Analyzing What Went Wrong for Penn State Football in 20-13 Loss to Ohio State
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
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
He has been recognized for his work as a photographer and has also contributed to various publications including PennLive and The Weather Channel.
Brad is an Air Force veteran, coach and competitive runner that grew up a Nittany Lions fan as his family is originally from the State College area.
His diverse skillset and experiences provide for interesting perspectives on the college football, and sports topics of the day.
- James Franklin and Penn State Football: Closing in On Elite After Six Years - December 5, 2024
- Penn State’s Tight End Factory: Luke Reynolds is Next Off The Line - November 26, 2024
- Penn State Football: Reasons for Confidence, and to Worry at Minnesota - November 22, 2024