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NittanyCentral delivers expert analysis from veteran reporters and timely updates on Penn State sports, with in-depth coverage of Nittany Lions Football, Wrestling, Basketball, and more.

NittanyCentral

NittanyCentral delivers expert analysis from veteran reporters and timely updates on Penn State sports, with in-depth coverage of Nittany Lions Football, Wrestling, Basketball, and more.

Analyzing What Went Wrong for Penn State Football in 20-13 Loss to Ohio State

Penn State Football

What looked like a promising showdown, and potential opportunity for an upset and signature victory for the Nittany Lions on Saturday, quickly became another disappointment for Penn State Football.

Penn State has now lost to Ohio State for the eighth straight time, the latest a stinging 20-13 defeat in front of  a record-setting and raucous Beaver Stadium crowd.

Here’s a breakdown of the key issues facing the Nittany Lions heading into Week 9:

Undisciplined Play

This is one of the most undisciplined Penn State teams in recent memory, with penalties and mistakes piling up in ways that shouldn’t happen for a team with playoff ambitions. Although errors on the field fall partly on the players, the responsibility to maintain accountability ultimately lies with the coaching staff.


Game Plan Issues

Penn State Football, James Franklin
Nov 2, 2024; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin walks on the field during a warmup prior to the game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images

Ohio State’s strategy to counter Penn State’s defensive pressure with quick routes and halfback passes was effective. In contrast, Penn State’s staff failed to make adjustments, leaving quarterback Drew Allar with limited options and without enough offensive flexibility to respond effectively.

Penn State’s creativity and explosiveness were nowhere to be found when needed most. A crucial series on the goal line resulted in no points as coaches opted for repeated runs, failing to utilize top talent like tight end Tyler Warren. A game lost by seven points highlights how costly these decisions can be.


Wide Receiver Struggles

Consistently ineffective against strong defenses, Penn State’s receiving corps lacks elite production. While dropped passes aren’t entirely on the coaches, performance at the position reflects coaching quality. Improvement will likely require an NFL-experienced coach to elevate both recruiting and development.

A team is ultimately defined by its leadership. Penn State’s repeated failures in big games point to coaching issues, from accountability to game strategy. While the Nittany Lions remain a strong team, this loss underscores that there’s still a ways to go to achieve greatness.

MORE: Key Takeaways, What to Blame for Penn State’s Loss to Ohio State

Brad Kulp
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Analyzing What Went Wrong for Penn State Football in 20-13 Loss to Ohio State

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