The Penn State Nittany Lions beat the Auburn Tigers 41-12, in their week three matchup. Penn State moves on to a 3-0 undefeated record, after winning at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Alabama. Penn State led at halftime 14-6 then dominated in the second half to win the game. There were a few Penn State standout players that led the team to a victory over Auburn.
Nick Singleton, Runningback
True Freshman, Nick Singleton, has demonstrated why he is a starter for this Penn State Football team. The running back has played in all three games this year and has been a standout player in each game. Singleton attempted 10 rushing plays for 124 yards against Auburn, averaging 12.4 yards per attempt, Singleton’s longest run was for 54 yards. The running back was also responsible for two rushing touchdowns in the game. The true freshman currently has four touchdowns in three games. For the season, Singleton is now at 334 total yards and does not seem, to be slowing down. Only being a true freshman, Singleton can be the best running back for the university since Saquon Barkley and will continue to be a Penn State standout player for years to come.
Ji’Ayir Brown, Safety
Senior safety, Ji’Ayir Brown may have been the most important player on the entire Penn State team today. Brown had four solo tackles, five total, and one sack. Brown also forced one interception and one fumble both in the third quarter. The interception came with four minutes left in the third quarter, preventing a potential scoring opportunity for Auburn. The defense forcing turnovers were essential for the game, and Brown forced two in one quarter, like a true standout player.
Mitchell Tinsley, Wide Reciever
Senior wide receiver Mitchell Tinsley may have only had three receptions throughout the game, but they came at key moments. Tinsley averaged 15.7 yards per catch. Tinsley came up with a clutch 34 yards catch in the first quarter which set up quarterback Sean Clifford for a touchdown. Despite only making three catches, it was the 34 yards, his longest of the game, that helped build the momentum on the offense. Tinsley currently has 158 total yards and two touchdowns this season.
Zakee Wheatley, Corner Back
Freshman corner back, Zakee Wheatley was a big help on the defense with one solo tackle, two total, and one interception. The interception came as the last play in the first quarter, keeping Penn State’s lead at 7-3. The interception was important for the defense, which needed a turnover, to build momentum for the defense. Wheatley was one of two players with an interception, the other coming from another Penn State standout player, Ji’Ayir Brown.
Penn State returns home next Saturday against Central Michigan, in hopes to remain undefeated.
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