Penn State Overpowers Wisconsin in Big Ten Matchup
Entering the season, this game was bound to be a #4 against #8 matchup that would decide both Big Ten divisions. Unfortunately, both teams have underperformed this season, entering this matchup both with three losses. This game had no implications for any division titles.
Wisconsin started off strong with an opening drive 71-yard rush touchdown by All-American running back Jonathon Taylor. Other than that play, the Badger offense couldn’t sustain any drives against the stout Penn State defense. On the other hand, the Nittany Lions’ offense was impressive against a good Wisconsin defense. DeAndre Thompkins opened up the scoring in the first quarter with a 14-yard TD catch from QB Trace McSorley. The lone scoring in the second quarter was a one-yard rush touchdown by running back Miles Sanders, Sanders finished with 159 rush yards on 23 carries. Penn State lead at half, 16-7. The second half was a defensive battle with no touchdowns allowed by either team. Again, the Wisconsin offense couldn’t get anything cooking, resulting in the 22-10 loss.
The Badgers offensive struggles had a big part to do with starting quarterback Alex Hornibrook not making the trip to Happy Valley after suffering his second concussion this season. Backup Jack Coan had an awful game, throwing for 60 yards on 9/20 passing, two interceptions and one fumble lost. With the poor quarterback play, the Wisconsin offense becomes one dimensional, limiting Jonathon Taylor’s working space and failing to move the ball down the field. Taylor finished with another 100+ yard game on the ground, his ninth on the season. The sophomore contributed 185 yards rushing with the lone Wisconsin touchdown.
The Penn State defense dominated this game, led by freshman LB Micah Parsons with seven tackles. They harassed the young quarterback, forcing three turnovers from Coan. McSorley had a very solid game, fighting the lingering ankle/leg injury. The senior finished with 160 pass yards on 19/25 with a pass TD. Although McSorley played well, the star of this offense today was by far Miles Sanders. Coming into the season, people questioned who would fulfill Saquon Barkley’s starting running back spot. The answer all season was Sanders, who continued his great play today. Sanders rushed for 159 yards with a touchdown on a very good Wisconsin front seven. Overall, Penn State looked like the team we expected to see all season.
Wisconsin will look to regroup on the road against Purdue.
Penn State will look to continue their success at Rutgers.
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