SPARTANS WIN 34-24!
BEST NIGHT OF THE SEASON!
THANK YOU MSU!
What Can I Say?
6 hours ago
Showing posts with label Michigan State. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Michigan State. Show all posts
Saturday, December 7, 2013
Monday, October 1, 2012
Can't Spell UNSPORTSMANLIKE without O-S-U
Did you know that Michigan State lodged a complaint against the Buckeyes before the game concerning game tapes?
And yes, I know you can't spell UnSPortsmanlike without a P-S-U either. But the title is still catchy, doncha think? And in this context, more than alphabetically appropriate.
According to this USA Today report:
Michigan State defensive coordinator Pat Narduzzi said Ohio State doctored the game film it was required to send to MSU before Saturday's game.It's good to see that Urban Meyer is taking the high road at THE Ohio State U. Oh, wait. It's not his fault!
Narduzzi told the Detroit Free Press that Ohio State cut off pre-snap motions and shifts before plays on film of its four games prior to Saturday's 17-16 OSU win at Spartan Stadium.
"We had tape cut off all week, where they changed the tape, I'm not going to lie to you," Narduzzi said outside the MSU locker room. "They send you tape and they've got it all cut off, and you don't get to see shifts or motions or anything else."
Big Ten teams are required to provide game film to each other before they play, with footage shot by their respective video staffs. Narduzzi said MSU contacted Ohio State's non-league opponents and got film from them.
"I don't know anything about that," Meyer said after his news conference. "I don't handle the video. What are they saying?"Apparently NCAA and Big Ten head coaches are responsible for former employees and investigating crimes, but are not responsible for the operations of their actual football teams.
Asked if he was concerned about a Big Ten inquiry, Meyer said: "There is no video issue here."No cover-up here. You didn't see anything. The penguins (and the buckeyes) are psychotic. Or Gene Smith made them an offer they couldn't refuse.
Narduzzi indicated that MSU complained to the Big Ten, but MSU associate athletics director John Lewandowski said MSU athletics director Mark Hollis and Ohio State athletics director Gene Smith settled the issue between them, with no Big Ten involvement.
Seriously, is this kind of nonsense really necessary? This is reminiscent of the Pitt Tape Gate episode where Walt Harris refused to give PSU game tapes back in 1997. I mean someone had to take the time to edit those tapes before they sent them. This was a deliberate act--the tapes didn't edit themselves--not an accident. Would it have made any difference in the outcome? Who knows?! It's just kind of sad if this is the kind of sophomoric behavior that Meyer has to stoop to to win games.
But at least he didn't descend on State College to recruit players away from O'Brien!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Late Wrap Up
The Land Grant Trophy is a piece of hardware that seemingly penalizes the winner, who has to look at its boxy visage like an item of furniture that destroys the feng shui of a room. It almost makes losing to Michigan State a good thing, not having that contraption on campus any longer.
But that is about the only good thing I can find to say about this game.
Due to a scheduling snafu, I was actually vacationing in Orlando at Universal Studios, while Penn State played this game. I found out just prior to boarding the Simpson’s ride that Penn State lost.
As such, it was not until Wednesday that I was able to review the game.
So what happened? On the first play of the game, Baker rushed right up the middle for 16 yards. And just when it looked like Penn State was going to make a defensive stand and force a third and long, Devon Still got tagged for a blow to the helmet/head on the QB. He did it. He got flagged. But PSU uncharacteristically got flagged 8 times for 67 yards in this game. Personally, I think the flags in college and the fines in the NFL are getting out of hand. Are we playing flag football or what? But that is a rant for another day.
Fast forward. Fast forward. Score. The Spartans made it look easy. If I didn’t already know the outcome, I’d be worried we were going to lose by a lot.
Silas Redd bobbled the kickoff and ended up short of the 20. No help there.
McGloin promptly hits Brackett in the flat for a big gain to the 40. Royster folls with a nine yard run. We’re looking good. Toss sweep gets a first down and more. A 25-yard strike to Devon Smith gets the ball to the 16. Red dances to the 10. If I didn’t know the outcome already, I’d say we look like we could win this game.
But then a delay of game and a well defended screen later left PSU in long yardage. McGloin nearly got intercepted and Penn State had to settled for the field goal.
Michigan State starts with good field position at the 36. But the drive would yield nothing thanks to the tight end dropping a wide open pass from Cousins. Punt and touchback sets State up at the 20.
Penn State punts. Huh? What? I must have fallen asleep. Rewind. False start. Rewind. False start. Penn State overcame the first, but not the second. But McGloin was close to making the connection to Moye that could have changed this game around. Close, but no Land Grant Trophy. As it was, Penn State punted; touchback.
At this point, Penn State is 4 points down to the 10th ranked team in the country. I’m not pleased with the penalties, but we seem to be able to move the ball well. We got a break from the Spartan tight end dropping what could have been a big play, but all in all, we’re in this thing.
Would Fera have been able to pin the Spartans deep? Who knows?
Sparty would drive the ball 80 on eight plays highlighted by a double reverse that put them up 14-3. (Didn’t that look like holding against Stephen Morris? I reviewed it even though it isn’t reviewable!) Blown coverage on the TD pass. I just shake my head.
Missed opportunities continued as Bracket let one go off his hands that would have resulted in a first down and a big gain. With the drop, McGloin scrambled on the next blitz, made the pass, but it was well covered and PSU had to kick.
More mistakes—running into the kicker. Didn’t cost us points or field position, but it killed any chance at building momentum, took time off the clock forcing the hurry up offense and wears down our defense. But down 14-3, the game was still winnable.
Taking the opening half possession, McGloin connected with Brown for 26 yards and Penn State appeared on the move. But then the short yardage, tight sphincter bug bit Penn State yet again, unable to convert a second and three into a drive sustaining first down. In one sense, I’m pleased we just didn’t try to shove it up the middle two straight plays. And while the toss play may not have been the best choice in that instance, it had worked earlier, but Michigan State defended it well.
The defense actually comes up with a three and out stop, thanks in part to an overthrow on an open receiver by Cousins, but Penn State cannot capitalize and goes three and out on the next possession.
When I initially read about this game, I was disappointed with the defense. OK—I still am. But the third quarter of this game was a study in offensive frustration that saw Penn State yield great field position on successive ineffective drives until the Spartans, now with great field position could capitalize where Penn State could not. Never mind that McGloin had consecutive 300+ yard passing games. The bottom line was the offense did nothing to help the Penn State D and eventually, the better team took control.
Apparently Penn State plays better in a deep hole, because the Lions came back with a quick, 6 play, 74 yard drive to make the score 21-10 early in the fourth quarter. BUT . . . I did not have the same feeling at this time like I had at halftime of the Northwestern game. Time was running short and Penn State’s D needed to rise to the challenge.
It could not. MSU answered with a 9 play 68 yard drive that featured four straight runs by Baker to set up a short TD pass from Cousins.
But the team did not stop fighting, although the Spartans did their best to keep Penn State in this game. A fumble by Baker allowed Penn State to pull within a touchdown, but not without drama. MSU would intercept McGloin in the end zone, but instead of taking the touchback, Robinson ran the ball out just to have it snatched away by Moye, who made an entire highlight reel out of the final two minutes of this game. Moye finally caught the touchdown pass, but special teams were unable to come up with the on-sides kick.
Game over.
But the season is not over as the Lions have a chance at either a Gator Bowl or an Outback Bowl bid and a New Year’s Day bowl for a 7-5 team is more than you could hope for.
Yet, at 7-5 the season seems less than spectacular. No marquee victories, but a special win over northwestern for #400. Three losses to BCS teams (OSU, MSU and Bama) but two losses to teams with less than stellar records. I like how our guys fought until the very end, but in the final analysis, what fight we had left was due to mistakes by our opponent (two fumbles.) So has this season gone. At times, we look unbeatable. At times, you wonder how we won any games at all.
The defensive front has been a problem most of the season, although injuries have plagued our defense. We just don’t seem to have the killer instinct. Moye can rip the ball away—why can’t our defense? The linebacker corps is improving, but I still don’t see that Connor/Posluszny/Bowman type player yet.
Is the future bright? We certainly have a lot of youth—who now have experience. We have a bowl game to use as a springboard to a great season next year. Can Paterno pull off one more magical season, or will we be faced with frustration and despair yet again?
All I know for sure is this: every time I have counted Paterno out, he has delivered, whether it be miraculous seasons on the field or recovery from injuries/surgery.
That said, I look forward to seeing what rises from the ashes of this season next year.
BY THE NUMBERS:
Damned statistics! Penn State out-gained the Spartans 396-331. But Sparty controlled time of possession by nearly nine minutes and went 3-3 on red zone opportunities. PSU hurt themselves with numerous penalties.
MSU rushed for 163 yards, which goes back to the defensive line I mentioned above.
INTANGIBLES:
Penn State won the toss and deferred.
It is the first time since 1965 that MSU won at Beaver Stadium.
Attendance was 102,649, but from people who were there, the crowd didn’t appear that big and didn’t sound that loud on TV. Sorry guys. I call ‘em like I hear ‘em.
THE BIG (TEN) PICTURE:
Wisconsin appears to have won the Rose Bowl by virtue of being the highest ranked in the BCS at #5. Ohio State shares the Big Ten title for the tenth decade in a row. Always a bridesmaid . . . MSU shares the title with one loss to Iowa. Some things cannot be explained.
SHEDDING TEARS:
1. Boise State—seriously, I was hoping they could bust the BCS.
2. LSU—the glass slipper finally shattered.
3. Alabama—Newtonian physics sucks
4. Iowa—lost to, hee, hee, um, Minnesota. Hee. Hee. Sorry, that is too funny.
LOOKING AHEAD:
Bowl game to be announced.
But that is about the only good thing I can find to say about this game.
Due to a scheduling snafu, I was actually vacationing in Orlando at Universal Studios, while Penn State played this game. I found out just prior to boarding the Simpson’s ride that Penn State lost.
As such, it was not until Wednesday that I was able to review the game.
So what happened? On the first play of the game, Baker rushed right up the middle for 16 yards. And just when it looked like Penn State was going to make a defensive stand and force a third and long, Devon Still got tagged for a blow to the helmet/head on the QB. He did it. He got flagged. But PSU uncharacteristically got flagged 8 times for 67 yards in this game. Personally, I think the flags in college and the fines in the NFL are getting out of hand. Are we playing flag football or what? But that is a rant for another day.
Fast forward. Fast forward. Score. The Spartans made it look easy. If I didn’t already know the outcome, I’d be worried we were going to lose by a lot.
Silas Redd bobbled the kickoff and ended up short of the 20. No help there.
McGloin promptly hits Brackett in the flat for a big gain to the 40. Royster folls with a nine yard run. We’re looking good. Toss sweep gets a first down and more. A 25-yard strike to Devon Smith gets the ball to the 16. Red dances to the 10. If I didn’t know the outcome already, I’d say we look like we could win this game.
But then a delay of game and a well defended screen later left PSU in long yardage. McGloin nearly got intercepted and Penn State had to settled for the field goal.
Michigan State starts with good field position at the 36. But the drive would yield nothing thanks to the tight end dropping a wide open pass from Cousins. Punt and touchback sets State up at the 20.
Penn State punts. Huh? What? I must have fallen asleep. Rewind. False start. Rewind. False start. Penn State overcame the first, but not the second. But McGloin was close to making the connection to Moye that could have changed this game around. Close, but no Land Grant Trophy. As it was, Penn State punted; touchback.
At this point, Penn State is 4 points down to the 10th ranked team in the country. I’m not pleased with the penalties, but we seem to be able to move the ball well. We got a break from the Spartan tight end dropping what could have been a big play, but all in all, we’re in this thing.
Would Fera have been able to pin the Spartans deep? Who knows?
Sparty would drive the ball 80 on eight plays highlighted by a double reverse that put them up 14-3. (Didn’t that look like holding against Stephen Morris? I reviewed it even though it isn’t reviewable!) Blown coverage on the TD pass. I just shake my head.
Missed opportunities continued as Bracket let one go off his hands that would have resulted in a first down and a big gain. With the drop, McGloin scrambled on the next blitz, made the pass, but it was well covered and PSU had to kick.
More mistakes—running into the kicker. Didn’t cost us points or field position, but it killed any chance at building momentum, took time off the clock forcing the hurry up offense and wears down our defense. But down 14-3, the game was still winnable.
Taking the opening half possession, McGloin connected with Brown for 26 yards and Penn State appeared on the move. But then the short yardage, tight sphincter bug bit Penn State yet again, unable to convert a second and three into a drive sustaining first down. In one sense, I’m pleased we just didn’t try to shove it up the middle two straight plays. And while the toss play may not have been the best choice in that instance, it had worked earlier, but Michigan State defended it well.
The defense actually comes up with a three and out stop, thanks in part to an overthrow on an open receiver by Cousins, but Penn State cannot capitalize and goes three and out on the next possession.
When I initially read about this game, I was disappointed with the defense. OK—I still am. But the third quarter of this game was a study in offensive frustration that saw Penn State yield great field position on successive ineffective drives until the Spartans, now with great field position could capitalize where Penn State could not. Never mind that McGloin had consecutive 300+ yard passing games. The bottom line was the offense did nothing to help the Penn State D and eventually, the better team took control.
Apparently Penn State plays better in a deep hole, because the Lions came back with a quick, 6 play, 74 yard drive to make the score 21-10 early in the fourth quarter. BUT . . . I did not have the same feeling at this time like I had at halftime of the Northwestern game. Time was running short and Penn State’s D needed to rise to the challenge.
It could not. MSU answered with a 9 play 68 yard drive that featured four straight runs by Baker to set up a short TD pass from Cousins.
But the team did not stop fighting, although the Spartans did their best to keep Penn State in this game. A fumble by Baker allowed Penn State to pull within a touchdown, but not without drama. MSU would intercept McGloin in the end zone, but instead of taking the touchback, Robinson ran the ball out just to have it snatched away by Moye, who made an entire highlight reel out of the final two minutes of this game. Moye finally caught the touchdown pass, but special teams were unable to come up with the on-sides kick.
Game over.
But the season is not over as the Lions have a chance at either a Gator Bowl or an Outback Bowl bid and a New Year’s Day bowl for a 7-5 team is more than you could hope for.
Yet, at 7-5 the season seems less than spectacular. No marquee victories, but a special win over northwestern for #400. Three losses to BCS teams (OSU, MSU and Bama) but two losses to teams with less than stellar records. I like how our guys fought until the very end, but in the final analysis, what fight we had left was due to mistakes by our opponent (two fumbles.) So has this season gone. At times, we look unbeatable. At times, you wonder how we won any games at all.
The defensive front has been a problem most of the season, although injuries have plagued our defense. We just don’t seem to have the killer instinct. Moye can rip the ball away—why can’t our defense? The linebacker corps is improving, but I still don’t see that Connor/Posluszny/Bowman type player yet.
Is the future bright? We certainly have a lot of youth—who now have experience. We have a bowl game to use as a springboard to a great season next year. Can Paterno pull off one more magical season, or will we be faced with frustration and despair yet again?
All I know for sure is this: every time I have counted Paterno out, he has delivered, whether it be miraculous seasons on the field or recovery from injuries/surgery.
That said, I look forward to seeing what rises from the ashes of this season next year.
BY THE NUMBERS:
Damned statistics! Penn State out-gained the Spartans 396-331. But Sparty controlled time of possession by nearly nine minutes and went 3-3 on red zone opportunities. PSU hurt themselves with numerous penalties.
MSU rushed for 163 yards, which goes back to the defensive line I mentioned above.
INTANGIBLES:
Penn State won the toss and deferred.
It is the first time since 1965 that MSU won at Beaver Stadium.
Attendance was 102,649, but from people who were there, the crowd didn’t appear that big and didn’t sound that loud on TV. Sorry guys. I call ‘em like I hear ‘em.
THE BIG (TEN) PICTURE:
Wisconsin appears to have won the Rose Bowl by virtue of being the highest ranked in the BCS at #5. Ohio State shares the Big Ten title for the tenth decade in a row. Always a bridesmaid . . . MSU shares the title with one loss to Iowa. Some things cannot be explained.
SHEDDING TEARS:
1. Boise State—seriously, I was hoping they could bust the BCS.
2. LSU—the glass slipper finally shattered.
3. Alabama—Newtonian physics sucks
4. Iowa—lost to, hee, hee, um, Minnesota. Hee. Hee. Sorry, that is too funny.
LOOKING AHEAD:
Bowl game to be announced.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Land Grant Lost
The Spartans apparently prevailed over Penn State 28-22. I was unable to see the game and have not had the chance to see it on DVR. Due to circumstances, I will be unable to recap the game until later in the week--Wednesday or Thursday at the earliest--and by that time it is old news and probably not worth the effort. We shall see.
Better yet, let me know in the comment section--should I bother to watch the game and is it worth blogging a recap?
Better yet, let me know in the comment section--should I bother to watch the game and is it worth blogging a recap?
Thursday, November 25, 2010
MSU - By The Numbers
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
I don't have time right now to analyze the stats, but here are the stats from the NCAA site submitted for your approval:
I don't have time right now to analyze the stats, but here are the stats from the NCAA site submitted for your approval:
| NCAA Stats Comparison | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category: | Penn St. | Michigan St. |
| Rushing | 71 | 41 |
| Passing Offense | 58 | 39 |
| Total Offense | 66 | 37 |
| Scoring Offense | 81 | 38 |
| Rushing Defense | 75 | 23 |
| Turnovers Gained | 107 | 26 |
| Passes Had Intercepted | 64 | 41 |
| Pass Defense | 25 | 46 |
| Net Punting | 9 | 26 |
| Punt Returns | 47 | 19 |
| Kickoff Returns | 40 | 113 |
| Turnover Margin | 65 | 23 |
| Fumbles Recovered | 111 | 70 |
| Passes Intercepted | 74 | 12 |
| Fumbles Lost | 5 | 26 |
| Passes Intercepted | 22 | 31 |
| Passing Efficiency | 71 | 23 |
| Pass Efficiency Defense | 73 | 28 |
| Total Defense | 48 | 28 |
| Scoring Defense | 40 | 23 |
| Fewest Penalties Per Game | 3 | 92 |
| Fewest Yards Penalized Per Game | 1 | 95 |
| Punt Return Yardage Defense | 39 | 61 |
| Kickoff Return Yardage Defense | 43 | 66 |
| Offense Third-down Efficiency | 42 | 82 |
| Offense Fourth-down Efficiency | 87 | 10 |
| Defense Third-down Efficiency | 6 | 36 |
| Defense Fourth-down Efficiency | 22 | 81 |
| Tackles for Loss | 89 | 76 |
| Offense Tackles for Loss | 6 | 19 |
| Pass Sacks | 94 | 77 |
| Pass Sacks Allowed | 11 | 49 |
| Time of Possession | 35 | 46 |
| First Downs | 64 | 59 |
| First Downs Allowed | 30 | 45 |
| Red Zone Efficiency | 75 | 11 |
| Red Zone Efficiency - Defense | 114 | 13 |
| Average NCAA Rank: | 51.7 | 44.08 |
| Weighted Avg. Rank: | 56.83 | 31.25 |
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Daily Delivers FedEx Win
FedEx: When it absolutely, positively sucks to be Indiana.
Let's be honest, here. The Hoosiers put up quite a fight for nearly three quarters. As I mentioned in my preview, they have played some teams tough--they nearly coulda shoulda beat Iowa, and hung in comparable to PSU against Ohio State and Illinois. But the Hoosiers haven't been able to actually translate their moral victories into real victories. But then again, neither has Penn State.
The Hoosiers are now winless in the conference. Winning this game is not exactly something to FedEx home about. On the other hand, things could have been worse--we could have lost.
And tied at 24 deep in the third quarter, that was a distinct possibility. Colin Wagner missed a 43 yard field goal that gave Indiana good field position.
But the Hoosiers were unable to move the ball and then a strange thing happened. Someone stepped up and made a play.
Enter Andrew Daily who blocked the punt while James Van Fleet (fleet of foot!) took the ball in for what would be the winning touchdown. The spark led to 17 unanswered points offensively, and the defense tightened like a steel trap. Indiana could manage only two more first downs in the fourth quarter, and Drew Astorino would make an interception that set up a field goal.
This game was a microcosm of the entire season. At times we played well. We scored on our first two possessions of the game. But then we made mistakes--losing yardage on a fourth and one on the opening drive of the second half, and missing a makeable field goal. Four players were disciplined for being late on the team bus. The injury bug bit center Doug Klopacz. Such has been this season.
In the end, Penn State won a game against a team that it should beat. McGloin continues to look good and run the offense well. And despite giving up 24 points, the defense did well, holding the Hoosiers to 90 yards rushing on the day and 332 yards in total offense.
BY THE NUMBERS:
Penn State dominated time of possession 37 minutes to 23. This was keyed at least in part due to going 11 of 17 on third down conversions and 494 yards of total offense. The Hoosiers high powered offense only managed 4 of 13 on third down conversions.
Penn State is now 14-0 all-time versus Indiana.
INTANGIBLES:
Indiana won the toss and elected to take the ball.
JoePa pads his lead with victory #401.
The crowd, mostly PSU fans, was 78,790.
THE BIG (TEN) PICTURE:
Three teams now have one conference loss and are 10-1 overall: O$U, Wisconsin, and MSU.
MSU slipped past Purdue 35-31.
Illinois downed Northwestern 48-27.
Wisconsin badgered THEM, beating the wolverines in Ann Arbor 48-28.
The Pro team from Columbus snuck by Iowa 20-17.
Minnesota did not play.
SHEDDING TEARS:
1. The Hawkeyes. Sucks to be mediocre, doesn't it? Yeah, you beat us but we're both 7-4.
2. Nebraska--lost 9-6 to Texas A&M
3. USC--trounced 36-7 by Oregon State. Can they please beat the Irish?
4. Miami--out hokied 31-17. The Canes have NEVER been to the ACC championship game.
5. Mississippi--lost 43-36 to Lucky State U (LSU)
LOOKING AHEAD:
The Spartans come a-knocking with their 10-1 record to Beaver Stadium. I don't believe they have ever won at Beaver Stadium, but I'm too busy to look that up. Gametime has been set for noon.
The Spartans only loss came at the hands of Iowa. Been there and done that!
But their record is deceptive. Their out of conference foes are laughable: Western Michigan, Florida Atlantic and Northern Colorado. Their marquee match-up with Notre Dame went to OT, and the Irish aren't very good this year.
They lost to Iowa as badly or worse than we did. They did beat Illinois. And to their credit, they beat the Badgers somehow. The Spartans do not play Ohio State.
In short, they are a good team, capable of beating a top ten program. We, on the other hand, look at times like a good team, but unable to beat anyone that has a pulse. Our marquee win is probably a shootout over THEM in prime time.
But that all said, I think we have a chance in this game, mainly with home field advantage. A win would not only give us a boost going into the bowl and next season, but give some legitimacy to this season with a win over a ranked, quality opponent. A loss just confirms how mediocre this season was.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Lions Over Spartans 42-14
Penn State’s defense held tight and shut the Spartans down on their first possession. Clark opened the offense with a completion, and then Royster went over a thousand yards on the season with a rush around the corner and another first down. But the good field position would be squandered on three incompletions and Boone punted the Spartans deep at their nine.
Michigan State managed a first down on a circus catch but could not sustain any momentum, forced to punt it back to Penn State. Like the Spartans, Penn State looked like they were going to get a drive going, but the Lions were unable to handle the blitz twice and ended up punting Sparty back inside the 20 yard line.
The PSU D bent a little but stopped the Spartans and forced a punt. A theatrical fake by the Spartan punter got a five yard penalty and the Spartans re-punted with about the same result. But true to the script so far, Penn State moved the ball on one first down, stalled, and promptly pinned the Spartans back at their ten yard line. Who would blink first?
I hate these games where the game plan seems to be to see who makes the first mistake. Our defense plays with heart and fire. Our offense seems like they’re playing with fire—afraid to get burned and distracted by shiny objects.
Then the defense lapsed and Michigan State moved the ball on the ground for 53 yards on three plays, but then the drive stalled yet again and they punted. But field position had flipped and now it was Penn State pinned at their ten yard line.
I thought at this point that this drive would be key. A three-and out would improve the field position battle for the Spartans. But we put together a great drive, came up short, and capped it with a missed field goal.
Finally, on our next possession, the offense continued to click long enough for a touchdown throw to Quarless for the first points of the day!
With only a couple of minutes left in the game, it looked good for Penn State as the Spartans hadn’t been able to mount any kind of drive without some big plays. But I thought too soon, as a few big plays later, the Spartans were at our ten knocking at the door. Drama and suspense I could do without. Sure enough, right after they flash up the graphic that PSU has the best red zone defense in the country, the Spartans score.
When you think things will quiet down, PSU sends Green back for the kickoff to the 33. A couple of big plays later and it looks like PSU was going to move right down the field but a wide-open Zug drops a pass that might have put us in field goal position. Penn State recovered, but then Clark is sacked on the next play forcing us out of field goal range and out of time outs with seven ticks left on the clock. Did I say out of field goal range? Penn State would try it anyway from 51 yards. NO GOOD! Yes, we were out of field goal range, and out of time.
So in one half of play, we let a crappy opponent hang around. We left at least 6 points on the field due to the lack of a decent kicker—I know . . . the latter was 51 yards and not his fault. But the first one was, and this isn’t the first game he has missed field goals. Anyone who thought he was going to make that 51 yarder has never seen this kid kick before. But worse than that were two plays by veteran seniors that really let this team down—Hull not looking back in the endzone for a very defensible pass that would have saved a TD, and Clark for taking a sack in a situation where you can’t afford to take a sack.
The second half couldn’t have opened in better fashion. Green returned the kick-off to the 45 yard line, perhaps our best return in six decades. That’s an exaggeration but it feels that way! The Lion offense looked crisp. Aided by a roughing the passer penalty, Drake hit Quarless in the back of the endzone to put Penn State up 14-7. You gotta love the Drake!
And then we kicked the ball into the endzone?! Who is playing special teams for Penn State in this half???
Another defensive stand and a poor punt set the Lions up in decent field position for their next drive. Starting from our 35, there should be no holding back the playbook now. Score again and put this beast away. Instead, we run two plays and Clark is sacked on third and one. Boone pins Sparty back at the 16 yard line, but another golden opportunity is squandered with uninspired play.
Penn State forces a three and out aided by a dropped pass on third down by a well-covered receiver. The punt exchange cost us a yard as we take possession back on our 34 yard line. Once again—good field position, but can we capitalize on it?
This time the Lions didn’t disappoint. A first down was followed by a false start on Landolt. Here we go again, I thought prematurely. But we recovered with a big draw by Royster to the MSU 31. And then we lined up in the power I. Even I thought we were going to run the ball. MSU was also fooled as Suey slipped out of the backfield and took the pass to the endzone. The play was reviewed but confirmed the TD.
Sparty responded with a good return to the 38. After Josh Hull was called for PI—spot foul—and Sparty got called for a hold, Sukay picked off a Kissing Cousins pass and returned it to the MSU 32. Clark went for the kill, connecting with Zug for a TD on the very next play. Now that is Penn State football!
The Spartans fared no better on the next series, showing why they failed to beat ND (mired in an OT yawn fest with Connecticut) and Central Michigan, as Sean Lee picked off Cousins to give Penn State great field position again. Clark played pitch and catch again and this time Zug got to dive across the pylon for a Penn State TD.
The fourth quarter ended with the two teams exchanging scores, including a QB sneak by Newsome. The final score was 42-14.
This game, a “big game” in terms of what it meant in the bowl picture for both teams, was a great win in some respects, but the elements of disaster were still there, just beneath the surface, waiting to emerge with a splash and a plop. Both field goals were missed while the game was very much in doubt. The offense can’t seem to stay focused for more than half a game. You can argue all you want about the rebuilding O-line and the losses at wide receiver, but folks this is the 12th game of the next season. Inexperience is no longer an excuse.
For all the bluster and hype of this series, Michigan State is, how did Craig James put it, a “good middle of the pack Big Ten team.” He was being generous, but then he was comparing the Big Ten schedule to Boise State’s and I agree with his overall premise that league play in our conference is more difficult than the road which Boise State has traveled.
Clark had a record setting day on the field and I’m really glad his last regular season game gave him a chance to showcase his skills. Hopefully, that success and confidence will sweep him to a bowl win over a team that I am confident will be better prepared and more talented that this Spartan team was.
BY THE NUMBERS:
From GoPSUsports:
INTANGIBLES:
Michigan State won the toss and elected to receive.
This is only the second time since joining the Big Ten that Penn State went undefeated on the road in conference play. The other time was 1994.
Penn State now leads the series 14-12-1.
This season is the 21st time a Paterno team has won at least 10 games in a season.
This is win number 393 for Joe who is STILL five ahead of Bobby after his Seminoles pulled a late victory over the Terps.
THE BIG (TEN) PICTURE:
The Buckeyes beat THEM 21-10. Iowa beat Minnesota 12-0. Northwestern upset the Badgers 33-31. Purdue beat Indiana 38-21 to win the Old Oaken Bucket that the wolverines threw up in.
Penn State gets to redecorate its den with the Land Grant Trophy, and Iowa ended up with a Pig.
Illinois still has two non-conference games remaining, @ Cincinnati on Nov. 27 and hosting Fresno State on Dec. 5.
SHEDDING TEARS:
1. For THEM—sitting at home for the holidays
2. For LSU—some posters are looking for a new coach
3. For Iowa or PSU—whichever team doesn’t win the beauty contest
4. For RutgersAl—his “top-ranked” team is just rank, losing to Syracuse
LOOKING AHEAD:
At this point, it is a waiting game. Either Iowa or Penn State should be picked as an at-large BCS team with 10-2 records. Iowa won the head to head, but that is not a criterion for bowl selection. Penn State has the bigger TV audience—and that may be a criterion.
Possible bowl bids, depending on how the rest of the season pans out for teams that are still playing include the Fiesta, Orange of Cap One Bowls.
Asked about the situation, Paterno responded:
Well, if it works . . .
Have a Happy Thanksgiving. Don’t eat too much Hokie!
Michigan State managed a first down on a circus catch but could not sustain any momentum, forced to punt it back to Penn State. Like the Spartans, Penn State looked like they were going to get a drive going, but the Lions were unable to handle the blitz twice and ended up punting Sparty back inside the 20 yard line.
The PSU D bent a little but stopped the Spartans and forced a punt. A theatrical fake by the Spartan punter got a five yard penalty and the Spartans re-punted with about the same result. But true to the script so far, Penn State moved the ball on one first down, stalled, and promptly pinned the Spartans back at their ten yard line. Who would blink first?
I hate these games where the game plan seems to be to see who makes the first mistake. Our defense plays with heart and fire. Our offense seems like they’re playing with fire—afraid to get burned and distracted by shiny objects.
Then the defense lapsed and Michigan State moved the ball on the ground for 53 yards on three plays, but then the drive stalled yet again and they punted. But field position had flipped and now it was Penn State pinned at their ten yard line.
I thought at this point that this drive would be key. A three-and out would improve the field position battle for the Spartans. But we put together a great drive, came up short, and capped it with a missed field goal.
Finally, on our next possession, the offense continued to click long enough for a touchdown throw to Quarless for the first points of the day!
With only a couple of minutes left in the game, it looked good for Penn State as the Spartans hadn’t been able to mount any kind of drive without some big plays. But I thought too soon, as a few big plays later, the Spartans were at our ten knocking at the door. Drama and suspense I could do without. Sure enough, right after they flash up the graphic that PSU has the best red zone defense in the country, the Spartans score.
When you think things will quiet down, PSU sends Green back for the kickoff to the 33. A couple of big plays later and it looks like PSU was going to move right down the field but a wide-open Zug drops a pass that might have put us in field goal position. Penn State recovered, but then Clark is sacked on the next play forcing us out of field goal range and out of time outs with seven ticks left on the clock. Did I say out of field goal range? Penn State would try it anyway from 51 yards. NO GOOD! Yes, we were out of field goal range, and out of time.
So in one half of play, we let a crappy opponent hang around. We left at least 6 points on the field due to the lack of a decent kicker—I know . . . the latter was 51 yards and not his fault. But the first one was, and this isn’t the first game he has missed field goals. Anyone who thought he was going to make that 51 yarder has never seen this kid kick before. But worse than that were two plays by veteran seniors that really let this team down—Hull not looking back in the endzone for a very defensible pass that would have saved a TD, and Clark for taking a sack in a situation where you can’t afford to take a sack.
The second half couldn’t have opened in better fashion. Green returned the kick-off to the 45 yard line, perhaps our best return in six decades. That’s an exaggeration but it feels that way! The Lion offense looked crisp. Aided by a roughing the passer penalty, Drake hit Quarless in the back of the endzone to put Penn State up 14-7. You gotta love the Drake!
And then we kicked the ball into the endzone?! Who is playing special teams for Penn State in this half???
Another defensive stand and a poor punt set the Lions up in decent field position for their next drive. Starting from our 35, there should be no holding back the playbook now. Score again and put this beast away. Instead, we run two plays and Clark is sacked on third and one. Boone pins Sparty back at the 16 yard line, but another golden opportunity is squandered with uninspired play.
Penn State forces a three and out aided by a dropped pass on third down by a well-covered receiver. The punt exchange cost us a yard as we take possession back on our 34 yard line. Once again—good field position, but can we capitalize on it?
This time the Lions didn’t disappoint. A first down was followed by a false start on Landolt. Here we go again, I thought prematurely. But we recovered with a big draw by Royster to the MSU 31. And then we lined up in the power I. Even I thought we were going to run the ball. MSU was also fooled as Suey slipped out of the backfield and took the pass to the endzone. The play was reviewed but confirmed the TD.
Sparty responded with a good return to the 38. After Josh Hull was called for PI—spot foul—and Sparty got called for a hold, Sukay picked off a Kissing Cousins pass and returned it to the MSU 32. Clark went for the kill, connecting with Zug for a TD on the very next play. Now that is Penn State football!
The Spartans fared no better on the next series, showing why they failed to beat ND (mired in an OT yawn fest with Connecticut) and Central Michigan, as Sean Lee picked off Cousins to give Penn State great field position again. Clark played pitch and catch again and this time Zug got to dive across the pylon for a Penn State TD.
The fourth quarter ended with the two teams exchanging scores, including a QB sneak by Newsome. The final score was 42-14.
This game, a “big game” in terms of what it meant in the bowl picture for both teams, was a great win in some respects, but the elements of disaster were still there, just beneath the surface, waiting to emerge with a splash and a plop. Both field goals were missed while the game was very much in doubt. The offense can’t seem to stay focused for more than half a game. You can argue all you want about the rebuilding O-line and the losses at wide receiver, but folks this is the 12th game of the next season. Inexperience is no longer an excuse.
For all the bluster and hype of this series, Michigan State is, how did Craig James put it, a “good middle of the pack Big Ten team.” He was being generous, but then he was comparing the Big Ten schedule to Boise State’s and I agree with his overall premise that league play in our conference is more difficult than the road which Boise State has traveled.
Clark had a record setting day on the field and I’m really glad his last regular season game gave him a chance to showcase his skills. Hopefully, that success and confidence will sweep him to a bowl win over a team that I am confident will be better prepared and more talented that this Spartan team was.
BY THE NUMBERS:
From GoPSUsports:
| Team Totals | PSU | MSU |
| FIRST DOWNS | 24 | 16 |
| Rushing | 7 | 5 |
| Passing | 16 | 10 |
| Penalty | 1 | 1 |
| NET YARDS RUSHING | 188 | 94 |
| Rushing Attempts | 38 | 25 |
| Average Per Rush | 4.9 | 3.8 |
| Rushing Touchdowns | 1 | 0 |
| Yards Gained Rushing | 213 | 121 |
| Yards Lost Rushing | 25 | 27 |
| NET YARDS PASSING | 324 | 239 |
| Completions-Attempts-Int | 20-28-0 | 20-33-2 |
| Average Per Attempt | 11.6 | 7.2 |
| Average Per Completion | 16.2 | 11.9 |
| Passing Touchdowns | 5 | 2 |
| TOTAL OFFENSE YARDS | 512 | 333 |
| Total offense plays | 66 | 58 |
| Average Gain Per Play | 7.8 | 5.7 |
| Fumbles: Number-Lost | 0-0 | 0-0 |
| Penalties: Number-Yards | 6-27 | 6-60 |
| PUNTS-YARDS | 5-192 | 9-337 |
| Average Yards Per Punt | 38.4 | 37.4 |
| Net Yards Per Punt | 38.2 | 36.0 |
| Inside 20 | 5 | 3 |
| 50+ Yards | 1 | 0 |
| Touchbacks | 0 | 0 |
| Fair catch | 1 | 3 |
| KICKOFFS-YARDS | 7-475 | 2-125 |
| Average Yards Per Kickoff | 67.9 | 62.5 |
| Net Yards Per Kickoff | 44.0 | 31.0 |
| Touchbacks | 2 | 0 |
| Punt returns: Number-Yards-TD | 4-13-0 | 2-1-0 |
| Average Per Return | 3.2 | 0.5 |
| Kickoff returns: Number-Yds-TD | 2-63-0 | 5-127-0 |
| Average Per Return | 31.5 | 25.4 |
| Interceptions: Number-Yds-TD | 2-47-0 | 0-0-0 |
| Fumble Returns: Number-Yds-TD | 0-0-0 | 0-0-0 |
| Miscellaneous Yards | 0 | 0 |
| Possession Time | 33:56 | 26:04 |
| 1st Quarter | 6:35 | 8:25 |
| 2nd Quarter | 8:49 | 6:11 |
| 3rd Quarter | 7:43 | 7:17 |
| 4th Quarter | 10:49 | 4:11 |
| Third-Down Conversions | 6 of 13 | 2 of 12 |
| Fourth-Down Conversions | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 |
| Red-Zone Scores-Chances | 2-2 | 1-1 |
| Sacks By: Number-Yards | 1-9 | 4-20 |
| PAT Kicks | 6-6 | 2-2 |
| Field Goals | 0-2 | 0-0 |
INTANGIBLES:
Michigan State won the toss and elected to receive.
This is only the second time since joining the Big Ten that Penn State went undefeated on the road in conference play. The other time was 1994.
Penn State now leads the series 14-12-1.
This season is the 21st time a Paterno team has won at least 10 games in a season.
This is win number 393 for Joe who is STILL five ahead of Bobby after his Seminoles pulled a late victory over the Terps.
THE BIG (TEN) PICTURE:
The Buckeyes beat THEM 21-10. Iowa beat Minnesota 12-0. Northwestern upset the Badgers 33-31. Purdue beat Indiana 38-21 to win the Old Oaken Bucket that the wolverines threw up in.
Penn State gets to redecorate its den with the Land Grant Trophy, and Iowa ended up with a Pig.
Illinois still has two non-conference games remaining, @ Cincinnati on Nov. 27 and hosting Fresno State on Dec. 5.
SHEDDING TEARS:
1. For THEM—sitting at home for the holidays
2. For LSU—some posters are looking for a new coach
3. For Iowa or PSU—whichever team doesn’t win the beauty contest
4. For RutgersAl—his “top-ranked” team is just rank, losing to Syracuse
LOOKING AHEAD:
At this point, it is a waiting game. Either Iowa or Penn State should be picked as an at-large BCS team with 10-2 records. Iowa won the head to head, but that is not a criterion for bowl selection. Penn State has the bigger TV audience—and that may be a criterion.
Possible bowl bids, depending on how the rest of the season pans out for teams that are still playing include the Fiesta, Orange of Cap One Bowls.
Asked about the situation, Paterno responded:
"What do you want me to say?," Paterno asked reporters outside Spartan Stadium. "Pick us. Maybe I could get on the phone and call somebody and say, 'you owe me one,' or 'you might find a horse's head in your bed'."
Well, if it works . . .
Have a Happy Thanksgiving. Don’t eat too much Hokie!
Friday, November 20, 2009
The Land Grant Trophy
Penn State and Michigan State will battle for one of the--if not THE--most ugly trophy in sports history . . . The Land Grant Trophy.
Now, it comes with it's own furniture dolly.
Now, it comes with it's own furniture dolly.
Whoever came up with this design should be severely punished. But apparently there are rational explanations for the appearance of this monstrosity . . .
But the final appearance is really based on a previously existing trophy . . . The LOU GRANT TROPHY . . .
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
By The Numbers: Michigan State
Here are the current NCAA rankings for Penn State and MSU:
Once again, Penn State out-performs its opponent . . . ON PAPER.
Michigan State leads the usual categories . . . special teams. But defensively, the Spartans do not match up well. Note the marked disparity in Red Zone defense--PSU is the best in the country while MSU is one away from being worst. Of course, if we play on special teams like we did last week--the last two weeks--we probably won't have good enough field position to even get close enough to sniff the red zone.
The two offenses are comparable, but PSU has the defensive edge.
There's certainly no indication as the season has gone on that our special teams will improve, so I look for the Spartans to take advantage of field position and keep this game close. Penn State actually is ranked higher in turnover margin, albeit by a slim advantage.
The oddsmakers pick Penn State by 3.
Michigan State is the sixth most difficult team we have faced statistically (see chart below.) I do not include Akron since that was the first game of the season and no stats were available for comparison. These comparisons are based on the teams AT THE TIME WE PLAYED THEM--not current stats. There are no stats for Eastern Illinois either.
| NCAA Stats Comparison | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category: | Penn St. | Michigan St. |
| Rushing | 41 | 67 |
| Passing Offense | 47 | 21 |
| Total Offense | 45 | 34 |
| Scoring Offense | 51 | 30 |
| Rushing Defense | 8 | 24 |
| Turnovers Gained | 56 | 109 |
| Passes Had Intercepted | 59 | 37 |
| Pass Defense | 17 | 94 |
| Net Punting | 114 | 48 |
| Punt Returns | 107 | 60 |
| Kickoff Returns | 113 | 7 |
| Turnover Margin | 61 | 88 |
| Fumbles Recovered | 69 | 69 |
| Passes Intercepted | 36 | 108 |
| Fumbles Lost | 31 | 49 |
| Turnovers Lost | 43 | 35 |
| Passing Efficiency | 36 | 18 |
| Pass Efficiency Defense | 16 | 79 |
| Total Defense | 9 | 50 |
| Scoring Defense | 4 | 56 |
| Fewest Penalties Per Game | 3 | 71 |
| Fewest Yards Penalized Per Game | 3 | 63 |
| Punt Return Yardage Defense | 117 | 59 |
| Kickoff Return Yardage Defense | 57 | 62 |
| Offense Third-down Efficiency | 4 | 70 |
| Offense Fourth-down Efficiency | 55 | 44 |
| Defense Third-down Efficiency | 16 | 90 |
| Defense Fourth-down Efficiency | 12 | 77 |
| Tackles for Loss | 7 | 72 |
| Offense Tackles for Loss | 10 | 25 |
| Pass Sacks | 9 | 19 |
| Pass Sacks Allowed | 18 | 18 |
| Time of Possession | 16 | 82 |
| First Downs | 44 | 42 |
| First Downs Allowed | 10 | 58 |
| Red Zone Efficiency | 28 | 35 |
| Red Zone Efficiency - Defense | 1 | 119 |
| Average NCAA Rank: | 37.11 | 56.46 |
| Weighted Avg. Rank: | 37.42 | 50.75 |
Once again, Penn State out-performs its opponent . . . ON PAPER.
Michigan State leads the usual categories . . . special teams. But defensively, the Spartans do not match up well. Note the marked disparity in Red Zone defense--PSU is the best in the country while MSU is one away from being worst. Of course, if we play on special teams like we did last week--the last two weeks--we probably won't have good enough field position to even get close enough to sniff the red zone.
The two offenses are comparable, but PSU has the defensive edge.
There's certainly no indication as the season has gone on that our special teams will improve, so I look for the Spartans to take advantage of field position and keep this game close. Penn State actually is ranked higher in turnover margin, albeit by a slim advantage.
The oddsmakers pick Penn State by 3.
Michigan State is the sixth most difficult team we have faced statistically (see chart below.) I do not include Akron since that was the first game of the season and no stats were available for comparison. These comparisons are based on the teams AT THE TIME WE PLAYED THEM--not current stats. There are no stats for Eastern Illinois either.
| Opponent | NCAA Rank | PSU Rank | Delta |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio State | 39.41 | 30.41 | -9 |
| Iowa | 47.24 | 42.89 | -4.35 |
| Northwestern | 52.43 | 32.49 | -19.94 |
| THEM | 55.38 | 37.14 | -18.24 |
| Temple | 56.19 | 45.49 | -10.7 |
| Michigan State | 56.46 | 37.11 | -19.35 |
| Syracuse | 59.57 | 37.16 | -22.41 |
| Indiana | 63.49 | 34.7 | -28.79 |
| Minnesota | 64.22 | 39.78 | -24.44 |
| Illinois | 79.11 | 49.38 | -29.73 |
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
The Season Countdown: #5
Here's the countdown from the easiest to the hardest game to win:
12. Eastern Illinois
11. Syracuse
10. Akron
9. Temple
8. Indiana
7. Minnesota
6. THEM
5. Michigan State
Michigan State could be one of the best teams in the Big Ten. They might struggle to get a bowl bid. Such is the lot in East Lansing where you never know which Michigan State team will show up. The Spartans managed to beat Iowa and Northwestern last year--both bowl bound teams--yet struggled against Penn State, Ohio State and lost their bowl game to Georgia 24-12. But they do seem to have more consistency under Dantonio than previously.
But if Penn State's program has questions (O-line, WR and secondary) then Michigan State's is even greater, having to replace both Hoyer at QB and Ringer at RB. The defense will return eight starters, and they should improve with experience, but let's face it--we scored 49 points on them last year.
Factors that favor the Spartans--home field advantage, coming off a road game with Purdue, and the fact that Dantonio was pissed off at Penn State for using its time-outs to honor the seniors last season.
For the Lions, they will be coming off a game with Indiana and Penn State may be mad at Dantonio for using his time outs in a ploy to prolong last year's game and make the fans wait in the cold for their impending celebration of a Big Ten title. Petty? Perhaps, but it is the sort of thing that rivalries can build on.
Michigan State has not beaten PSU at Beaver Stadium since we joined the conference in 1993. Alas, this game will not be played in the Beav. We have lost 4 games in East Lansing while winning 4. We lost the last match-up there, so we're due for another win, right?
Maybe. Maybe not. I'm not convinced that Dantonio has turned the program around, so to speak. They reminded me last year of the Penn State teams under Morelli--good enough to win the easy games, barely good enough to win the games they should win, and just lousy enough not to win any of the big games. Last season they lost to PSU, OSU, Georgia, and California. They beat a ND team that was still struggling, and barely beat a Wisconsin team that Penn State simply dominated. With a new QB and RB, I just don't understand how people feel this team will be in the mix for a Big Ten title. Oh wait. The Big Ten is down this year, so I guess just about anyone can win it?
That said, they're still number 5 on the list, and no easy win by any means.
12. Eastern Illinois
11. Syracuse
10. Akron
9. Temple
8. Indiana
7. Minnesota
6. THEM
5. Michigan State
Michigan State could be one of the best teams in the Big Ten. They might struggle to get a bowl bid. Such is the lot in East Lansing where you never know which Michigan State team will show up. The Spartans managed to beat Iowa and Northwestern last year--both bowl bound teams--yet struggled against Penn State, Ohio State and lost their bowl game to Georgia 24-12. But they do seem to have more consistency under Dantonio than previously.
But if Penn State's program has questions (O-line, WR and secondary) then Michigan State's is even greater, having to replace both Hoyer at QB and Ringer at RB. The defense will return eight starters, and they should improve with experience, but let's face it--we scored 49 points on them last year.
Factors that favor the Spartans--home field advantage, coming off a road game with Purdue, and the fact that Dantonio was pissed off at Penn State for using its time-outs to honor the seniors last season.
For the Lions, they will be coming off a game with Indiana and Penn State may be mad at Dantonio for using his time outs in a ploy to prolong last year's game and make the fans wait in the cold for their impending celebration of a Big Ten title. Petty? Perhaps, but it is the sort of thing that rivalries can build on.
Michigan State has not beaten PSU at Beaver Stadium since we joined the conference in 1993. Alas, this game will not be played in the Beav. We have lost 4 games in East Lansing while winning 4. We lost the last match-up there, so we're due for another win, right?
Maybe. Maybe not. I'm not convinced that Dantonio has turned the program around, so to speak. They reminded me last year of the Penn State teams under Morelli--good enough to win the easy games, barely good enough to win the games they should win, and just lousy enough not to win any of the big games. Last season they lost to PSU, OSU, Georgia, and California. They beat a ND team that was still struggling, and barely beat a Wisconsin team that Penn State simply dominated. With a new QB and RB, I just don't understand how people feel this team will be in the mix for a Big Ten title. Oh wait. The Big Ten is down this year, so I guess just about anyone can win it?
That said, they're still number 5 on the list, and no easy win by any means.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
