Chief Editor
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Michigan has blown everyone out so far this season. Penn State has played better competition this season, but the offense looked bad against Ohio State a few weeks ago. To win, Drew Allar needs the game of his life for Penn State.
Rutgers, Nebraska, UNLV and Minnesota, when these are the best teams you have played, you still have questions to answer.
Michigan has yet to meet an opponent that required them to steal signs to win. Of course, that fact has not stopped them from doing it.
Drew Allar is gradually beginning to look and play like an established starter; he has no problems with turnovers whatsoever, and his defensive side can even contribute.
Maryland’s offensive line hasn’t been terrible this season. Last week, however, Penn State’s defensive front absolutely decimated it, totalling six sacks and 12 tackles for loss in their 51-15 win against Maryland.
Michigan may lead the nation in fewest sacks allowed and second in tackles for loss conceded, but Penn State offers up some unique challenges that have yet to be fully met by Michigan.
What happens when the Wolverine run game is stopped when JJ McCarthy feels pressure to make reads quickly?
So far, the Wolverines have managed to keep everything under control.
Michigan held firm against Purdue. Though Michigan conceded a late touchdown – which some may view as devastatingly unfair if they were betting the over/under – their defense still allowed 13 points and should feel proud of itself for that performance.
Beyond its obvious storyline, the defense has been truly phenomenal. Not giving up much against the run and the passing defense has been stingy, while keeping opponents under 200 yards passing yards. Meanwhile, an efficient offensive unit has taken down everything in its path with devastating force.
No matter the accusations of sign theft, there’s no easier or cheaper way for the Wolverine front five to be as effective – they have simply outdone themselves in production so far.
Penn State Nation is overjoyed that Penn State’s passing game, which didn’t make the trip to Ohio State, completed some throws against Indiana and Maryland despite missing their bus to the Ohio State game.
The Iowa defense allowed Penn State to move quickly against it, yet still allowed 397 total yards – to be fair, Iowa’s season-high yield – without giving up points or more significant yardage gains than usual.
Penn State – which had no success moving the ball against Ohio State – must still demonstrate it can compete consistently against an elite opponent.
The difference in this game will be at quarterback. Drew Allar has not shown me that he is the guy in big games; JJ McCarthy has. Take Michigan -4.5.
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