In week four of the college football season, Penn State defeated Central Michigan 33-14. Going into the game, Penn State was ranked 14 on the AP Top 25 College Football Poll. The Nittany Lions won by 19 points, demonstrating the strength of their overall team. The win leads them to an undefeated 4-0 record. The question that needs to be debated is if Penn State deserves to be a top ten team.
Week Four vs Central Michigan
Penn State began the game strong scoring 14 points and even had an interception in the first quarter. In the second quarter, Central Michigan tied the game quickly at 14-14. The Nittany Lions got too comfortable too early with their lead. Being tied that quickly was a bad look for Penn State.
Following the 14 points, Penn State’s defense stepped up and the offense was able to score a touchdown before the end of the first half. The defense totaled 171 tackles and two interceptions in the game. Forcing turnovers put Penn State at a great advantage to maintain a win they were expected to have.
Why a Top Ten Team?
Penn State Overcomes Adversities.
Throughout the first four games, there have been moments in all but one where there was cause for worry. The only matchup this did not occur in was week two against the Ohio Bobcats. In their first game vs Purdue, it looked as though Penn State would start their season 0-1. That was until the last two minutes of the game. Each time their games get close, the Nittany Lions regroup and come out with the win. Their games have even gone as far as taking out starting quarterback Sean Clifford and playing freshman Drew Allar in each game so far.
The Running Game
Penn State’s running game has been a threat to each opponent they have faced. True freshman, Nick Singleton has 334 total yards in four games. Singleton is being discussed as the greatest Penn State running back since Saquan Barkley. Between his speed and way to create plays, he is a threat to opponents. The team totals 577 rushing yards this season and it does not seem to be slowing down. With uncertainties at the quarterback position, the Nittany Lions are safe knowing their runningbacks can create big plays.
The Defense
The Penn State defense has been tough for any opponent to face. With only two interceptions, they also forced four fumbles and recovered three. Although the stats may not be high, they have been in key moments. Against Central Michigan, an interception in the second quarter lead to a Penn State touchdown before the end of the half. Not only did this save the Nittany Lions from potentially being down at the half, but this was also the turning point the team needed to get the win. The defense has continuously put pressure on their opponents, getting them off the field quickly.
The Penn State Nittany Lions is overall a good team. With a strong defense and an offense that puts up the yards, they can compete with any opponent and should be considered a top ten team.
Penn State’s next game is at home against the Northwestern Wildcats where they will be looking to go 5-0.
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