Penn State’s Running Game Stumbles in Narrow Victory Over Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN – Penn State’s running game faced significant challenges during their narrow 26-25 victory against Minnesota last Saturday. Despite the win, the Nittany Lions struggled to make significant gains on the ground, finishing with a total of 117 yards on 33 carries, which translates to a modest average of just 3.5 yards per attempt.
The performance was further skewed by a standout play from tight end Luke Reynolds, who added a crucial 32-yard gain on a fake punt late in the fourth quarter, inflating the overall rushing statistics. Without this play, the Lions’ ground game would have appeared even less effective, highlighting ongoing concerns for the team as they look to improve as they continue their season.
While the team managed to secure a much-needed victory, the limited effectiveness of the rushing attack raises questions about their ability to sustain drives and maintain control of the game in future matchups. It is clear that the offensive line and running backs need to step up if the Lions hope to contend with tougher opponents down the line.
Coach James Franklin expressed his determination to analyze the performance and address the weaknesses in the running game during practice this week. “We need to find a way to create more opportunities on the ground,” Franklin stated. “Every yard counts, and we can’t rely on trick plays alone to gain significant ground.”
As the Nittany Lions prepare for their next challenge, the coaching staff will undoubtedly focus on enhancing the running game, aiming for a more balanced offensive approach and ensuring that the team remains competitive in the remainder of the season.
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Photo credit www.pennlive.com
