Three Lessons From Penn State's Ohio State Loss

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Post on Nov 03, 2024

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Three Lessons From Penn State's Ohio State Loss

Penn State's 30-24 loss to Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship game was a gut-wrenching defeat for Nittany Lion fans. While the game was a tight, hard-fought battle, it also revealed some key areas where Penn State needs to improve moving forward. Here are three major lessons learned from the loss that could shape the team's future:

1. The Need for Offensive Consistency:

The Nittany Lions' offense, while potent at times, suffered from a lack of consistency against Ohio State. Penn State managed to score on their first drive, but stalled out multiple times throughout the game. The inability to maintain momentum offensively against a tough Buckeye defense proved to be the difference maker.

Key Takeaway: Head coach James Franklin and offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich must find ways to create more explosive plays and develop a rhythm on offense. This could involve incorporating more diverse play-calling, building better chemistry between quarterback Sean Clifford and his receivers, and further improving the running game.

2. Defensive Vulnerability Against the Pass:

While Penn State's defense made some big plays against Ohio State, they struggled to contain the Buckeyes' passing attack. C.J. Stroud, the Ohio State quarterback, threw for over 300 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing a dynamic passing game that Penn State's secondary couldn't completely shut down.

Key Takeaway: The Nittany Lions need to improve their ability to defend against potent passing offenses. This might require adjusting defensive schemes, adding speed and coverage skills to the secondary, or even focusing on developing defensive backs who can match up with elite receivers.

3. Mental Toughness in Crucial Moments:

The game was ultimately decided by Ohio State's ability to execute key plays in crunch time. Penn State, on the other hand, made some costly mistakes, including a missed field goal and a fumble in the red zone. These errors highlighted a potential weakness in the team's ability to perform under pressure.

Key Takeaway: The Nittany Lions need to develop a stronger mental edge in critical moments. This requires fostering a culture of resilience and focusing on mental preparation alongside physical training.

Looking Forward:

While the Big Ten Championship loss was a painful experience, it also serves as a valuable learning opportunity for Penn State. By addressing these three key areas, the Nittany Lions can return stronger and more competitive in the upcoming season. With a renewed focus on offensive consistency, defensive improvement, and mental toughness, Penn State has the potential to make a deep run in the 2024 season.