Penn State Football 2021: Keys to success on defense

Penn State Football Key #3 – Don’t Get Beat Deep

Far too many times over the past few seasons, this Penn State defense has suffered a few big downfield scores in that really hurt them in certain games.

Think back to the 2019 game at Minnesota, where the Gophers connected on two deep touchdowns early that really sparked their momentum for the rest of the game.

Another example is last season vs Ohio State, when Penn State Football marched down the field and scored a touchdown on their opening drive of the second half to cut it to a one possession game. However, on the next Ohio State drive, Chris Olave got open deep and Justin Fields was able to find him for a touchdown, which immediately swung the momentum back in the Buckeyes’ favor.

Last season, in the Maryland game, the Terps connected on three long first half touchdown through the air, all of at least 35 yards, to build a commanding halftime lead and there was no looking back. Against Michigan State, the Spartans had touchdown passes of 45 and 26 yards and built and early lead. Thankfully, the Nittany Lions adjusted and their offense played well too, to get the win.

This season, Penn State Football needs to limit those home run touchdowns that can really be a gut punch to a team.

Penn State was the beneficiary of that with their 2016 offense, so we know how huge those plays are and how they can change the course of a game.

Last season, Penn State Football was pretty good overall against the pass, however when they did get beat through the air, they got beat bad. Penn State will need to cut down on those deep passing touchdowns this season, both by Brent Pry putting a good game plan together, and the players going out and executing.