An obligatory look at Michigan State (The Rivalry edition)

About the University

Michigan State University is a public research university in East Lansing, Michigan USA. Founded in 1855, it was the pioneer land-grant institution and served as a model for future land-grant colleges in the United States under the 1862 Morrill Act….February 12, 1855 Michigan Governor Kinsley S. Bingham signed a bill establishing the United States' first agriculture college, the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan…Abraham Lincoln signed the First Morrill Act of 1862, making the Michigan school a national model.

Cool Fact

National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory (NSCL) is located on the campus of Michigan State University and is the leading rare isotope research facility in the United States. Established in 1963, the cyclotron laboratory is the nation's largest nuclear science facility on a university campus.[1] Funded primarily by the National Science Foundation and MSU, the NSCL operates two superconducting cyclotrons. The lab's scientists investigate the properties of rare isotopes and nuclear reactions. In nature, these reactions would take place in stars and exploding stellar environments such as novae and supernovae. The K1200 cyclotron is the highest-energy continuous beam accelerator in the world.

After all that buildup it's rather unimpressive, no?

Football related datum

Current Record: 6 – 5
Last year's Record: 9 – 4: lost to Georgia in the Capital One Bowl

The scary side of things

Time to beat the dead horse!

Special Teams – until the coaches prove they can fix the monumental problems on special teams I'm going to continue to bring this up over and over. Michigan State is the best team in the Big Ten and seventh best in the nation on Kickoff Returns. Be afraid, be very fucking afraid. Keshawn Martin is 5^th in the country averaging 31.71 yards per return. Might want to kick it away from him, but you know, not our coaching staff. I'm putting special teams at the top of the list because I think it's the most important thing to worry about if PSU wants to win Saturday. Don't think special teams are that important, check this out:

And the secret to having a national title contender this year is … excellence on kickoff return?

The six unbeaten teams in Division I-A have navigated the first 11 weeks of the season with different strategies and strengths. But they find common ground in gaining good field position after their opponents score. All six squads rank among the top 20 nationally in kickoff return average, with everybody except Alabama (No. 19) squeezing into the top 10.

Yeah, it's that important.

A four man rush isn't going to cut it – like Indiana Sparty is great at protecting the QB, unlike Indiana, Sparty has an offense to take advantage of it. Michigan State is best in the Big Ten and 18^th in the nation in sacks allowed. Mark my words here's how things will happen Saturday. Bradley will have the team come out in the Bend and Then Break Our Hearts soft zone defense and bring only the four down lineman. Unless Kirk Cousins implodes he will have all the time in the world and will pick apart the middle just like every other decent passing offense has against this atrocious defensive scheme. Like every other game PSU will come out slow and fall behind by oh… 10 or 14 points before the coaching staff decides: "hey… this crappy defensive scheme isn't working, maybe we should try something else." Mark it down, I'll be happy to eat my words later but I've heard this tune before; many, many times before.

Speaking of passing, might want to be worried about that – MSU has the best offense in the Big Ten because they are the best team in passing offense and passing Efficiency. Kirk Cousins leads the Big Ten with a rating of 149.71 and is completing almost 62% of his passes. Blair White and B.J. Cunningham are his main targets and have caught 61 and 44 catches respectively. That's more than anyone on PSU's roster. Cousins has 17 touchdowns and only 5 picks. If Penn State doesn't pressure him it's going to be a looooooonnnnnnnngggggggg day.

The not-so-scary side of things

Passing Defense – Michigan State has to have a lot of offense because their passing defense suuuuucks. Sparty is giving up 245 yards per game and they don't pressure very well coming in 10^th in the conference in tackles for loss. Amazingly they are 2^nd in the conference in sacks so go figure. In fact if you take a quick look at their schedule, the least amount of points given up in Big Ten play has been 14 points, and they gave up 30 or more points to Purdue, Minnesota, and Wisconsin (two of them losses).

Turnover Margin – While Sparty takes care of the ball on offense they really don't force anything on D. They only have five picks all year, less than half of Penn State's total. They've put the ball on the ground 14 times and lost 8 which accounts for most of their turnovers. Penn State may get a chance at a fumble, hopefully they can capitalize.

Game Outlook

Hey its rivalry week bitches!! I'm expecting a high paced, hate filled game! Lots of intensity and both teams playing at high levels, Hell we're playing for the magnificent land grant trophy.

I want it so bad I can taste it!

It's a week like this that makes you feel alive going against your bitter rival.

Beat Michigan SCHHHTTTAAAAAAAATTEEE!!

Ok, that's all bullshit. Honestly after watching Penn State play the last two weeks I'm thinking this is a loss. I expect them to come out flat, not give a shit and play from behind all game long. The defensive coaches will use the same shitacular schemes that have frustrated fans for years and it will get ugly. This game will come down to whether or not Daryll Clark can take this offense on his shoulders and after the game last week don't look for that to happen. Michigan State's leading sack man is Greg Jones which means Sparty likes to blitz and we all know how well Penn State's offensive line handles pressure. The same problems Penn State has been having all season will come back to haunt them in this game: special teams, horrible blocking, and a passive defensive. There's really nothing to play for and I don't expect the team to be ready. Why should I, they weren't ready to play Ohio State at home.

TNL's Prediction

Penn State 21
Michigan State 27

An obligatory look at Ohio State

About the University

The Ohio State University was founded in 1870 as a land-grant university in accordance with the Morrill Act of 1862 under the name of the Ohio Agricultural and Mechanical College. The school was originally situated within a farming community located on the northern edge of Columbus. While some interests in the state had hoped that the new university would focus on matriculating students of various agricultural and mechanical disciplines, Governor Rutherford B. Hayes foresaw a more classic, comprehensive university, and manipulated both the university's location and its initial board of trustees towards that end. Later that year, the university welcomed its first class of 24 students. In 1878, and in light of its expanded focus, the college permanently changed its name to the now-familiar "The Ohio State University" (with the article "The" as part of its official name).

So the "The" is officially part of the name, and you thought it was just arrogance.

Cool Fact

Ohio State's "Buckeye Bullet" electric car broke the world record for the fastest speed by an electric vehicle on October 3, 2004 with a speed of 271.737 mph (437.3 km/h) at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. The vehicle also holds the US record for fastest electric vehicle with a speed of 314.958 mph (506.9 km/h), and peak timed mile speed of 321.834 mph (517.9 km/h). The vehicle was designed, built and managed by a team of engineering students at the university's "Center for Automotive Research-Intelligent Transportation" (CAR-IT).

Football related datum

Current Record: 7 – 2
Last year's Record: 10 – 3: lost to Texas in the Fiesta Bowl

The scary side of things

Sorry, I'm contractually obligated to post this picture

Terrelle Pryor's legs: Pryor leads the team in rushing with 554 yards and 6 touchdowns but in the Buckeyes two losses he was held for a combined 70 yards on 31 carries or just over 2 yards per attempt while being sacked 5 times. Running back Brandon Saine also has 439 yards and Dan Herron leads the team with 6 TD's. Ohio State can run the ball and score coming in 4^th in the conference in rushing offense and 2^nd only to Michigan in scoring.

Defense, defense, defense: Ohio State's recipe for success has been a simple one: play strong defense, control the game and wait for the offense to grind out some points. justaOSU is stingy when they get a lead: the Buckeyes are second in the conference to Penn State in rushing, passing, total, and scoring defense. DL Thaddeus Gibson leads the Buckeyes with 4 sacks and 9.5 TFL and the Buckeyes as a team are 3^rd in the conference with 25 sacks, the offensive line will have their work cut out for them.

The not-so-scary side of things

Terrelle Pryor's arm: while he has improved since last season, TP isn't going to blow teams away throwing the ball. justaOSU is 10^th in the conference and 94^th in the nation in passing offense and that's all on Pryor. When Pryor is on he becomes a multi-dimensional threat that's hard to stop, the thing is, he's seldom on and when you get pressure on him he falls apart fast. While he has thrown 13 TD's he's also thrown 9 picks.

Not so special teams: Normally an injury doesn't make "an obligatory look" but there's a very big one for the Suckeyes. Kicker Aaron Pettrey tore his MCL in the game against New Mexico State.

Pettrey leads the Big Ten in kicker scoring with 8 points per game and has converted 13 of 17 field-goal attempts and 28 of 29 extra-point attempts. He's a weapon from long distance, connecting on 6 of 8 field-goal attempts from beyond 40 yards.

That's a huge loss, one that will affect the offensive game plan. Without its proven long range kicker OSU will probably be going for it if they get inside Penn State territory.

Game Outlook

Earlier in the season I thought the justaOSU game was a definite loss but after watching the shocking Purdue debacle I'm swinging the other way (it's a figure of speech, spare me the jokes). For Ohio State the game plan is the same as it has been all season: control Penn State's offense, force a turnover or two and hope the OSU running game can score a couple times. For Penn State, they have to control the strong defensive line especially in passing downs and hold onto the ball. Pressure Pryor and make him beat them with his arm. For the love of God, please throw away the Bend and then Break Our Hearts defense and bring some controlled pressure, don't let Pryor sit back in the pocket and get comfortable. TP has the propensity to heave the ball in the general direction of the defense without any particular target in mind. When he does, pounce on it.

TNL's Prediction

Penn State 24
justa Ohio State U 14

An obligatory look at Michigan

About the University

The university was founded in 1817 in Detroit as the Catholepistemiad, or University of Michigania, about 20 years before the Michigan Territory officially became a state. The university moved to Ann Arbor in 1837 onto 40 acres of what is now known as Central Campus.

So Michigan (the university) was around before Michigan (the state)?!? You just blew my mind man.

The first classes in Ann Arbor were held in 1841, with six freshmen and a sophomore, taught by two professors. Eleven students graduated in the first commencement in 1845

Little known fact: those fist 7 students formed the school's first football team and won a game. To this day Michigan fans still consider that victory one of their 35 national championships before World War II. True story.

Cool Fact

The University of Michigan's fight song, The Victors, was written by student Louis Elbel in 1898 following the last-minute football victory over the University of Chicago that clinched a league championship. The song was declared by John Philip Sousa as "the greatest college fight song ever written."

You can argue fight songs until you're blue [pun intended] in the face but when John Philip Sousa says your fight song is great, you've got something there.

Football related datum

Current Record: 5 – 2
Last year's Record: 3 – 9 – feel free to snicker if you'd like

The scary side of things

Tate Forcier – DickRod was lacking the kind of quarterback for his spread system that he brought from West Virginia, but he's found one in Forcier. Forcier is more of a pass first spread QB who likes to throw on the run and when he's on, he can light up the scoreboard. For a true freshman Forcier has progressed quicker than a lot of people had anticipated and has already surpassed some of his Big Ten counterparts *cough Pryor cough* at least from a passing perspective. Forcier is completing almost 58% of his passes and is 4^th in the conference in passing efficiency. Michigan is second to Penn State in total offense in the Big Ten and at just over 37 points per game they are first in the conference in scoring.

Rushing attack – I was shocked to see that Michigan leads the conference in rushing. They are averaging 235 yards per game on the ground and yet they don't have a single running back that averages more than 56 yards per game. Carlos Brown leads the team with 336 yards; he and Vincent Smith are averaging over 7.5+ yards per carry, but Michigan does it by committee. 7 running backs have 100 yards or more and 8 have scored touchdowns. Pretty much this entire team is a running machine with interchangeable parts. The same goes for the wideouts, no one receiver stands out but the ball has been spread around to a lot of different options.

Of course what would a Michigan preview be without mentioning interstellar overlord Zoltan Mesko who leads the conference and is 7^th nationally in punting, averaging just over 45 yards per punt? Michigan as a team is 2^nd in the nation in net punting so don't expect anything from the punt return department.

Michigan is 4-0 at home although the only notable victory came against Notre Shame.

The not-so-scary side of things

Tate Forcier – while we can say that Forcier has done an amazing job he still is a true freshman and makes an occasional throw like one (see: OT - Michigan State). In fact good Forcier/bad Forcier really showed in the Michigan State game: he torched Michigan State up and down the field even though he was visibly exhausted only to throw the soul sucking pick in the endzone.

Defense – while Michigan is scoring at will, Will is scoring back; they are giving up over 363 yards and almost 22 points per game on defense. In comparison, PSU is giving up 9. Michigan's front four are 10^th in the conference in sacks and their turnover margin isn't spectacular. The Wolverines don't make a lot happen on defense and the games I've watched they've taken a page out of Penn State's "Bend and then Break our Hearts" defensive playbook.

Game Outlook

I said it last week and I'll say it again, if Penn State plays to their potential they should beat Michigan. Penn State's defense is heads above Michigan's and the offenses are at the very least a push. If Penn State doesn't turn the ball over (that's a big "if") and doesn't go into their road suck-ass conservative offensive they should win. Penn State has not allowed a first half touchdown on defense all season but that changes here. I think, just like last year, Michigan scores early but Penn State pulls away late when the offensive line starts to grind away at Michigan's front four. Time of Possession will be critical in this game if Michigan has the ball a lot more than Penn State it could be a bad sign for the good guys.

Also, did I mention the Big Ten officials suck?!? No? Well there you go.

TNL's Prediction
Penn State 24
DickRod 10

An obligatory look at Minnesota

Ok, the real Minnesota logo…

About the University

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (known locally as the U of M or the U) is a public research university located in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota, United States. It is the oldest and largest part of the University of Minnesota system and has the fourth-largest main campus student body in the United States, with 51,140 students in 2008-2009.

I swear to God I'd bitch-slap anyone in the north that called their school "the U."

Cool Fact

The University developed Gopher, a precursor to the World Wide Web which used hyperlinks to connect documents across computers on the internet. However, the version produced by CERN was favored by the public since it was freely distributed and could more easily handle multimedia webpages.

Ok, I admit not really cool, but cool in a computer geeky kinda way; Hey I'm a software Engineer and did not know this so sue me.

Football related datum

Current Record: 4 – 2
Last year's Record: 7 – 6 – lost to Kansas in the Insight Bowl

The scary side of things

Minnesota's punter Blake Haudan has really been consistent this year and really poses a big threat.

…......

Ok, joking aside we all know what will give Penn State fits but before we get to Mr. Decker there is something brewing in the shadows that we should all be weary of. Minnesota is ranked 1 and 2 in the conference in punt and kick returns, respectively. Penn State's kick coverage MUST play the best game of the year to date if they want to contain the Gophers' damage. The punt return numbers may be a bit misleading because Minnesota has only had 3 returns all season but the kick return team is for real. Troy Stoudermire is 17^th nationally averaging just over 28 yards per return and is second only to Ray Fisher of Indiana in conference. His longest return was 54 yards which means that average (over 20 returns) is legit since he hasn't taken one to the house… yet. Penn State better be prepared. Think of it this way, we know Decker is going to get his catches and may gaff PSU with a long one, but that won't be nearly as bad as a kickoff return for a touchdown. All it takes is one and it completely changes the game. Be very afraid.

That brings us to Mr. Unstoppable. Here is what Joe Paterno had to say about Eric Decker.

Well, you've always got to be aware of the superior wideouts such as Decker. Decker is a great football player. There's a great chemistry with him and the quarterback (Adam Weber). And the quarterback has so much confidence in him, he'll make throws to him that you ordinarily wouldn't make. You've got to know where he is all the time. If you don't, he'll catch seven, eight, 10 passes for a lot of yards and a couple scores.

Decker leads the Big Ten in receptions per game and receiving yards per game and is 7^th and 9^th in the nation. Considering all the pass happy teams out there that's pretty damn impressive. Decker already has 46 receptions on the year; in comparison, PSU's leading receiver (Derek Moye) has 21. Penn State must make someone else beat them.

The not-so-scary side of things

What makes Decker's numbers so impressive is that the Gopher's offense isn't. Minnesota ranks dead last in rushing offense and total offense and no better than 8 in any category. Considering Minnesota throws for only 205 yards per game and Decker catches 115 of that it's hard to see what everyone else is doing. Take Decker off this team and they are in trouble.

Oh by the way, a stat the defensive coaches might want to look at: Minnesota is 10^th in the conference and 93^rd in the nation in allowing sacks. If Penn State's D linemen aren't licking their chops they should be.

Minnesota is giving up over 162 yards per game on the ground and rank 9^th in total defense in conference. Penn State should be able to move the ball.

Game Outlook

The game plan for Penn State should be simple, be VERY careful of the Gophers' special teams, contain Decker as best you can and make someone else beat you. Penn State should be able to move the ball on a defense that isn't so great against the run and doesn't possess the kind of defensive line that makes you lose sleep at night. Minnesota is getting outscored by their opponents by 10 more points in the first quarter: control the ball, get some points early and keep Decker's impact manageable. If Penn State doesn't make the soul-sucking mistakes they made against Iowa, they should win.

TNL's Prediction
Penn State 24
Minnesota 14

An obligatory look at Eastern Illinois

About the University
Eastern Illinois University is a state university located in Charleston, Illinois, United States. Established in 1895 as the Eastern Illinois State Normal School, a teacher's college offering a two-year degree, Eastern Illinois University gradually expanded into a comprehensive university with a broad curriculum, including Baccalaureate and Master's degrees in business, arts, sciences, and humanities.

Cool Fact
This is going to sound very familiar to Penn State fans:

The first building was finished in 1899 and is called Old Main, though it is formally named the Livingston C. Lord Administration Building in honor of EIU's first president… Built of Indiana limestone in a heavy Gothic revival style with turrets, towers, and battlements, its distinctive outline is the official symbol of the school.

They must have feared an attack from rival schools?!?

Football related datum

Current Record: 4 – 1 – Currently ranked #25 in the latest FCS poll
Last year's Record: 5 – 7

The scary side of things

Hi, I'm Jake Christensen. You may remember me from teams such as Iowa!

The bad news for Penn State fans is that Jake played for Iowa so he's used to Big Ten play the good news is he was the QB for Iowa when PSU beat them last. Christensen is ranked 15^th in passing efficiency in the FCS throwing for just over 155 yards per game. EIU has only allowed 2.7 yards per carry in its first five game and they rank highly in most defensive categories including scoring defense (12^th and 1^st in conference) and total defense (15^th and 1^st). Basically this game is a no-win situation for Penn State. However unlikely if they do lose it's of the Appy State-Michigan variety with an impact that would shake College football's very core… and I would finally make the leap from weekend warrior to full-time-barely-functioning alcoholic. Win by a small margin and it just looks really bad. Win by a lot and everyone shrugs it off because that's how it should go. Get a serious injury to someone, it's Armageddon.

The not-so-scary side of things

Really, let's all just face facts here, it's a FCS school, albeit a ranked and decent one, there is no excuse for an 'L' for Penn State. The Nittany Lions will most likely have better athletes across the board and should win easily. EIU lost their best running back and wide receiver to graduation and even with Christensen Penn State should be able to handle anything the offense throws at them.

Game Outlook

Hopefully Penn State uses this as a chance to get playing time for their second team, specifically Kevin Newsome who, Joe admitted in his weekly press conference, hasn't got enough game experience. Look for Penn State to stick to basics and keep things simple. They'll probably try to establish the run game early and get the offensive line off to a good start. I don't expect the game to be close at half let alone the end of the game.

TNL's Prediction
Penn State 45
Eastern Illinois 6

An obligatory look at Iowa

About the University

The University of Iowa was originally named The State University of Iowa, and this remains the institution's legal name. The State University of Iowa was founded February 25, 1847 as Iowa's first public institution of higher learning, only 59 days after Iowa became a state. Despite its legal name, it is not to be confused with Iowa State University.

No wonder there is such animosity between Iowa and Iowa State… I mean THE State University of Iowa and Iowa State Universi… my head hurts.

Cool Fact

The University of Iowa is also the home to the National Advanced Driving Simulator (a virtual reality driving simulator.)

That's right people, Iowa is home to NADS (their acronym, not mine) and boy are they proud of their NADS.

That's some impressive NADS.

Football related datum
Current Record: 3 – 0
Last year's Record: 9 – 4 – Destroyed South Carolina in the Outback Bowl (31-10)

… and lest we forget:

The scary side of things

Where to start? Their defense is very good. Sophomore SS Tyler Sash leads the conference and is tied for 3^rd nationally with 4 interceptions already. In fact Iowa is best in the conference in Pass Defense and Pass Efficiency Defense (and 11^th nationally). The back seven were supposed to be the strength of this defense and for the most part that has played out, especially the secondary. The aforementioned Sash and his counterpart FS Brett Greenwood lead the team in tackles with 14 and 12 respectively. Corner Amari Spievey also has chipped in with 12 tackles. When your three leading tacklers are in the secondary it's usually a sign of poor linebacker play but that's not the case with Iowa. The Hawkeyes have three returning starters in A.J. Edds, Jeremiha Hunter, and returning All-Conference and All-Name Pat Angerer-ererer. The linebackers haven't got things going yet but don't kid yourself they are as good as anyone in the Big Ten.

The offense, at least on paper, doesn't strike fear for defensive coordinators but they are a typical Iowa team with big corn-fed offensive lineman led by Bryan Bulaga who missed the last two games with an undisclosed illness* PSU might get a break because Bulaga and starting WR Derrell Johnson-Koulianos are not currently listed on the depth chart but coach Ferentz said "there's a chance" they could play. QB Ricky Stanzi is solid completing 60% of his passes with a 5-3 TD-INT ratio. Against Penn State we'll probably see a ball control, let's not make a mistake on the road kind of offense from Iowa, especially if Sean Lee can't go.

Punter Ryan Donahue averages almost 45 yards per punt and Iowa is 1^st in the conference in net punting. Unlike Penn State they know how to cover punts. Kicker Daniel Murray has only attempted 4 field goals but has made good on all but one forgivable 48 yard attempt.

The not-so-scary side of things

Shonn Greene left for the NFL early and took with him a lot of the Iowa offense. The Hawkeyes are led in rushing by someone named Adam Robinson who's rushed for 237 yards and 2 TD's. TE Tony Moeaki is tied for the lead in receptions but he may be out Saturday.

Iowa lost two big cogs in last year's defense when Mitch King and Matt Kroul graduated and no one has stepped up to fill their shoes. DL Karl Klug leads the team with 3.5 TFL and 2 sacks but the team as a whole has only had 4 sacks total. Iowa's rushing defense is in the bottom of the Big Ten. Like Penn State, the return teams are nothing to write home about.

Game Outlook

Granted we know nothing about Penn State yet so this game could go any way. Look for Iowa to soften up the middle of the defense early especially if Lee can't go. In a late game start with a hostile crowd with revenge on their minds, I'm sure Ferentz won't take chances early. If Iowa can establish the run with their big offensive line the play action pass will be open later and Stanzi's good enough to pick PSU's secondary apart. Penn State will probably try to do the same thing. Establish the run and use play action and roll-outs with Clark moving the pocket to take pressure off because Iowa will most likely blitz and force Clark to beat them, with that great secondary I know I would.

TNL's Prediction

When I first looked at this game I thought Penn State had a bad matchup but now that I look at these two teams it's really close. Penn State actually matches up well against Iowa. Neither team is going to win with special teams and both teams have great punters and strong defenses capable of playing the field-position game. Last year I was skeptical about the Iowa game but this year I feel a little better. Penn State has the revenge factor and crowd on their side, I expect it to be a hard fought game but I think Penn State pulls it out in the end.

Penn State 21
Iowa 15

*we'll just assume its herpes

An obligatory look at Syracuse

About the University

Syracuse University is a private research university located in Syracuse, New York. It was founded as a university in 1870, but its roots can be traced back to a seminary founded by the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1832 which eventually became Genesee College.

Beer and Methodists, woo hoo!!

Since 1920, the university has identified itself as nonsectarian.[8] Syracuse was elected to the Association of American Universities in 1966.

Cool Fact

In July, 2008, Syracuse University became the owner of the second largest collection of 78 rpm records in the United States after the Library of Congress after a donation of more than 200,000 records. The donation is valued at $1 million and more than doubles the University's collection of 78 rpm records to about 400,000.

So yeah, if you like miss that Gramophone recording of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite stop by Syracuse, they probably have it.

Football related datum

Current Record: 0 – 1
Lost at home to Minnesota 23-20
Last year's Record: 3 – 9
Beat Notre Dame *snicker* and lost to Akron 42-28 (food for thought)

The scary side of things

Check out Greg Paulus' stats:

Paulus led the Atlantic Coast Conference in assist to turnover ratio during the 2007–08 season, and shot over 42 percent from beyond the arc on his way to making 82 three point field goals.

Oh wait, this is football. Never mind.

Seriously, Paulus had a decent start to the season completing 19 of 31 passes for 167 yards with 1 touchdown. Not bad for a guy that hasn't played football since 2004. In fact Paulus led the Orange to 20 first half points taking advantage of a shell shocked Minnesota defense. To put that in perspective, the Orange scored 20 or more points only 8 times in the last four years.

The running backs are deep with erstwhile Ohio Mr. Football Delone Carter leading the way. Antwon Bailey gives the orange a very solid second option. You may remember Bailey from such games as Notre Dame 2008 where he rushed for 126 yards in the upset of the Irish. Bailey averaged 6.2 yards per carry in the Minnesota loss while Carter racked up 88 yards with a touchdown.

This may sound weird but Syracuse actually has a wide receiver talented enough to draw double teams, just ask the Gophers who were torched by Mike Williams for 94 yards and a touchdown. In fact seven different receivers caught passes with four catching at least 2 or more in the first game.

Also worth mentioning is running back Michael Jones who returned 5 kickoffs for an average of just over 30 with a 79 yarder. Speaking of special teams, punter Rob Long averaged 45.9 yards over 8 punts against the Gophers and 43.9 over the 2008 season (and you know he was punting a LOT).

The not-so-scary side of things

While the offense looked menacing in the first half against the Gophers they disappeared in the second half not converting one third down or scoring any points. The offensive line is rebuilt worse than a 69 Dodge Dart although they kept things together against the Gophers. Paulus' had a fine debut but it was soiled by the back-breaking interception in OT that led to the Orange's demise.

The defense is, well pathetic.

While the offense may have some weapons of the frightening sort the defense is 'retooling'. That's a nice word for saying Craptacular. How you retool a defense that was ranked 100 or worse in rushing, scoring, and total defense and sacks is beyond me.

Game Outlook

Look for the no-huddle offense to give fits to the rebuilt Penn State secondary but the defensive coaches will make the adjustments. The thing about a no-huddle offense is, they can score quick but the can also turn the ball over quick and put a "retooled" defense back on the field in a hurry. The offensive line, which seems to be an eternal problem with Syracuse, will probably show its true colors against the likes of Ogbu and Odrick. The Syracuse defense, which is supposed to be more aggressive under the new staff, will probably take a page out of Akron's book and force Clark to throw by loading up and blitzing. Clark will probably have a big day again but I think we will see the running game take shape this week as the coaches will probably try to wear down the Cuse D.

TNL's Prediction

Penn State 38
Syracuse 10

An obligatory look at Akron

"An Obligatory look" is back for the third year and I think I'm gonna retool it a bit. Just a new coat of wax, some polish and a couple other accoutrements to make the old girl a little more attractive. With that, onward…
About the University

The University of Akron is a public university located in Akron, Ohio. It was founded in 1870 as a small college affiliated with the Universalist Church. In 1913 ownership was transferred to the City of Akron. In 1967 the university became a state institution. The University of Akron is regarded as a world leader in polymer research.

Cool Fact

University of Akron Professor of Polymer Engineering and Applied Mathematics Dr. Arkadii Leonov has come up with a novel means to stop a hurricane. The concept, under patent application and titled "Hurricane Suppression by Supersonic Boom," reveals that hurricanes can be destabilized with the ultrasonic boom produced by jet fighters. Leonov explains that jets, flying at supersonic speeds clockwise around an eye of a hurricane, would suppress the storm.

Well… fighter jets sure, but where's superman when you need him, he can create a sonic boom and Hurricanes are inherently evil so… artist's rendition please:

Problem solved

Football related datum

Current Record: 0 – 0
Last year's Record: 5 – 7
Number of returning starters: 14 (9 Off – 5 Def)

The scary side of things

Senior QB Chris Jacquemain threw for 2,748 yards and 20 TDs completing 57.9 percent. He's a three year starter and has four of his top five targets back including All-MAC receivers Andre Jones and Deryn Bowser. Bowser led the team with 64 receptions for 785 yards and 4 touchdowns. Experienced QB and WR combination vs. green secondary without best corner = bad news.

Gone is 1,000-yard rusher Dennis Kennedy but there won't be much drop-off thanks to talented redshirt freshman DeVoe Torrence who originally signed to play with Ohio State before deciding on the Zips. Yes that THE Ohio State. Torrence was rated 64th nationally in the ESPN 150 list in 2007.

Akron ranked 46^th or better in all offensive statistical categories and scored 30 points per game to rank 30^th in 2008. They averaged just under 400 yards per game and were very balanced coming in ranked 45^th and 46^th nationally in rushing and passing. With a new running back and Penn State's secondary woes though, look for Akron to "zip" (har har) the ball around all day.

Both kickers are back but neither are much to speak of. Punter John Stec did average 37.1 yards per punt last season.

As scary as…
A bump in the night – the kind of strange noise that wakes you up. Yeah it's a bit unnerving, but it's probably just nothing so just go back to sleep and wake me up when it's the end of September.

The not-so-scary side of things

Akron's 2008 defense was horrid. They ranked around the century mark in Scoring (31 pts.), rushing (187 yards) and Total (387 yards). They were a slightly more respectable 61^st against the pass but I suspect that most teams rammed the ball down their throats and didn't need to pass.

Akron plays a 3-3-5 scheme led by linebacker Mike Thomas whose 85 tackles in 2008 is the best among the Zips returning defenders. Lineman Almando Sewell anchors the line and had 14 tackles for loss a season ago. CB Miguel Graham leads the secondary and had 70 tackles and 3 interceptions in 2008 while safeties Jalil Carter and Wayne Cobram also return.

Game Outlook

Look for Akron to pass first (their strength) and test the fresh secondary (PSU's weakness) early. Unless the defensive line gets pressure early and often the Zips will have success passing the ball. Running the ball against the teeth of PSU's D with three new starters on the Akron offensive line ain't gonna happen but I think Akron will move the ball and score. On the flip side, PSU will test a defense that had trouble stopping the run and get Royster and the new offensive going before adding in some basic pass plays. I have a sneaky suspicion that Andrew Quarless will have a much more expanded roll this year, at least until the wide receivers get some game experience. Quarless has the most experience of any of the receivers and he's a senior, Joe's gonna get him the ball.

TNL's Prediction

Penn State 45
Akron 17

Spring has finally arrived

Spring football that is, because it certainly doesn't feel like spring around here.

If I wake up to one more day of 20 degrees I'm moving to Jamaica

At least we can all rejoice in knowing that the annual meaningless intra-squad spring football game is right around the corner. Dig out the tailgating supplies because we have to practice too, those drinking skills aren't going to stay sharp on their own, pal!

Actually this year there's quite a lot of questions that need answered, maybe more so than any year in recent memory. First off let's look at the depth chart (HT:BSD):

OFFENSE
WR: Brett Brackett, JR ; Chaz Powell, SO
LT: DeOn'tae Pannell, SO; Nerraw McCormack, SR
LG: JohnnieTroutman, SO; Quinn Barham, SO
C: Stefen Wisniewski, JR; Doug Klopacz, JR
RG: Lou Eliades, JR; J.B. Walton, SO
RT: Dennis Landolt, SR; Ako Poti, SR
TE: Mickey Shuler, SR; Andrew Quarless, SR
WR: Graham Zug, JR; Derek Moye, SO
QB: Daryll Clark, SR: Kevin Newsome, FR
FB: Joe Suhey, SO; Larry Federoff, SR
TB: Evan Royster, JR; Brandon Beachum, SO

DEFENSE
LE: Jack Crawford, SO; x-Jerome Hayes, SR
LT: Jared Odrick, SR; Abe Koroma, JR
RT: Ollie Ogbu, JR; Devon Still, SO
RE: Kevion Latham, SO; Eric Latimore, SO
OLB: Nathan Stupar, SO; Michael Mauti, SO
ILB: x-Sean Lee, SR; Josh Hull, SR
OLB: Navorro Bowman, JR; Bani Gbadyu, JR
LCB: D'Anton Lynn, SO; Knowledge Timmons, SR
RCB: A.J. Wallace, SR; Devin Fentress, SR
FS: Drew Astorino, SO; Cedric Jeffries, JR
SS: Andrew Dailey, SO; Nick Sukay, SO.

SPECIALISTS
PUNTER: Jeremy Boone, SR; Ryan Breen, SO
KICKER: Collin Wagner, JR; Anthony Fera, FR
x-limited action in spring drills

Of course Sean Lee and Jerome Hayes will be held out of contact and the Blue-White game for precautionary reasons so that will open up the competition at Defensive End where Penn State must replace Aaron Maybin, Maurice Evans, and Josh Gaines. While the inside guys look tough with Ogbu, Odrick, Koroma, and Still, the outside guys will be new and currently the buzz is around Sophomore Jack Crawford but someone has to step up and fill some big shoes.

Speaking of big shoes, gone is Penn State's most prolific trio of wide receivers in school history and the current roster doesn't hold anyone with substantial game experience or big play capability. While the starting lineup come fall will probably contain some combination of the four listed above we'll probably see a true freshman getting lots of playing time. Incoming wunderkind Justin Brown has the combination of size (6'3") and speed (4.4 in the 40) that the Spread HD needs.

The next area of fear is in the secondary where all four starters are gone. You may remember those four starters from such games as USC where they were methodically burned at the stake by the Trojans offense. Those guys are gone and that makes one wonder, are the guys replacing them going to do a better job or are we going to see more of the same? There is potential and Drew Astorino and A.J. Wallace return with lots of experience but the other two spots will be filled buy some green players. Wallace has never lived up to his huge potential, at least in the secondary, and this is his last year to set his legacy.

With the move of Shipley to center that leaves two holes at both guards and one gigantic hole at left tackle where sophomore DeOn'tae Pannell steps in and must mature quickly because he will have the unenviable task of protecting Daryll Clark's blind side. If Clark goes down there's only incoming freshman Kevin Newsome and not much else. Luckily Newsome enrolled early and will be with the team for spring practice but he will need to be a quick study because Penn State is woefully thin at quarterback.

There are still other positions to consider: who will replace Kevin Kelly and who becomes "the other guy" opposite Lee and death missile Navorro Bowman. With ankle surgery sidelining Stephfon Green Brandon Beachum gets a huge opportunity as Royster's backup for the spring. Will he step up and steal some playing time?

While it is only a glorified scrimmage there are a lot of questions to answer this spring and a lot of holes to fill. The building blocks are there, the combination of lee and Bowman is as good as any in the big ten, but will Penn State be able to fill in around them and quarterback Clark?

An obligatory look at Indiana

Ok, I admit it, I may have gone overboard just a tad the other day but you have to understand that this loss has cut deep. The last time I felt this bad about a Penn State loss was the 1989 'desperation' blocked field goal game against Alabama (by the way I still say to this day that Blair Thomas was in the endzone before they attempted that kick). Not even any of the nine Michigan losses hurt as bad as this loss did. I'm still ticked and I'm still hurt but I guess the only thing to do is move on and try to forget about it, although that's totally impossible, that's like trying to forget the last chick that broke your heart, the pain just doesn't go away for a while. I think I need a hug. It's funny though I try to entice a response from you the reader (that's why I have this blog) in a lot that I do and it took a lunatic driven rant to get people to say something. Anywho… mistakes were made, I was wrong, let's move on.

Before we look ahead to Indiana we need to discuss the issues at hand with this team. The most important thing that needs correcting is Daryll Clark. It's been two bad games in a row for him. Now, one could speculate that the concussion is still bothering him, heck the coaches used D.W. in running situations last week to try and limit the number of hits Clark would take, but he says that everything is fine.

Asked if the effects of the concussion had any impact on his play, Clark said: "No, not at all. As I said to someone after the game, I felt like I was ready to play."

So if it's not his noggin then something else is wrong because 9 for 23 passing isn't going to cut it. Either the coaches have to start keeping guys in to help protect him and give him more time to throw or maybe it's time for Devlin to see some meaningful playing time.

I stand by my thoughts on the wide receivers, if they don't drop those balls Penn State wins. I will give Norwood the benefit of the doubt but it's high time Andrew Quarless hits the bench, not only did he drop passes but his blocking was somewhere around horrific.

Let's just all admit that the defense is suspect. There are holes in this team specifically up the middle, and the coaches love to run the bend and then break our hearts defensive scheme at the end of close games. Luckily Indiana doesn't pose a potent threat on offense and I like their chances against Javon Ringer more than I did against Shonn Greene. Let's hope that this team comes out with the attitude that they have something to prove and play with a chip on their shoulders. Now for the Hoosiers.

Offense

Penn State won't know if they will face quarterback Ben Chappell who was knocked out of the Wisconsin game or Kellen Lewis who has a nagging ankle injury. Lewis was the team's entire offense early in the year leading the team in passing and rushing but since has been surpassed in both categories by Chappell and Marcus Thigpen. Thigpen has a respectable 6.7 yards per carry average but has only rushed the ball more than 9 times in a game once. The Hoosiers are averaging 16.5 points in six Big Ten games, which ranks 105th in the nation.

Defense

Then there's the defense. The 38.7 points per game they've given up in conference play rank 106th. They rank 100 or worse in pass efficiency defense, total defense, and scoring defense for the year. If Penn State can't rack up 35 points on these guys there's something wrong. Defensive lineman Jammie Kirlew is second in the Big Ten with 6 sacks but this team doesn't force too many turnovers. Penn State is still 9^th in the nation in points scored, just sayin'.

Special Teams

Punter Chris Hagerup (now there's a punter's name) is averaging 42.57 yards per punt and trust me he's had a lot of practice punting (49 attempts). RB Demetrius McCray is second in the Big Ten and 30^th in the nation in kickoff returns, so the kick team will have to be on their toes. Kicker Austin Starr (who is bound to end up a Dallas Cowboy if there is a God) is only 9 of 16 on field goals but consider that 4 of those misses were from 40+ yards out.

Game Outlook

One of two things is going to happen in this game, Penn State is going to come out flat go through the motions and make the game much closer than the fans want, or they will come out pissed off and steamroll Indiana. Clark has got to get himself back on track both physically and mentally and the Hosiers are just the team to do it against. Look for Penn State to win by at least 3 touchdowns.

TNL's Prediction
Penn State 45
Indiana 10

An obligatory look at: Iowa

Not that Hawkeye, this Hawkeye

Schedule/Results
Overall (5-4)
Maine - W (46-3)
Florida International - W (42-0)
Iowa State - W (17-5)
Pittsburgh - L (21-20)
Northwestern - L (22-17)
Michigan State - L (16-13)
Indiana - W (45-9)
Wisconsin - W (38-16)
Illinois - L (27-2)

Team Overview

It's hard to get a feel for this Iowa team I felt they were playing their best coming into the Illinois game last week and then they go out and lay and egg against the Fighting Zookers. I still think this is a very good football team that could easily beat Penn State if they don't bring their 'A' game. Iowa has won all their games by double digits and lost all four of their games by a combined 12 points, so the very apparent conclusion is: *drum roll* they can't win close games *cymbal crash*. Yeah I know I'm the master of the obvious.

Offense

This offense is much like the offense Penn State faced last game, it all revolves around the running game. Iowa running back Shonn Greene is having a breakout year and is 2^nd to only Javon Ringer in the Big Ten averaging just over 139 yards per game, which puts him 3^rd nationally by the way. Unlike Ringer though, Greene has done it with far fewer carries averaging 6.3 yards per carry. Illinois was able to bottle Greene up until the fourth quarter last week but they couldn't stop him as he rushed for 103 yards giving him over 100 yards every game this season.

The difference between Iowa and Ohio State though is at quarterback, Ricky Stanzi isn't going to beat anyone with his legs. While Stanzi is a notch above Terrelle Pryor in the throwing department he's had his moments of sporadicism (yeah it's not a word but I'm making it one). Penn State will not be able to go all out against the run and just worry about covering the main receiver like they did against Pryor, Stanzi's a little more seasoned than that. The good news for the Penn State defense is that in the Illinois game, Stanzi was sacked six times and fumbled on one which was scooped up and turned into a touchdown. In fact Iowa gives up 1.56 sacks per game which is 10^th in the Big Ten and 83^rd in the country. Paging Aaron Maybin, your table is set.

Defense

Penn State is not going to rip off 40 points against these guys their defense is close to Ohio State's ranking no worse than 3^rd in Conference in every defense category. Illinois was only the 2^nd team to score more than three touchdowns against the Hawkeyes.

Linebacker Pat Angerer leads the team in tackles (71 total, 29 solo) and interceptions with 4. D lineman Mitch King is also a force to reckon with leading the team in tackles-for-loss with 11 and sacks with 3. Penn State will need to have one of their best offensive performances if they want to control the game. The chink in the armor appears to be their secondary, the Hawkeyes have given up at least 250 yards passing in the last two games.

Special Teams

Punter Ryan Donahue is solid at 41.38 yards per game if not spectacular and kicker Trent Mossbrucker is 13-15 but has yet to try a kick over 40 yards. Backup kicker Daniel Murray appears to have the better leg as he has handled kickoff duties and done a good job collecting 15 touchbacks. Punt returner Andy Brodell is dangerous ranking 3^rd in the Big Ten with an 81 yard touchdown return. The kick return team is meehhhh; the longest return is 40.

Game Outlook

A week ago I was really worried about this game but after watching them lose to Illinois I'm feeling a little better. The Fighting Zookers led the entire game until Iowa tied it up late in the 4^thand Iowa had great field position in the first half. I don't think Penn State will be able to pound the ball early they will have to take some shots down the field and make the Iowa defense respect the pass. On defense it's Ohio State take two: limit Greene and make Stanzi beat you. With Penn State's defensive line they should be able to get pressure without the need of a blitz so the linebackers can worry about Greene. I think the game will be close early but Iowa wears down in the second half.

TNL's Prediction
PSU 27
Iowa 14

An obligatory look at Ohio State

Schedule/Results
Overall (7-1)
Youngstown State - W (43-0)
Ohio - W (26-14)
No. 1 USC - L (35-3)
Troy - W (28-10)
Minnesota - W (34-21)
No. 18 Wisconsin - W (20-17)
Purdue - W (16-3)
No. 20 Michigan State - W (45-7)

Team Overview

Ohio State has won 12 out of its last 13 conference home games against ranked opponents and Penn State has not won in Columbus since 1978. The Lions have also lost 10 straight on the road to AP Top 25 opponents two of those were to Ohio State. After getting throttled by USC on the road without Beanie Wells the Buckeyes have won five straight and are coming off an impressive 45-7 killing of Michigan State, a game in which they forced five turnovers.

Offense

This team is built to run the ball. With a strong defense to hold teams at bay they can pound you into submission. Beanie Wells and Terrelle Pryor have combined for over 1,000 yards rushing and Wells is just getting back to midseason form after the injury early in the season. Want further evidence OSU relies on the ground game: Pryor has yet to throw for more than 144 yards in a game. Terrelle is completing 65% of his passes and has only thrown 2 interceptions compared to 6 touchdowns which is very impressive for a true freshman. The Buckeyes best wide receiver is Brian Robiskie who leads the team with 5 of the team's 9 touchdowns but with the low number of passes not one wide receiver has more than 300 yards for the year.

Defense

Ohio State is the league's second best defense against the pass and best against the run. In total yardage they rank second and they are third in scoring D. In a word they are good. They are led by universally overhyped linebacker James Laurinaitis who has 75 tackles on the season… no wait make that 78 he just got credited with 3 more assists from Saturday. Actually, outside linebacker and 5^th-year senior (hasn't he been there like 10 years now?) Marcus Freeman is much more explosive. Doctor Freeman has more sacks and more TFL (he leads the team in both categories) than Laurinaitis as does outside linebacker Ross Homan the guy opposite Doc Freeman. Corner Malcolm Jenkins is one of the best in the Big Ten and is forth on the team in tackles.

Special Teams

As expected from a top ten team Ohio State is very solid in the special teams department. Punter A.J. Trapasso is 3^rd in the Big Ten averaging almost 43 yards per punt and WR Ray Small leads the Big Ten in punt returns averaging 14 yards per. Kicker Ryan Pretorius is solid if not spectacular connecting on 76 percent of his attempts and hasn't missed from inside the 30. The one glaring hole for the Buckeyes is kickoff returns where they rank dead last in the Big Ten.

Game Outlook

With all the history going against Penn State it's hard to pick them in this game. It's an 8:00 PM kickoff and Ohio State is coming off the best game of their season. For Penn State to win they will have to sell out against the run and make Pryor beat them with his arm. It won't be easy, if you focus too much on Wells up the middle Pryor will beat you to the outside. If you focus too much on stopping Pryor they'll pound you with Beanie. If Penn State comes out and plays like they did against Michigan they will get crushed. Having said all that I'm sticking with the hopeless optimist in me and predicting a win.

TNL's Prediction
PSU 24
Ohio State 21

An Obligatory look at Michigan

Schedule/Results

Overall (2-4)
Utah – L (25-23)
Miami (of the Ohio variety) – W (16-6)
Notre Dame – L (35-17)
No. 9 Wisconsin – W (27-25)
Illinois – L (45-20)
Toledo – L (13-10)

Team Overview

Penn State has lost nine in a row to Michigan over the last 12 years. The Wolverines have won six of their last seven road games against ranked opponents. Penn State hasn't beaten Michigan in State College since 1995.

That's about all the good news for Michigan.

Offense

Michigan is dead last in the Big Ten in scoring and total offense and they are 100 and 109^th in the nation in those categories. They rank 10^th in passing offense and 9^th in rushing offense. Their top quarterback Steven Threet, who happens to be their second best runner, may not play Saturday along with backup running back Brandon Minor. Oh by the way Penn State ranks 1^st in the Big Ten in rushing, pass efficiency, and total defense.

Running back Sam McGuffie leads the team in rushing with 424 yards with a pedestrian 3.9 yards per carry. Wideout Martavious Odoms leads the team in receiving and was banged up but will be playing Saturday. Michigan's Achilles heel this season has been turnovers where they rank a statistical worst in turnover margin in college football.

Defense

The defense isn't that bad coming in 3^rd in the conference and 21^st overall but Juice Williams really exploited the Michigan defense. They are 5^th in the conference in sacks and 3^rd in Tackles for loss so the definitely have playmakers.

Middle Linebacker Obi Ezeh leads the team with 56 tackles and 6.0 TFL. D end Brandon Graham does most of the damage; he is tied for second in the league with 5 sacks and leads the league (and the nation) in tackles for loss with 10.5 (2.10 per game) and he missed the Toledo game. Needless to say, the offense will have to know his whereabouts at all times. Outside of those two the statistics don't tell much. Michigan only has 5 ints on the year and 6 fumble recoveries.

Special Teams

There is one bright spot for this Michigan team, the supreme overlord Zoltan Mesko leads the conference in punting averaging 45.23 yards per punt, good enough for 8^th in the country.

artists rendering

Kicker K.C. Lopata is 4 of 7 on field goals putting him dead last in the Big Ten. He also missed at chip shot 26 yarder as time expired against Toledo that would have sent it into overtime.

The return team? I'll save you the time – their longest return, punt or kick, is 36 yards.

Game Outlook

The only thing going for Michigan in this game is the past (well that and great punting) but as I said previously, I don't think the past has anything to do with this Penn State team. Paterno said we should forget the Toledo game but it's hard to ignore when a 1-4 MAC team beats Michigan. Simply put this team isn't good and there is absolutely no excuse for Penn State to lose this game; none. Penn State has a better offense, defense, and special teams (except for Mesko). Sure Michigan mustered a great game against Wisconsin but don't forget they were down 19-0 at the end of the 3^rd quarter in that game and Wisconsin went to sleep defensively. That won't happen Saturday, if the Nittany Lions are up they will keep the hand on the throttle just like they did against the Badgers. I don't expect this one to be close.

TNL's Prediction

A Mauling. Ok, if I have to enumerate the destruction I'll say the following:
PSU 42
Michigan 10

An obligatory look at Wisconsin

Schedule/Results
Overall (3-2)
Akron - W (38-17)
Marshall - W (51-14)
No. 21 Fresno State - W (13-10)
Michigan - L (27-25)
No. 14 Ohio State - L (20-17)

Team Overview

This wasn't exactly the matchup everyone had envisioned when the season started. Many "experts" picked Wisconsin to finish third in the Big Ten and be the one team that seriously threatened Ohio State for the Big Ten title. At the very least, many thought Wisconsin would come into this game with only one blemish but then came back to back 4^th quarter debacles and Wisconsin is just trying to avoid a three game losing streak. They allowed a long scoring drive late in the game against Ohio State and an implausible 19-0 lead slip away against Michigan. Now questions abound about this Badger team especially concerning quarterback Allan Evridge.

"The part that Allan has to improve on more than anything is his accuracy as a passer," [Head Coach Bret] Bielema said of the left-handed quarterback. "The bottom line is that we have to expect the ball to be delivered with better accuracy. … He has to see a clearer picture of what we're trying to get done."

Offense

The offense starts and ends with running back P.J. Hill, the thing is, teams have figured that out. Hill does rank 4^th in the conference and 23 nationally in rushing but he's averaging 4.7 yards per carry, easily the worst of his career. In Wisconsin's two loses, Hill averaged a measly 3.5 yards per carry and didn't come close to cracking the century mark. That puts the pressure on the aforesaid Allan Evridge and he hasn't responded well completing only 53.2 percent of his passes in the same two games. It ain't rocket science, stuff the line, force Evridge to beat you and if he does, tip your hat to him.

Defense

The defense has played well for the Badgers in 4 out of their five games they've allowed 20 or fewer points with the lone exception being the Michigan game where they fell asleep for a quarter. They rank 4^th in the conference in total and pass defense. They are a bit vulnerable against the run giving up just under 124 yards per game which puts them at 7^th. The red flag on this defense is the lack of pressure they generate; they're 8^th in sacks and 7^th in TFL.

inebacker Jaeve McFadden leads the team and is 4^th in the Big Ten with 44 tackles 2.5 for loss. The Badgers have 7 interceptions as a team with cornerback Niles Brinkley and Safety Shane Carter leading the team each with 2. Their best sack man is left end O'Brien Schofield with 3 but, again, that isn't anything special, in comparison, Penn State has three guys with at least 3 sacks.

Special Teams

Putting and kickoff returns good, punt returns bad. Wisconsin is dead last in the conference returning punts. Punter Brad Nortman is 4^th in the conference averaging 42 yards per punt but he's pretty accurate placing 7 inside the 20 with only 1 touchback. Kicker Philip Welch is equally as solid connecting on 9 of 11 field goals, none of which came inside the 20 and his only miss was from 50. He is a little weak on kickoffs with only 1 touchback. WR David Gilreath is 4^th in the conference in kick returns averaging 27 yards per return.

Game Outlook

Despite their recent problems, Wisconsin is an all-around solid team and it's an 8 PM start. Penn State has only won once at Camp Randall and their last trip the offense forgot to show up and Paterno left on a golf cart with a leg injury. It's no secret what the Badgers will do but what will Paterno do? Will he come out guns a-blazin'? Penn State doesn't have to try and score 50 points to win they just have to get at least a 10 point lead and make Wisconsin come from behind because their offense isn't built to do that. The 2008 optimistic PSU fan in me wants to believe that Penn State will come out throw some wrinkles at Wisconsin that they've never seen and get a lead but I just can't get over the pessimist in me. I'm worried we'll see the same road-conservative play approach we saw at Purdue last week and just about every road game last year. If Penn State comes out and tries to out-Wisconsin Wisconsin by running the ball and playing bend-but-don't-break defense the will lose. But screw all that I'm tempting fate and going with Mr. Optimism.

TNL's Prediction
PSU 24
Wisconsin 17

An obligatory look at Illinois

Schedule/Results
Overall (2-1)
Missouri – L (52-42)
Eastern Illinois – W (47-21)
La. Lafayette – W (20-17)

Team Overview

Gone to the Steelers in the first round of the NFL draft was running back Rashard Mendenhall and a lot of the Illinois offense. Juice Williams is back as is dynamic wide receiver Arrelious Benn. The D has been banged up but they are coming into the Penn State game the healthiest they've been all year. The defense has gone from one of the Big Ten's best a year ago to one of the worst (statistically speaking) ranking at or near the bottom in virtually every statistical category, most likely because the loss of this guy:

Offense

Williams was not supposed to be the answer to the loss of the aforementioned Mendenhall but things have turned out that way. Juice has carried the ball one more time than every down back Daniel Dufrene and 19 more times than he did at this point a year ago. Dufrene is averaging 6.7 yards per carry but he lacks Mendenhall's explosiveness and doesn't have a touchdown in three games. True freshmen running backs Jason Ford and Mikel LeShoure have good size and may finally be coming along. Look for Illinois to establish the inside running game with all three backs, Penn State will be most vulnerable between the tackles and the Illini interior lineman are experienced and solid and MLB Josh Hull has had trouble shedding blocks.

The main playmaker on offense (outside of Williams) is wide receiver Arrelious Benn and although he is the team's leading receiver, Will Judson has the most yardage and two touchdowns – Benn has yet to score through the air, although he's scored twice on the ground.

Juice is much improved this season completing almost 60% of his passes. He threw for 450 yards in the loss to Missouri but in the last game he struggled, completing only 13 of his 25 passes for 147 yards with a TD and an interception. In two games against Penn State Williams is 24 for 57 with a touchdown and four interceptions but it's his option ability that will keep Tom Bradley awake at night, especially if Penn State allows Illinois to establish the inside running game. There is a HUGE red flag for Illinois at the right tackle position where Ryan Palmer is out with a foot injury and will be replaced by true freshman Jeff Allen. Oh did I mention that is the side that Aaron Maybin and his Big Ten leading six sacks plays on? Thought I might mention that.

Defense

Strong Safety Donsay Hardeman and DT Josh Brent are back this week which moves Illinois best D-lineman Will Davis, back to his true position of DE (HT: Paint the Town Orange via Zombie Nation). Linebacker Brit Miller leads the team and the Big Ten in tackles averaging 12 per game. But the Illini D has been pretty horrid giving up a league worst 30 points per game which ranks them somewhere around 94^th in the nation. They are also 10^th in the conference in rushing D, pass efficiency D, total D, and turnover margin, so yeah, they've not been good.

Special Teams

Statistically the return game hasn't been anything to write home about but statistics be damned Arrelious Benn returned one last year on Penn State and if ya haven't noticed, the Nittany Lions haven't been that great on kickoff coverage. Punter Anthony Santella is only averaging a little over 38 yards a punt but kicker Matt Eller is 4 for 5 on field goals converting two over 40 yards.

Game Outlook

It's a night game it's a white out and it's Penn State's first big test so don't expect the slow start we saw last week. I would think the Zooker would want to take the crowd out of it so look for Illinois to come out and try to pound the ball between the tackles and throw a couple wrinkles in with Benn or Williams running some misdirection plays early to keep Penn State's D honest. Honestly this game could come down to special teams, the Nittany Lions are terrible covering kickoffs which probably means they'll kick it short and give the Illini good field position. On the other hand Illinois' punter isn't fantastic so Penn State could have a chance at some decent punt returns. Illinois' defense, injury riddled or not, has been downright horrid so I think Penn State's offense can put points on the board as long as they don't turn the ball over like last year. I'm really looking forward to seeing the matchup between Aaron Maybin and Illinois inexperienced right tackle, they'll probably have to double team him which means someone else will get single coverage and it gives Penn State the option to blitz an extra man probably free. Containing Juice Williams will be the defense's number one concern, if Penn State keeps him in the pocket and forces him to beat them with his arm I think Penn State wins, I'm not sold on Juice's passing acumen yet.

TNL's Prediction

PSU 34
Illinois 20

An obligatory look at Syracuse

Schedule/Results
Overall (0-2)

Northwestern – L (30-10)
Akron – L (42-28)

Team Overview

The outlook for the Orange wasn't that great to start the year but then they lost their best receiver, Mike Williams to academic issues and things went downhill fast. This is clearly the end of the road for head coach Greg Robinson whose 7-28 career record is nothing to write home about. The Orange have totaled a grandiose 38 points … combined… against Northwestern and Akron… AKRON! Yeah, it's not going to be pretty.

Offense

Without a viable threat in the passing game, the Orange had to turn to the running game and they've had some success. Senior running back Curtis Brinkley has a respectable 192 yards on 30 carries and he and backup Delone Carter are averaging 6.4 yards per carry in 2 games. Outside of that there isn't anything to even talk about: they're leading receiver (Donte Davis ) has 78 yards total. The quarterback combination of Cameron Dantley and Andrew Robinson has combined for a grand total of 238 yards passing in two games. Let's move on shall we?

Defense

Last year Syracuse was last in the Big East and 111th in the nation in yards allowed and this year they have to rebuild their entire defensive back seven. Did I say there was nothing to talk about in the offense? Yeah, there's even less to talk about in the D. NT Arthur Jones blew up last season to earn All-Big East Second Team honors stamping out 51 tackles and 17.5 for loss, but outside of him and there's just nothing else. Oh and he gets to line up across from All-American candidate A. Q. Shipley. The orange had a TOTAL of 9 sacks all last season – 9.

Special Teams

K Patrick Shadle has made all 5 of his extra point attempts and a field goal from 30-39 yards but missed a 50+ try. Punter Robert Long has a respectable 44.6 yard average per punt with a long boot of 72 and he's had a lot of practice. The longest kick return Syracuse has as a team is 24 yards so no real threat there.

Game Outlook

There's not a lot of hope for Syracuse in this one, they simply don't have the horses on offense to keep up with Penn State's O because Penn State will score a lot of points against this Swiss cheese defense. Syracuse ranks 112^th in total yards given up and 113^th in rushing D; lock the young kids up, it's not going to be pretty.

TNL's Prediction

PSU 56
Orange 7

An obligatory look at Oregon State

Menacing little wood chipper, isn’t he?

Schedule/Results
Overall (0-1)

Stanford - L (28-36)

Team Overview

Oregon State was a surprising 9-4 last season beating Cal and Oregon on the road and Maryland in the Emerald bowl. Unfortunately, the Beavers lost top rusher Yvenson Bernard and each member of the front seven of their defense so this could be termed a "rebuilding" year. In week one Oregon State lost a heartbreaker to Stanford when WR Darrell Catchings fumbled the ball late in the game as he reached out for the goal line on what would have been a game changing score.

Offense

Returning are two important cogs to this Oregon State offense: WR Sammie Stroughter and Lyle Moevao. The former is returning from a season-ending injury and the latter was a bit inconsistent last season. It appears both have righted the ship as Moevao threw for 404 yards and 3 touchdowns and Stroughter caught 157 yards and 2 touchdowns in week one. Penn State can probably expect a one-dimensional attack as the Beavers only managed 86 yards on the ground. In addition to Stroughter, wide receiver Shane Morales added 13 catches for 151 yards and a TD. So yeah, it could be a long day for the secondary.

Defense

Senior DE Victor Butler returns with his 10.5 sacks as does Senior CB Brandon Hughes who had 2 INT's last year. Hard hitting senior strong safety Al Afalava returns as the team's leading tackler with 64, three for loss and a couple fumble recoveries. Afalava likes to hit but can be fooled on passing plays. All three linebackers are gone but Oregon has some experience back at all three positions. The rest is pretty much question marks as the Free Safety and other starting CB position were up for grabs at the beginning of the season.

Special Teams

Alexis Serna was Oregon's punter AND placekicker last season and will be missed… as a kicker, he was dead last in the Pac 10 in punting. Enter redshirt freshman Kyle Harper and junior Sean Sehnem either of which will be a welcomed improvement over Serna (the punter). Sammie Stroughter gives OSU one of the most dangerous punt returners in the country and sophomore James Rodgers averaged 24.4 yards on five returns and has a knack for getting lost behind bigger players. As far as the coverage teams go, last season, Oregon State was fifth nationally in both punt and kickoff return yardage, don't expect anything different this season.

Game Outlook

After coming off a heartbreaking loss to Stanford, a game Oregon State could have won, the Beavers will look for respect traveling across the country to play our beloved Nittany Lions. OSU offers a great test for the Penn State defense; we'll really get a chance to see how good our pass coverage is. It also presents a chance for Clark and Co. to open up the 'Spread HD' against a defense with a pulse, albeit not a whole lot of one. With a new punter who only averaged 32 yards on 2 punts in week 1, look for Penn State to take advantage of good field position. The Beavers won't be a threat to run the ball so the Penn State D will have a chance to pin their ears back and worry about pass rush. I think this game could be more of a shootout than some fans think, but I still think Penn State wins by at least two touchdowns.

TNL's Prediction

PSU 45
Beavers 28

An obligatory look at Coastal Carolina

Team Overview

The Chanticleers (read: Chickens) of the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision and Big South Football Conference have five players on the preseason All-Conference list. They are picked to finish second in the division and have won or shared three of the six Big South championships since the League started football in 2002.

Offense

Last season the Chickens were lead by junior quarterback William Richardson (yes that name should be familiar to Penn State fans he's the brother of Wally *shudder*). This year redshirt freshman Jamie Childers showed his skills in the spring, as he was named the starter heading into fall drills. Wait… a freshman can start… at QUARTERBACK… OVER A SENIOR!!! Is that legal? Somewhere Joe Paterno just had a mini stroke. Coastal lost a running back and two wide receivers to the NFL last season but they are deep at running back with sophomore Eric O'Neal and senior Arthur Sitton. The offensive line returns all five starters led by senior All-Big South selection Britt Leggett.

Defense

On the defensive side of the ball Coastal is led by All-Big South linebackers senior D.J. Rice and junior Phillip Oboh. The line is rebuilding but the secondary is boosted by first Team All-Big South selections senior Marrio Norman and junior Brandon Autry.

Special Teams

Last season Coastal had to replace everyone whole-sale on the special teams unit with freshmen and had to overcome some growing pains. With a year's experience they should be better but don't expect the world of this unit.

Game Outlook

Ok, having said ALL that it's not going to be a close game. Penn State will keep things simple and we will probably walk away saying "that was the Spread HD!?!" I don't except the game to be tight but if it is at halftime (God help my liver) Penn State will overpower them in the second half. The Nittany Lions could probably stick to running the ball and use their road-graders but I hope they allow Clark to air it out some, he needs this kind of tune up.

TNL's Prediction
PSU 45
Coastal 7