Usually, it's wrong to place too much importance on a single game. But after Michigan, and with our recent track record of usually losing back to back games after a tough loss, its hard NOT to put too much value on the MN game. At home. And a White-Out.
Outcome:
1. We correct most of our problems, limit their RB to 100 or so yards, force T/O's in their passing game, and win impressively.
OR:
2. We win, just barely, and look bad doing it. Turnovers continue to plague us.
OR:
3. We get stopped by the tough MN D, their O gashes us, and we lose.
ANY of the above are IMO realistic options with this enigmatic team.
A certain OC will be licking his chops - with or without his starting QB - to prove CJF wrong.
A certain talented RB will be looking to show that UMs ground romp wasnt a fluke.
The MN team will give us its all - as will their talented coaching staff. After all, they beat us last time. Why not again?
Certainly, CJF & Co., the team, are putting in their best efforts this week, to get back on track, .....while mystified fans will be holding their collective breaths and praying to see some answers on the field ....answers to the same old questions.
Im hoping last weeks loss was to a much better than expected Michigan team, or to a much better coached Michigan team. Maybe both, in what could have been a perfect storm.
Here in the cheap seats, I see our problems as being 1 part talent and 2 parts coaching. Alas, even if Cliff comes back for a 7th year, I dont see him being the solution to our enigma. For better or for worse, its time young Mr Allar gets significant PT, early in the game, and a chance to show his mettle. We desperately need more offensive fire-power, more spark, in the form of a QB who can spread the ball around, and complete more downfield passes/more 50-50 balls. And for PSU coaches to open up the playbook, rather than just try to minimize possible INTs through play selection. Somebody needs to lead this broken team and make it play up to its talent level. On both O and D.
Perhaps the best player on our OL is injured, and the OL has regressed to last years level. IS there a player who can step in and help the run or passing game against a very tough MN D?
Is there a DLman &/or LBer who can effectively plug the middle of our D Line?
There are just sooo many questions to be answered. And I sure hope they are answered on Saturday.
pennstate.rivals.com
