Penn State struggles with run game and defence in Big Ten

Summarised from 2 outlets · 3 reports · Updated 14 Oct, 00:02 · Archive

Penn State is winless in Big Ten play, hampered by a struggling running game and weak red zone defence.

Penn State is 0-3 in Big Ten play this season. The Nittany Lions' offensive struggles have been pronounced: they generated 48 yards rushing against Northwestern and 68 against Southern California, averaging about 2 yards per carry in both games. Coach Matt Campbell said the team has not been held to fewer than 100 yards rushing in three straight games since 2021.

The defence has been equally problematic. Penn State's defence is ranked 126th in FBS in red zone defence, allowing opponents to score on 17 of 18 possessions inside the 20-yard line.

Campbell and offensive coordinator Taylor Mouser are exploring solutions. Mouser said the team is considering both scheme tweaks and personnel changes. 'We have to find an answer there,' he said. 'We are a running game without an identity and that's the reality of the situation.' Penn State faces Michigan next, with the Wolverines equally struggling at 0-2 in Big Ten play despite a 3-2 overall record.

How it is being reported

• Penn State's biggest issues after 6 gamesPenn State is 0-3 in the Big Ten for many reasons. Two of the biggest? The Nittany Lions can't run the ball, and Matt Campbell's team has struggled to stop the run.PennLive · 13 Oct, 22:57
• Penn State, winless in the Big 10, is looking for answers up front with trip to Michigan loomingSTATE COLLEGE — Even though Penn State’s results don’t show it, Matt Campbell believes his team is making progress.TribLIVE · 13 Oct, 22:00
• Three stats that explain Penn State's 0-3 record in Big TenPenn State's defene is ranked 126th in FBS in red zone defense. The Lions have allowed opponents to score on 17 of 18 posssesions inside the PSU 20-yard line.PennLive · 13 Oct, 19:09

In this story: Penn State · Matt Campbell · Michigan · Taylor Mouser · Northwestern · Southern California

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem