excuse has run its course, and the play of the backers needs to improve.

Defensive coordinator Brent Pry has nothing but blue chip talent across the board at this position, so their lack of effectiveness is puzzling. On paper, it is a good blend of experience with Ellis Brooks and Jesse Luketa, and talented youth with Brandon Smith and Lance Dixon.

Brooks and Luketa lead the team in tackles, however, this might be the worst tackling Penn State team in James Franklin’s tenure. The Nittany Lions are routinely are exposed when they are in the open field, one-on-one with a ball carrier. One play that comes to mind is in the Michigan game when running back Hassan Haskins broke loose for a 59 yard run when he went untouched right through the heart of the defense. The linebackers seem to constantly take bad angles in the running game.

The play of this group improved in the Rutgers game, as Brooks forced a fumble and redshirt freshman Brandon Smith had an impressive tackle for loss on an end around play where he really showcased his speed and explosiveness.

Smith, a former 5-star recruit, undoubtedly has the highest ceiling of this group and should excite the fan base as he matures physically.

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