Big Ten week 5 power rankings: The East, including Penn State, is dominating

The Nittany Lions defeated Villanova 38-17 Saturday.

While a 21-point win over an FCS team isn’t exactly the best look, the game was 38-3 when Penn State Football’s starters left the game early in the fourth quarter, the outcome was never in doubt.

Quarterback Sean Clifford had arguably the best game of his career.

Clifford completed 19 of 26 passes for 401 yards, four touchdowns and an interception that really wasn’t his fault. The performance was good enough for Big Ten co-offensive player of the week.

Clifford’s receiver trio of Jahan Dotson, Parker Washington and KeAndre Lambert-Smith look like one of the best pass-catching groups in the country. The problem has been Penn State Football’s run game.

The Nittany Lions racked up just 80 yards rushing on 34 carries on Saturday. A team that wants to run the ball hasn’t been able to yet, even against Villanova.

The defense was great again. The pass rush is often neutralized due to quick passes from the opposition, but the linebackers and defensive backs are making plays, preventing scores. This unit has exceeded expectations in some aspects, they look like a comfortable group that plays well together.

If this team can get the run game going, they have a chance to be the most complete team in the conference.

They’ll have another opportunity to do that, as Indiana comes to town Saturday.