Penn State Football: key players for the Nittany Lions against the Auburn Tigers

Key player on defense – Tyler Elsdon (MLB)

Building upon the need to stop the run this afternoon, the second level is also going to have to step up and play well.

As one of the biggest concerns for this team heading into the 2022 campaign, the linebacking corps has yet to be tested against a good running team. That all changes today though, as they’ll be tasked with slowing down one of the better running back tandems in college football.

At the weak side backer, Curtis Jacobs has played a lot of football and has shown the ability to be a major difference maker. He’s been somewhat quiet so far this year, but I expect that to change against the Tigers.

As the other starting box linebacker, Tyler Elsdon will have an opportunity to make a big impact on a big stage for Penn State Football.

Elsdon beat Kobe King for the starting middle linebacker roll, and although he led the Nittany Lions in tackles against Ohio, has yet to really flash in the early parts of the season.

He struggled a bit in coverage, mostly against Purdue, but when he can play downhill and fill running lanes, he can have a lot of success.

Penn State will need him to do so against Tank Bigsby and Jarquez Hunter, because they need to be able to contain the run to win this matchup.

In just his third career start, Tyler Elsdon has an opportunity to not only have a breakout performance, but to play a key role in what could be a big road win for the Nittany Lions.