Penn State fans beg for a new kicker after second miss of the night

After Penn State junior kicker Sander Sahaydak missed his first field goal attempt of the season against West Virginia, he bounced back to go 2-2 and 4-4 on extra points in Week 2 against Bowling Green. That was crucial because, in 2023, he struggled in Week 1 and was benched for Alex Felkins. This year, James Franklin doesn’t seem to have a better option and that’s already becoming a big issue for the Nittany Lions in Week 5 against Illinois. 

Shaydak missed his first attempt in the first half, keeping the game even at 7-7. Then, in the second half, Franklin opted to keep his offense on the field for fourth-and-3 from the Illinois 17-yard line instead of extending his 14-7 lead to two scores. After Julian Fleming was tackled short, the Nittany Lions forced a punt, marched back to the Illinois 23-yard line and Sahaydak missed his second kick of the night. 

Illinois has also missed a field goal tonight, but instead of having a 20-7 cushion, the Penn State defense is clinging to a one-touchdown lead. The Penn State fanbase is ready to move on from Sahaydak because it’s clear he just doesn’t have it. 

Some are even ready to start looking for solutions to Penn State’s kicking problem. I’m sure this fan wouldn’t be the only wone willing to cough up a few bucks. 

Penn State tight end Tyler Warren has been the team’s best offensive player all night, not just catching passes, but playing quarterback and running the ball. Now, it could be time to wonder if the do-it-all star can really, well, do it all. 

Outside of Warren, the Nittany Lions do have other kickers on the roster, including Chase Meyer who they added through the transfer portal this offseason. 

Maybe next time Penn State lines up for a field goal we’ll see Barker or Meyer.