Penn State Football's key Players vs. Illinois start with Ta'Quan Roberson

Penn State Football’s key Players vs. Illinois start with Ta’Quan Roberson

STATE COLLEGE, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 11: Ta'Quan Roberson #2 of the Penn State Nittany Lions throws a pass for a touchdown against the Ball State Cardinals during the second half at Beaver Stadium on September 11, 2021 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

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On the last play of the game quarterback Noah Vedral of Rutgers is sacked by Dvon Ellies of Penn State 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 /

Penn State Football Defensive Tackle – Dvon Ellies

With the loss of PJ Mustipher, Dvon Ellies’ role along the defensive front has become increasingly important, not only for the entire season, but for this game specifically.

Illinois is by no means a great football team, but their strength is certainly running the football, and they do it well. They average 4.4 yards per carry, which is up there with some of the better rushing teams in the Big Ten.

The Illini are last in the Big Ten in completion percentage and yards per pass attempt, so they will look to run the ball as much as possible.

Being on the interior of the defensive line, Ellies will play a big role as a run-stuffer for the Nittany Lions. Illinois is a solid run-blocking team, and Ellies’ ability to shed blockers and make tackles against the run is crucial.

Finally, the Illini are one of the worst teams in the conference in terms of sacks allowed, so Ellies being able to provide inside pressure on the quarterback will also be important.

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