Penn State Football at Wisconsin: Nittany Lions need these players to step up

STATE COLLEGE, PA - DECEMBER 12: Sean Clifford #14 of the Penn State Nittany Lions warms up during the second half of the game against the Michigan State Spartans at Beaver Stadium on December 12, 2020 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
STATE COLLEGE, PA - DECEMBER 12: Sean Clifford #14 of the Penn State Nittany Lions warms up during the second half of the game against the Michigan State Spartans at Beaver Stadium on December 12, 2020 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /
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Penn State Football
Brandon Smith #12 of the Penn State Nittany Lions (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

Penn State Football Key Player on Defense: LB Brandon Smith

Sticking with the theme of “your superstars need to play like superstars”, Brandon Smith will be a big part of this defense having success against the Badgers.

His number one job will be slowing down Jalen Berger and the Wisconsin rushing attack. If Smith can utilize his speed and athleticism to get sideline to sideline and contain the Badger’s running backs, it can force the Wisconsin offense into third and long situations.

Depending on the formation, Smith may also need to assist in shutting down Jake Ferguson, who is an excellent tight end.

Brandon Smith will need to prove his five star potential in this game, and use his speed and athleticism to be all over the field against Wisconsin.