Penn State Football: reasons for optimism against Ohio State

Reason for optimism #2 – the newfound passing attack

Last week against Minnesota, we saw the Penn State offense stretch the field vertically more than they have at any point this year. They got the tight ends involved much more, and thanks in part to some improved play calling, Sean Clifford was able to have some success through the air.

In their film breakdown of Penn State vs Minnesota, For The Blogy discussed how the Nittany Lions were able to have success in the vertical passing game last week. They’ll need to continue using a lot of the same concepts this week in order to have success on offense.

The running backs were also utilized much more in the passing game this week, which is a great way for the Nittany Lions to counter Ohio State’s pass rush. Get the ball out quick and into the hands of your playmakers.

Finally, Sean Clifford is coming off of what is likely his best game in quite some time. As someone who’s known for being quite streaky, perhaps last week could be used as a confidence booster and his success can carry over into this week.

If Penn State Football is able to build on last week’s performance in the passing game, they should be able to move the ball and put points up against Ohio State. The Buckeyes don’t have any glaring weaknesses, but if you had to point to one, their secondary might be it.