Obli's Observations

[Obliviax]

a little late but I can't help myself given several of the comments.

One has to look at the stats:

• We had the same rushing totals regardless of the fact that we ran five fewer running plays than they did. So given the complaints about our run defense, it felt worse than it was.
• We passed them in passing offense 332 to 162. quite a difference
• No turnovers by either team
• One penalty for five yards. I did see a blatant hold on PSU that wasn't called and the WVU coach complained about lack of holding calls on PSU.
• Love our kickoff specialist. HUGE

Positives

• I was very high on Allar coming in and he exceeded all of my expectations. Presence, running, passing, all of it. I was thrilled with SC's Rose Bowl performance but I felt like Allar, in his first start as a true second-year student was even better. One thing I didn't previously post is the first TD pass. On one view, you can see Allar get flushed from the pocket. At that time, you could see the WR streaking right to left but the S was still to the left of the player. But you could see the S was flat-footed and the WR would streak by him. IIRC, it looked like Allar released the ball when the WR was still to the right of the S but the ball landed when he was to the left of the S. Pretty awesome awareness when under duress.
• Running backs still look like two of the best in the game. Rarely do they lose yards and I almost always feel they take the correct lane (easier for me to see than them)
• I thought the team played with high energy. Especially the defense really flowed to the ball.
• I also thought the WRs looked good. I know there were a couple of drops but many of these guys saw their first prime time play in this level of play. I am talking about the portal guys. I was also impressed by Clifford's quickness, which I didn't expect.
• The PSU brand was just a level beyond anything I saw this weekend. Just great. You could feel the energy.

Negatives

• FG kicking, obviously. Now, it didn't look like any of the four attempts were mis-hit. All of them were struck well. However, the second-half kicks were all 100% solid.
• Punting. I think we only punted twice but the average was pretty weak. For this level of team, we should do better. Ohio U's punter was outstanding.
• Lots of high snaps on offense. Looked like no damage was done but Allar did a nice job of handling them and not letting them affect the handoff. But they may have, it is hard to tell from here.
• Obviously, our Defensive middle was a little weak but given it was game one, not too much to conclude. Clearly, that is WVUs strength and, again, when you look at the game stats if felt worse than it really was.
• Not a ton of production from the TEs but now knowing that WVU played a cover zero (max rush) and that forced PSU to use max protect (TEs' pass blocking) that makes sense. I would guess that teams watching the WVU video won't commit to making Allar beat them (because he will).
• I am not sure what happened when we had to burn a timeout. It looked like Allar wasn't getting the play. It cost us a play at the end when we were going for a TD and ended up having to kick a FG, which we missed.

MIsc.

• I don't know how you defend our offense if we perform to that standard. Going in, we had question marks at WR and I think they all look really good. And we have a number 1 guy. We know the TEs and RBs are solid. On the OL, we'll get better.
• CJF looked really pissed off when they showed him just after the clock expired. I am not sure why. was it before or after the handshake? Did the WVU coach say something? Was it a player? Not sure but he seemed aggravated.
• Every talking head I listened to was very complimentary of PSU, the team, and the atmosphere. Everyone. Really cool to watch and see.
• I thought blackledge missed the call when he said allar missed the slant. Fact is, it was low but above the knees. You gotta catch that. I know the low throw could have hampered the ability to make it a long gainer, but it was a very catchable ball and I am sure the WR knows that.
• The only bad throw, I saw, was when the WR broke up an INT. That was a big and heady play by him.
• first day with the OC in the booth. Could that have contributed to some confusion getting calls into the O? I thought the play calling was good.
• Nothing with both Kaytron and Singleton in the same backfield
• How long before we see a bootleg or pass from the short-yardage wing T? I also have to think a QB sneak, with some pushers, would work in short yardage, especially since we always run off tackle from that formation.

 

[bcspsu]

a little late but I can't help myself given several of the comments.

One has to look at the stats:

• We had the same rushing totals regardless of the fact that we ran five fewer running plays than they did. So given the complaints about our run defense, it felt worse than it was.
• We passed them in passing offense 332 to 162. quite a difference
• No turnovers by either team
• One penalty for five yards. I did see a blatant hold on PSU that wasn't called and the WVU coach complained about lack of holding calls on PSU.
• Love our kickoff specialist. HUGE

Positives

• I was very high on Allar coming in and he exceeded all of my expectations. Presence, running, passing, all of it. I was thrilled with SC's Rose Bowl performance but I felt like Allar, in his first start as a true second-year student was even better. One thing I didn't previously post is the first TD pass. On one view, you can see Allar get flushed from the pocket. At that time, you could see the WR streaking right to left but the S was still to the left of the player. But you could see the S was flat-footed and the WR would streak by him. IIRC, it looked like Allar released the ball when the WR was still to the right of the S but the ball landed when he was to the left of the S. Pretty awesome awareness when under duress.
• Running backs still look like two of the best in the game. Rarely do they lose yards and I almost always feel they take the correct lane (easier for me to see than them)
• I thought the team played with high energy. Especially the defense really flowed to the ball.
• I also thought the WRs looked good. I know there were a couple of drops but many of these guys saw their first prime time play in this level of play. I am talking about the portal guys. I was also impressed by Clifford's quickness, which I didn't expect.
• The PSU brand was just a level beyond anything I saw this weekend. Just great. You could feel the energy.

Negatives

• FG kicking, obviously. Now, it didn't look like any of the four attempts were mis-hit. All of them were struck well. However, the second-half kicks were all 100% solid.
• Punting. I think we only punted twice but the average was pretty weak. For this level of team, we should do better. Ohio U's punter was outstanding.
• Lots of high snaps on offense. Looked like no damage was done but Allar did a nice job of handling them and not letting them affect the handoff. But they may have, it is hard to tell from here.
• Obviously, our Defensive middle was a little weak but given it was game one, not too much to conclude. Clearly, that is WVUs strength and, again, when you look at the game stats if felt worse than it really was.
• Not a ton of production from the TEs but now knowing that WVU played a cover zero (max rush) and that forced PSU to use max protect (TEs' pass blocking) that makes sense. I would guess that teams watching the WVU video won't commit to making Allar beat them (because he will).
• I am not sure what happened when we had to burn a timeout. It looked like Allar wasn't getting the play. It cost us a play at the end when we were going for a TD and ended up having to kick a FG, which we missed.

MIsc.

• I don't know how you defend our offense if we perform to that standard. Going in, we had question marks at WR and I think they all look really good. And we have a number 1 guy. We know the TEs and RBs are solid. On the OL, we'll get better.
• CJF looked really pissed off when they showed him just after the clock expired. I am not sure why. was it before or after the handshake? Did the WVU coach say something? Was it a player? Not sure but he seemed aggravated.
• Every talking head I listened to was very complimentary of PSU, the team, and the atmosphere. Everyone. Really cool to watch and see.
• I thought blackledge missed the call when he said allar missed the slant. Fact is, it was low but above the knees. You gotta catch that. I know the low throw could have hampered the ability to make it a long gainer, but it was a very catchable ball and I am sure the WR knows that.
• The only bad throw, I saw, was when the WR broke up an INT. That was a big and heady play by him.
• first day with the OC in the booth. Could that have contributed to some confusion getting calls into the O? I thought the play calling was good.
• Nothing with both Kaytron and Singleton in the same backfield
• How long before we see a bootleg or pass from the short-yardage wing T? I also have to think a QB sneak, with some pushers, would work in short yardage, especially since we always run off tackle from that formation.

Regarding the two missed field goals, like you said, they were well struck and didn't miss by much. With that said, you have to make those field goals. However, my guess is that that will improve and it appears as if the first kicker has the ability to make longer field goals.

 

[ryoder1]

Great recap. Allar had a great game. One other note on nitpicking his performance. When it was 21-7 and we were in the red zone maybe at their 10 or something, a pass to the right flat for Wallace was called. He missed him and if he hits him it probably is a TD because Warren just drove the DB back into the third row, all green to waltz in.

I think Franklin was pissed at the end because I think a little extracurricular activity was going on at the end of the last play.

I am more pessimistic than you about our defensive middle, especially the DTs. The eye test was not good, they looked out of position and unable to beat their man. I would have thought the speed advantage we had would have made for at least a few disruptive plays but really didn't see much from them. I get the WVU offensive line is good and they have some NFL talent but they are not as good as we made them look. Ready for Durant and van den Berg to break out and show us some things. Hopefully Izzard gets in.

 

[Obliviax]

Great recap. Allar had a great game. One other note on nitpicking his performance. When it was 21-7 and we were in the red zone maybe at their 10 or something, a pass to the right flat for Wallace was called. He missed him and if he hits him it probably is a TD because Warren just drove the DB back into the third row, all green to waltz in.

I think Franklin was pissed at the end because I think a little extracurricular activity was going on at the end of the last play.

I am more pessimistic than you about our defensive middle, especially the DTs. The eye test was not good, they looked out of position and unable to beat their man. I would have thought the speed advantage we had would have made for at least a few disruptive plays but really didn't see much from them. I get the WVU offensive line is good and they have some NFL talent but they are not as good as we made them look. Ready for Durant and van den Berg to break out and show us some things. Hopefully Izzard gets in.

Good stuff.

I AM concerned about the middle of our D. Having said that we aren't going to see that many All-American Centers with 240 lb running backs. Illinois & Iowa will be interesting. But it will come down to tOSU and Michigan. I think we can outscore Iowa and Illinois if the run D isn't solid. But the other two are horses of a different color.

 

[OKLionFan]

a little late but I can't help myself given several of the comments.

One has to look at the stats:

• We had the same rushing totals regardless of the fact that we ran five fewer running plays than they did. So given the complaints about our run defense, it felt worse than it was.
• We passed them in passing offense 332 to 162. quite a difference
• No turnovers by either team
• One penalty for five yards. I did see a blatant hold on PSU that wasn't called and the WVU coach complained about lack of holding calls on PSU.
• Love our kickoff specialist. HUGE

Positives

• I was very high on Allar coming in and he exceeded all of my expectations. Presence, running, passing, all of it. I was thrilled with SC's Rose Bowl performance but I felt like Allar, in his first start as a true second-year student was even better. One thing I didn't previously post is the first TD pass. On one view, you can see Allar get flushed from the pocket. At that time, you could see the WR streaking right to left but the S was still to the left of the player. But you could see the S was flat-footed and the WR would streak by him. IIRC, it looked like Allar released the ball when the WR was still to the right of the S but the ball landed when he was to the left of the S. Pretty awesome awareness when under duress.
• Running backs still look like two of the best in the game. Rarely do they lose yards and I almost always feel they take the correct lane (easier for me to see than them)
• I thought the team played with high energy. Especially the defense really flowed to the ball.
• I also thought the WRs looked good. I know there were a couple of drops but many of these guys saw their first prime time play in this level of play. I am talking about the portal guys. I was also impressed by Clifford's quickness, which I didn't expect.
• The PSU brand was just a level beyond anything I saw this weekend. Just great. You could feel the energy.

Negatives

• FG kicking, obviously. Now, it didn't look like any of the four attempts were mis-hit. All of them were struck well. However, the second-half kicks were all 100% solid.
• Punting. I think we only punted twice but the average was pretty weak. For this level of team, we should do better. Ohio U's punter was outstanding.
• Lots of high snaps on offense. Looked like no damage was done but Allar did a nice job of handling them and not letting them affect the handoff. But they may have, it is hard to tell from here.
• Obviously, our Defensive middle was a little weak but given it was game one, not too much to conclude. Clearly, that is WVUs strength and, again, when you look at the game stats if felt worse than it really was.
• Not a ton of production from the TEs but now knowing that WVU played a cover zero (max rush) and that forced PSU to use max protect (TEs' pass blocking) that makes sense. I would guess that teams watching the WVU video won't commit to making Allar beat them (because he will).
• I am not sure what happened when we had to burn a timeout. It looked like Allar wasn't getting the play. It cost us a play at the end when we were going for a TD and ended up having to kick a FG, which we missed.

MIsc.

• I don't know how you defend our offense if we perform to that standard. Going in, we had question marks at WR and I think they all look really good. And we have a number 1 guy. We know the TEs and RBs are solid. On the OL, we'll get better.
• CJF looked really pissed off when they showed him just after the clock expired. I am not sure why. was it before or after the handshake? Did the WVU coach say something? Was it a player? Not sure but he seemed aggravated.
• Every talking head I listened to was very complimentary of PSU, the team, and the atmosphere. Everyone. Really cool to watch and see.
• I thought blackledge missed the call when he said allar missed the slant. Fact is, it was low but above the knees. You gotta catch that. I know the low throw could have hampered the ability to make it a long gainer, but it was a very catchable ball and I am sure the WR knows that.
• The only bad throw, I saw, was when the WR broke up an INT. That was a big and heady play by him.
• first day with the OC in the booth. Could that have contributed to some confusion getting calls into the O? I thought the play calling was good.
• Nothing with both Kaytron and Singleton in the same backfield
• How long before we see a bootleg or pass from the short-yardage wing T? I also have to think a QB sneak, with some pushers, would work in short yardage, especially since we always run off tackle from that formation.

Thanks for the great review. I’m pretty sure Kaytron and Nick were both on the field along with Tyler Warren for Nicks TD. Otherwise spot on.

 

[brupsu]

a little late but I can't help myself given several of the comments.

One has to look at the stats:

• We had the same rushing totals regardless of the fact that we ran five fewer running plays than they did. So given the complaints about our run defense, it felt worse than it was.
• We passed them in passing offense 332 to 162. quite a difference
• No turnovers by either team
• One penalty for five yards. I did see a blatant hold on PSU that wasn't called and the WVU coach complained about lack of holding calls on PSU.
• Love our kickoff specialist. HUGE

Positives

• I was very high on Allar coming in and he exceeded all of my expectations. Presence, running, passing, all of it. I was thrilled with SC's Rose Bowl performance but I felt like Allar, in his first start as a true second-year student was even better. One thing I didn't previously post is the first TD pass. On one view, you can see Allar get flushed from the pocket. At that time, you could see the WR streaking right to left but the S was still to the left of the player. But you could see the S was flat-footed and the WR would streak by him. IIRC, it looked like Allar released the ball when the WR was still to the right of the S but the ball landed when he was to the left of the S. Pretty awesome awareness when under duress.
• Running backs still look like two of the best in the game. Rarely do they lose yards and I almost always feel they take the correct lane (easier for me to see than them)
• I thought the team played with high energy. Especially the defense really flowed to the ball.
• I also thought the WRs looked good. I know there were a couple of drops but many of these guys saw their first prime time play in this level of play. I am talking about the portal guys. I was also impressed by Clifford's quickness, which I didn't expect.
• The PSU brand was just a level beyond anything I saw this weekend. Just great. You could feel the energy.

Negatives

• FG kicking, obviously. Now, it didn't look like any of the four attempts were mis-hit. All of them were struck well. However, the second-half kicks were all 100% solid.
• Punting. I think we only punted twice but the average was pretty weak. For this level of team, we should do better. Ohio U's punter was outstanding.
• Lots of high snaps on offense. Looked like no damage was done but Allar did a nice job of handling them and not letting them affect the handoff. But they may have, it is hard to tell from here.
• Obviously, our Defensive middle was a little weak but given it was game one, not too much to conclude. Clearly, that is WVUs strength and, again, when you look at the game stats if felt worse than it really was.
• Not a ton of production from the TEs but now knowing that WVU played a cover zero (max rush) and that forced PSU to use max protect (TEs' pass blocking) that makes sense. I would guess that teams watching the WVU video won't commit to making Allar beat them (because he will).
• I am not sure what happened when we had to burn a timeout. It looked like Allar wasn't getting the play. It cost us a play at the end when we were going for a TD and ended up having to kick a FG, which we missed.

MIsc.

• I don't know how you defend our offense if we perform to that standard. Going in, we had question marks at WR and I think they all look really good. And we have a number 1 guy. We know the TEs and RBs are solid. On the OL, we'll get better.
• CJF looked really pissed off when they showed him just after the clock expired. I am not sure why. was it before or after the handshake? Did the WVU coach say something? Was it a player? Not sure but he seemed aggravated.
• Every talking head I listened to was very complimentary of PSU, the team, and the atmosphere. Everyone. Really cool to watch and see.
• I thought blackledge missed the call when he said allar missed the slant. Fact is, it was low but above the knees. You gotta catch that. I know the low throw could have hampered the ability to make it a long gainer, but it was a very catchable ball and I am sure the WR knows that.
• The only bad throw, I saw, was when the WR broke up an INT. That was a big and heady play by him.
• first day with the OC in the booth. Could that have contributed to some confusion getting calls into the O? I thought the play calling was good.
• Nothing with both Kaytron and Singleton in the same backfield
• How long before we see a bootleg or pass from the short-yardage wing T? I also have to think a QB sneak, with some pushers, would work in short yardage, especially since we always run off tackle from that formation.

Agree with the high snaps .Hard to put it over his head but several were close.Sure that will be worked out.Kids a gunslinger but looks like a cherub.What a start.

 

[Fayette_LION]

a little late but I can't help myself given several of the comments.

One has to look at the stats:

• We had the same rushing totals regardless of the fact that we ran five fewer running plays than they did. So given the complaints about our run defense, it felt worse than it was.
• We passed them in passing offense 332 to 162. quite a difference
• No turnovers by either team
• One penalty for five yards. I did see a blatant hold on PSU that wasn't called and the WVU coach complained about lack of holding calls on PSU.
• Love our kickoff specialist. HUGE

Positives

• I was very high on Allar coming in and he exceeded all of my expectations. Presence, running, passing, all of it. I was thrilled with SC's Rose Bowl performance but I felt like Allar, in his first start as a true second-year student was even better. One thing I didn't previously post is the first TD pass. On one view, you can see Allar get flushed from the pocket. At that time, you could see the WR streaking right to left but the S was still to the left of the player. But you could see the S was flat-footed and the WR would streak by him. IIRC, it looked like Allar released the ball when the WR was still to the right of the S but the ball landed when he was to the left of the S. Pretty awesome awareness when under duress.
• Running backs still look like two of the best in the game. Rarely do they lose yards and I almost always feel they take the correct lane (easier for me to see than them)
• I thought the team played with high energy. Especially the defense really flowed to the ball.
• I also thought the WRs looked good. I know there were a couple of drops but many of these guys saw their first prime time play in this level of play. I am talking about the portal guys. I was also impressed by Clifford's quickness, which I didn't expect.
• The PSU brand was just a level beyond anything I saw this weekend. Just great. You could feel the energy.

Negatives

• FG kicking, obviously. Now, it didn't look like any of the four attempts were mis-hit. All of them were struck well. However, the second-half kicks were all 100% solid.
• Punting. I think we only punted twice but the average was pretty weak. For this level of team, we should do better. Ohio U's punter was outstanding.
• Lots of high snaps on offense. Looked like no damage was done but Allar did a nice job of handling them and not letting them affect the handoff. But they may have, it is hard to tell from here.
• Obviously, our Defensive middle was a little weak but given it was game one, not too much to conclude. Clearly, that is WVUs strength and, again, when you look at the game stats if felt worse than it really was.
• Not a ton of production from the TEs but now knowing that WVU played a cover zero (max rush) and that forced PSU to use max protect (TEs' pass blocking) that makes sense. I would guess that teams watching the WVU video won't commit to making Allar beat them (because he will).
• I am not sure what happened when we had to burn a timeout. It looked like Allar wasn't getting the play. It cost us a play at the end when we were going for a TD and ended up having to kick a FG, which we missed.

MIsc.

• I don't know how you defend our offense if we perform to that standard. Going in, we had question marks at WR and I think they all look really good. And we have a number 1 guy. We know the TEs and RBs are solid. On the OL, we'll get better.
• CJF looked really pissed off when they showed him just after the clock expired. I am not sure why. was it before or after the handshake? Did the WVU coach say something? Was it a player? Not sure but he seemed aggravated.
• Every talking head I listened to was very complimentary of PSU, the team, and the atmosphere. Everyone. Really cool to watch and see.
• I thought blackledge missed the call when he said allar missed the slant. Fact is, it was low but above the knees. You gotta catch that. I know the low throw could have hampered the ability to make it a long gainer, but it was a very catchable ball and I am sure the WR knows that.
• The only bad throw, I saw, was when the WR broke up an INT. That was a big and heady play by him.
• first day with the OC in the booth. Could that have contributed to some confusion getting calls into the O? I thought the play calling was good.
• Nothing with both Kaytron and Singleton in the same backfield
• How long before we see a bootleg or pass from the short-yardage wing T? I also have to think a QB sneak, with some pushers, would work in short yardage, especially since we always run off tackle from that formation.

On the negative side, our tackling was not good and needs to improve, especially D line and LBers.

 

[Obliviax]

On the negative side, our tackling was not good and needs to improve, especially D line and LBers.

I forgot to add that. Thanks.

Yes, several tackles were missed but most were on the 240 lb RB. He is only 6' 1" so he has a very low center of gravity and takes a bit to get him down. So I am hopeful we do better with more conventional RBs. I was a little miffed when Carter when for the kill shot on their QB and missed. You've got to know situational football. It was third down and the hit was going to take place five yards short of the line to gain. Carter came in hot. Green gave him a little shake and bake and got the first down. In that situation, the defender has to break down and defend the line to gain. I chocked that up as still being young and in the first game of the year.

 

[lazydave841]

Thanks for the great review. I’m pretty sure Kaytron and Nick were both on the field along with Tyler Warren for Nicks TD. Otherwise spot on.

I believe he's specifically talking about the 2 RB set with Allar in the shotgun, not our Power T per se.

 

[91Joe95]

On the negative side, our tackling was not good and needs to improve, especially D line and LBers.

After almost a decade I am afraid the poor tackling technique is not going to change.

 

[91Joe95]

How long before we see a bootleg or pass from the short-yardage wing T? I also have to think a QB sneak, with some pushers, would work in short yardage, especially since we always run off tackle from that formation.

I would not be surprised if the short yardage under center plays disappear after about week 3 like last year, which is a shame because I think this offense could be much more effective with some play action passes. Between the RBs and Allar defenses would have to respect a potential run before dropping back in coverage. As is they can see everything in the backfield. And stop with the RB so far behind the QB while in shotgun - that is a long way until the RB gets to the LOS on a handoff.

 

[Woodpecker]

Ohio U's punter was outstanding.

I had to look it up because I didn't see their game against LIU but he averaged less than the Penn State punter. WVU's punter looked pretty good on the other hand.

 

[Obliviax]

I had to look it up because I didn't see their game against LIU but he averaged less than the Penn State punter. WVU's punter looked pretty good on the other hand.

I think I confused him with the San Diego State punter. He had three and averaged over 56 yards per punt.

 

[Marylovesthelions]

Regarding the two missed field goals, like you said, they were well struck and didn't miss by much. With that said, you have to make those field goals. However, my guess is that that will improve and it appears as if the first kicker has the ability to make longer field goals.

I just thought of Ficken and Gesicki (sp). Don't give up on him.

 

[CJFisJoePaII]

a little late but I can't help myself given several of the comments.

One has to look at the stats:

• We had the same rushing totals regardless of the fact that we ran five fewer running plays than they did. So given the complaints about our run defense, it felt worse than it was.
• We passed them in passing offense 332 to 162. quite a difference
• No turnovers by either team
• One penalty for five yards. I did see a blatant hold on PSU that wasn't called and the WVU coach complained about lack of holding calls on PSU.
• Love our kickoff specialist. HUGE

Positives

• I was very high on Allar coming in and he exceeded all of my expectations. Presence, running, passing, all of it. I was thrilled with SC's Rose Bowl performance but I felt like Allar, in his first start as a true second-year student was even better. One thing I didn't previously post is the first TD pass. On one view, you can see Allar get flushed from the pocket. At that time, you could see the WR streaking right to left but the S was still to the left of the player. But you could see the S was flat-footed and the WR would streak by him. IIRC, it looked like Allar released the ball when the WR was still to the right of the S but the ball landed when he was to the left of the S. Pretty awesome awareness when under duress.
• Running backs still look like two of the best in the game. Rarely do they lose yards and I almost always feel they take the correct lane (easier for me to see than them)
• I thought the team played with high energy. Especially the defense really flowed to the ball.
• I also thought the WRs looked good. I know there were a couple of drops but many of these guys saw their first prime time play in this level of play. I am talking about the portal guys. I was also impressed by Clifford's quickness, which I didn't expect.
• The PSU brand was just a level beyond anything I saw this weekend. Just great. You could feel the energy.

Negatives

• FG kicking, obviously. Now, it didn't look like any of the four attempts were mis-hit. All of them were struck well. However, the second-half kicks were all 100% solid.
• Punting. I think we only punted twice but the average was pretty weak. For this level of team, we should do better. Ohio U's punter was outstanding.
• Lots of high snaps on offense. Looked like no damage was done but Allar did a nice job of handling them and not letting them affect the handoff. But they may have, it is hard to tell from here.
• Obviously, our Defensive middle was a little weak but given it was game one, not too much to conclude. Clearly, that is WVUs strength and, again, when you look at the game stats if felt worse than it really was.
• Not a ton of production from the TEs but now knowing that WVU played a cover zero (max rush) and that forced PSU to use max protect (TEs' pass blocking) that makes sense. I would guess that teams watching the WVU video won't commit to making Allar beat them (because he will).
• I am not sure what happened when we had to burn a timeout. It looked like Allar wasn't getting the play. It cost us a play at the end when we were going for a TD and ended up having to kick a FG, which we missed.

MIsc.

• I don't know how you defend our offense if we perform to that standard. Going in, we had question marks at WR and I think they all look really good. And we have a number 1 guy. We know the TEs and RBs are solid. On the OL, we'll get better.
• CJF looked really pissed off when they showed him just after the clock expired. I am not sure why. was it before or after the handshake? Did the WVU coach say something? Was it a player? Not sure but he seemed aggravated.
• Every talking head I listened to was very complimentary of PSU, the team, and the atmosphere. Everyone. Really cool to watch and see.
• I thought blackledge missed the call when he said allar missed the slant. Fact is, it was low but above the knees. You gotta catch that. I know the low throw could have hampered the ability to make it a long gainer, but it was a very catchable ball and I am sure the WR knows that.
• The only bad throw, I saw, was when the WR broke up an INT. That was a big and heady play by him.
• first day with the OC in the booth. Could that have contributed to some confusion getting calls into the O? I thought the play calling was good.
• Nothing with both Kaytron and Singleton in the same backfield
• How long before we see a bootleg or pass from the short-yardage wing T? I also have to think a QB sneak, with some pushers, would work in short yardage, especially since we always run off tackle from that formation.

They're definitely going to run a pass to the TE off play-action fake off that goal-line Power Wing-T formation. Also, I believe both Allen and Singleton were in the formation on Singleton's TD.

 

[ncgolfer]

I love the way Allar has shown dramatic improvement after both of his spring ball sessions. Somebody is doing a damn good job with him.

 

[bvillebaron]

a little late but I can't help myself given several of the comments.

One has to look at the stats:

• We had the same rushing totals regardless of the fact that we ran five fewer running plays than they did. So given the complaints about our run defense, it felt worse than it was.
• We passed them in passing offense 332 to 162. quite a difference
• No turnovers by either team
• One penalty for five yards. I did see a blatant hold on PSU that wasn't called and the WVU coach complained about lack of holding calls on PSU.
• Love our kickoff specialist. HUGE

Positives

• I was very high on Allar coming in and he exceeded all of my expectations. Presence, running, passing, all of it. I was thrilled with SC's Rose Bowl performance but I felt like Allar, in his first start as a true second-year student was even better. One thing I didn't previously post is the first TD pass. On one view, you can see Allar get flushed from the pocket. At that time, you could see the WR streaking right to left but the S was still to the left of the player. But you could see the S was flat-footed and the WR would streak by him. IIRC, it looked like Allar released the ball when the WR was still to the right of the S but the ball landed when he was to the left of the S. Pretty awesome awareness when under duress.
• Running backs still look like two of the best in the game. Rarely do they lose yards and I almost always feel they take the correct lane (easier for me to see than them)
• I thought the team played with high energy. Especially the defense really flowed to the ball.
• I also thought the WRs looked good. I know there were a couple of drops but many of these guys saw their first prime time play in this level of play. I am talking about the portal guys. I was also impressed by Clifford's quickness, which I didn't expect.
• The PSU brand was just a level beyond anything I saw this weekend. Just great. You could feel the energy.

Negatives

• FG kicking, obviously. Now, it didn't look like any of the four attempts were mis-hit. All of them were struck well. However, the second-half kicks were all 100% solid.
• Punting. I think we only punted twice but the average was pretty weak. For this level of team, we should do better. Ohio U's punter was outstanding.
• Lots of high snaps on offense. Looked like no damage was done but Allar did a nice job of handling them and not letting them affect the handoff. But they may have, it is hard to tell from here.
• Obviously, our Defensive middle was a little weak but given it was game one, not too much to conclude. Clearly, that is WVUs strength and, again, when you look at the game stats if felt worse than it really was.
• Not a ton of production from the TEs but now knowing that WVU played a cover zero (max rush) and that forced PSU to use max protect (TEs' pass blocking) that makes sense. I would guess that teams watching the WVU video won't commit to making Allar beat them (because he will).
• I am not sure what happened when we had to burn a timeout. It looked like Allar wasn't getting the play. It cost us a play at the end when we were going for a TD and ended up having to kick a FG, which we missed.

MIsc.

• I don't know how you defend our offense if we perform to that standard. Going in, we had question marks at WR and I think they all look really good. And we have a number 1 guy. We know the TEs and RBs are solid. On the OL, we'll get better.
• CJF looked really pissed off when they showed him just after the clock expired. I am not sure why. was it before or after the handshake? Did the WVU coach say something? Was it a player? Not sure but he seemed aggravated.
• Every talking head I listened to was very complimentary of PSU, the team, and the atmosphere. Everyone. Really cool to watch and see.
• I thought blackledge missed the call when he said allar missed the slant. Fact is, it was low but above the knees. You gotta catch that. I know the low throw could have hampered the ability to make it a long gainer, but it was a very catchable ball and I am sure the WR knows that.
• The only bad throw, I saw, was when the WR broke up an INT. That was a big and heady play by him.
• first day with the OC in the booth. Could that have contributed to some confusion getting calls into the O? I thought the play calling was good.
• Nothing with both Kaytron and Singleton in the same backfield
• How long before we see a bootleg or pass from the short-yardage wing T? I also have to think a QB sneak, with some pushers, would work in short yardage, especially since we always run off tackle from that formation.

Excellent recap Obli. I also was disappointed with the success WVU had running especially in the first half. But considering the fact that WVU’s strength was its OL and the fact that a 240 lb RB was running behind it, the final stats suggest that it wasn’t as bad as it appeared

 

[Online Persona]

Excellent recap Obli. I also was disappointed with the success WVU had running especially in the first half. But considering the fact that WVU’s strength was its OL and the fact that a 240 lb RB was running behind it, the final stats suggest that it wasn’t as bad as it appeared

And I think you correctly noted that it seemed to improve in the 2nd half. I think we made some corrections/adjustments and were fine. Better to experience that now than in conference games that may be tight. Perhaps we even learned some things that will help down the road.

 

[PSUcup1]

The high snaps need to get fixed. They throw off the timing of the play

 

[SR108]

a little late but I can't help myself given several of the comments.

One has to look at the stats:

• We had the same rushing totals regardless of the fact that we ran five fewer running plays than they did. So given the complaints about our run defense, it felt worse than it was.
• We passed them in passing offense 332 to 162. quite a difference
• No turnovers by either team
• One penalty for five yards. I did see a blatant hold on PSU that wasn't called and the WVU coach complained about lack of holding calls on PSU.
• Love our kickoff specialist. HUGE

Positives

• I was very high on Allar coming in and he exceeded all of my expectations. Presence, running, passing, all of it. I was thrilled with SC's Rose Bowl performance but I felt like Allar, in his first start as a true second-year student was even better. One thing I didn't previously post is the first TD pass. On one view, you can see Allar get flushed from the pocket. At that time, you could see the WR streaking right to left but the S was still to the left of the player. But you could see the S was flat-footed and the WR would streak by him. IIRC, it looked like Allar released the ball when the WR was still to the right of the S but the ball landed when he was to the left of the S. Pretty awesome awareness when under duress.
• Running backs still look like two of the best in the game. Rarely do they lose yards and I almost always feel they take the correct lane (easier for me to see than them)
• I thought the team played with high energy. Especially the defense really flowed to the ball.
• I also thought the WRs looked good. I know there were a couple of drops but many of these guys saw their first prime time play in this level of play. I am talking about the portal guys. I was also impressed by Clifford's quickness, which I didn't expect.
• The PSU brand was just a level beyond anything I saw this weekend. Just great. You could feel the energy.

Negatives

• FG kicking, obviously. Now, it didn't look like any of the four attempts were mis-hit. All of them were struck well. However, the second-half kicks were all 100% solid.
• Punting. I think we only punted twice but the average was pretty weak. For this level of team, we should do better. Ohio U's punter was outstanding.
• Lots of high snaps on offense. Looked like no damage was done but Allar did a nice job of handling them and not letting them affect the handoff. But they may have, it is hard to tell from here.
• Obviously, our Defensive middle was a little weak but given it was game one, not too much to conclude. Clearly, that is WVUs strength and, again, when you look at the game stats if felt worse than it really was.
• Not a ton of production from the TEs but now knowing that WVU played a cover zero (max rush) and that forced PSU to use max protect (TEs' pass blocking) that makes sense. I would guess that teams watching the WVU video won't commit to making Allar beat them (because he will).
• I am not sure what happened when we had to burn a timeout. It looked like Allar wasn't getting the play. It cost us a play at the end when we were going for a TD and ended up having to kick a FG, which we missed.

MIsc.

• I don't know how you defend our offense if we perform to that standard. Going in, we had question marks at WR and I think they all look really good. And we have a number 1 guy. We know the TEs and RBs are solid. On the OL, we'll get better.
• CJF looked really pissed off when they showed him just after the clock expired. I am not sure why. was it before or after the handshake? Did the WVU coach say something? Was it a player? Not sure but he seemed aggravated.
• Every talking head I listened to was very complimentary of PSU, the team, and the atmosphere. Everyone. Really cool to watch and see.
• I thought blackledge missed the call when he said allar missed the slant. Fact is, it was low but above the knees. You gotta catch that. I know the low throw could have hampered the ability to make it a long gainer, but it was a very catchable ball and I am sure the WR knows that.
• The only bad throw, I saw, was when the WR broke up an INT. That was a big and heady play by him.
• first day with the OC in the booth. Could that have contributed to some confusion getting calls into the O? I thought the play calling was good.
• Nothing with both Kaytron and Singleton in the same backfield
• How long before we see a bootleg or pass from the short-yardage wing T? I also have to think a QB sneak, with some pushers, would work in short yardage, especially since we always run off tackle from that formation.

Much of their rush yardage was their QB. Good athlete. Once we were up by 2 scores they had to start throwing the ball.

Manny slants and stunts the tackles a lot. They end up taking themselves out of the play. The linebackers need to do a better job of filling the vacated gaps when the tackles slant. We also need to do a better job trailing the backside of the play. Their running back cut it back for some decent gains when we had the front side covered.
Would like to see if our tackles can play teams straight up with out getting blown off the ball instead of all the slants.

 

[lazydave841]

Manny slants and stunts the tackle a lot

Would like to see if our tackles can play teams straight up with out getting blown off the ball instead of all the slants.

I'd have to go back and watch some of the snaps, but we played a very vanilla game vs WVU. A lot of 2 high safeties vs a team that didn't have the ability to throw deep nor a WR who was fast enough to make us pay. Take away the 17 yard run on 1st and 20, and we held Donaldson to 17/64 (good call by Brown, we seemed to sit back expecting a pass). We completely shut down his backup (5 for 7 yards), which is unusual in comparison, but perhaps Manny wanted to test our LBs early.

 

[SR108]

I'd have to go back and watch some of the snaps, but we played a very vanilla game vs WVU. A lot of 2 high safeties vs a team that didn't have the ability to throw deep nor a WR who was fast enough to make us pay. Take away the 17 yard run on 1st and 20, and we held Donaldson to 17/64 (good call by Brown, we seemed to sit back expecting a pass). We completely shut down his backup (5 for 7 yards), which is unusual in comparison, but perhaps Manny wanted to test our LBs early.

The tackles never really got pushed back, but this team really over pursuits. There were two or three runs that WV had where both tackles and the back side linebacker or end over ran the play allowing a cutback lane for good yardage. Safeties up would have helped. Carter did not play well. Missed tackles and over ran the ball more than a couple of times.

 

[lazydave841]

The tackles never really got pushed back, but this team really over pursuits. There were two or three runs that WV had where both tackles and the back side linebacker or end over ran the play allowing a cutback lane for good yardage. Safeties up would have helped. Carter did not play well. Missed tackles and over ran the ball more than a couple of times.

Take WVUs first TD. Ellies runs from his A gap, across the other A gap, past the B gap, and hits somebody (not sure if the RT or TE). The run came in right behind him. It felt like a called play where in film review they are checking who did their job vs who didn't.

Why am I bringing this up?

Michigan. Manny said our guys didn't trust their reads and responsibilities. This felt like practice for that, but I'm just assuming. I watched our CBs and Ss coming up and cutting runs down when they wanted to, but they were held back quite a bit, seemingly on purpose.

 

[tboyer]

-- For Allar and the receivers to play this well right off the bat has a big impact on what PSU will see this fall from opposing defenses. They'll have to play PSU straight up because they see that Allar doesn't get rattled and PSU picks up blitzes well. Bielema at Illinois will still do a lot of single coverage in the secondary and play safeties up to stop the run, but it's much less likely that it will work against PSU because of the balance.

-- I wouldn't make too much of the WVa rushing success. A lot of that was early season jitters and overpursuit by a fast defense. This D might be the fastest I've seen at PSU, but that means these guys can run themselves out of plays really fast. But the good thing about speed is they can recover, so mistakes lead to first downs but not total breakaway runs.

-- At the same time I'm still not convinced PSU has a front seven that can go toe to toe with Michigan, especially with the attrition PSU is seeing at DT. They just creamed this defensive front last year and they might do it again. I know Franklin has to be optimistic, but I'm not buying that PSU couldn't defend Michigan because of missed assignments. They missed assignments because the Michigan OL dominated them.

 

[Marylovesthelions]

Excellent recap Obli. I also was disappointed with the success WVU had running especially in the first half. But considering the fact that WVU’s strength was its OL and the fact that a 240 lb RB was running behind it, the final stats suggest that it wasn’t as bad as it appeared

3 of the OL may end up in the NFL. One will be an early draft pick.

 

[bvillebaron]

-- For Allar and the receivers to play this well right off the bat has a big impact on what PSU will see this fall from opposing defenses. They'll have to play PSU straight up because they see that Allar doesn't get rattled and PSU picks up blitzes well. Bielema at Illinois will still do a lot of single coverage in the secondary and play safeties up to stop the run, but it's much less likely that it will work against PSU because of the balance.

-- I wouldn't make too much of the WVa rushing success. A lot of that was early season jitters and overpursuit by a fast defense. This D might be the fastest I've seen at PSU, but that means these guys can run themselves out of plays really fast. But the good thing about speed is they can recover, so mistakes lead to first downs but not total breakaway runs.

-- At the same time I'm still not convinced PSU has a front seven that can go toe to toe with Michigan, especially with the attrition PSU is seeing at DT. They just creamed this defensive front last year and they might do it again. I know Franklin has to be optimistic, but I'm not buying that PSU couldn't defend Michigan because of missed assignments. They missed assignments because the Michigan OL dominated them.

They missed assignments because Michigan dominated them. Okay whatever.

 

[Obliviax]

I watched the game for a second time, last night. Other observations:

• I've got the hots for the woman ref with the long ponytail. I have never been in to "roll playing" but she brings up interesting options I've never considered before. Illegal motion, offsides, encroachment, unnecessary roughness, targeting, and if you are really kinky, facemask.
• The PSU girls really showed out. White tank tops appear to be all the rage.
• I understand why WVU was miffed at the lack of holding calls on PSU. I saw several that could have been called.
• Allar was even better the second time. We have to remember that he can't even buy vapes at age 19. Singleton is also 19 BTW.
• Allar may throw the ball on the run better than from a clean pocket.
• The WVU center had his way all night no matter if he was blocking a DT or LB. Kid is a beast. It also appears he called a good game as WVU was spot-on in their blocking assignments all night. Unlike on the PSU side of the gall, PSU almost never had a guy unblocked.
• Again, Say-Hey-Dak's kicks were all solid. They just missed.
• Looked like, for the most part, some really good sportspersonship. Lots of kids helping each other up. There was some jostling after the first half and at the end of the game but that quickly dissipated.
• There was a play where a PSU defender was bear hugging a WVU player well out of bounds. I am not sure why no flag was thrown or why the PSU defender did this. It didn't seem to be really rough but was uncalled for. PSU was really good at not launching on the WVU QB when he ran OOB. In years past, we had several of these calls.

 

[Online Persona]

I watched the game for a second time, last night. Other observations:

• I've got the hots for the woman ref with the long ponytail. I have never been in to "roll playing" but she brings up interesting options I've never considered before. Illegal motion, offsides, encroachment, unnecessary roughness, targeting, and if you are really kinky, facemask.
• The PSU girls really showed out. White tank tops appear to be all the rage.
• I understand why WVU was miffed at the lack of holding calls on PSU. I saw several that could have been called.
• Allar was even better the second time. We have to remember that he can't even buy vapes at age 19. Singleton is also 19 BTW.
• Allar may throw the ball on the run better than from a clean pocket.
• The WVU center had his way all night no matter if he was blocking a DT or LB. Kid is a beast. It also appears he called a good game as WVU was spot-on in their blocking assignments all night. Unlike on the PSU side of the gall, PSU almost never had a guy unblocked.
• Again, Say-Hey-Dak's kicks were all solid. They just missed.
• Looked like, for the most part, some really good sportspersonship. Lots of kids helping each other up. There was some jostling after the first half and at the end of the game but that quickly dissipated.
• There was a play where a PSU defender was bear hugging a WVU player well out of bounds. I am not sure why no flag was thrown or why the PSU defender did this. It didn't seem to be really rough but was uncalled for. PSU was really good at not launching on the WVU QB when he ran OOB. In years past, we had several of these calls.

I noticed the PSU defender hanging on as well. It was a DB and on second look, he and the WVU player were mostly just tangled up. The WVU player had both arms and the football down over the back our our players pads and they just looked to me like they couldn't get free until the WVU player pulled both arms back over our DBs head.

 

[Obliviax]

I noticed the PSU defender hanging on as well. It was a DB and on second look, he and the WVU player were mostly just tangled up. The WVU player had both arms and the football down over the back our our players pads and they just looked to me like they couldn't get free until the WVU player pulled both arms back over our DBs head.

Another thing I noticed. What the hell happened to Todd Blackledge when PSU scored on the first drive? Allar hits KLS for a 70 plus yard TD. The play by play announcer (who I liked with his low key calls) made the call and then shut up for about 20 seconds. Nothing from Blackledge. Finally, the play-by-play guy comes back on and adds some color about down, distance, players, and observations. His initial call after the TD was "Welcome to the Drew Allar era!". Blackledge didn't say a word until well after a minute expired and they were into the replay. Did he go to the bathroom? Take a sip of coffee that went down wrong? Distracted?

 

[The Spin Meister]

Another thing I noticed. What the hell happened to Todd Blackledge when PSU scored on the first drive? Allar hits KLS for a 70 plus yard TD. The play by play announcer (who I liked with his low key calls) made the call and then shut up for about 20 seconds. Nothing from Blackledge. Finally, the play-by-play guy comes back on and adds some color about down, distance, players, and observations. His initial call after the TD was "Welcome to the Drew Allar era!". Blackledge didn't say a word until well after a minute expired and they were into the replay. Did he go to the bathroom? Take a sip of coffee that went down wrong? Distracted?

It was the white tube tops…..🤷🏿‍♂️

 

[Online Persona]

Another thing I noticed. What the hell happened to Todd Blackledge when PSU scored on the first drive? Allar hits KLS for a 70 plus yard TD. The play by play announcer (who I liked with his low key calls) made the call and then shut up for about 20 seconds. Nothing from Blackledge. Finally, the play-by-play guy comes back on and adds some color about down, distance, players, and observations. His initial call after the TD was "Welcome to the Drew Allar era!". Blackledge didn't say a word until well after a minute expired and they were into the replay. Did he go to the bathroom? Take a sip of coffee that went down wrong? Distracted?

Todd's great. I don't think he was his best this game. In this case, he may have been off high 5ing people and then came back not wanting to comment because he was afraid of coming off as a homer. If you notice when Herbie calls Ohio St games, he goes silent for long periods after for example, Georgia scores to go ahead late. It's because he's a homer and he really shouldn't be commenting while too emotional. Maybe Todd errored on the other side of the spectrum just like when he got on Allar for the slightly off but catchable throw to KLS in the middle of the field. Just guessing here.

 

[olelion]

Todd's great. I don't think he was his best this game. In this case, he may have been off high 5ing people and then came back not wanting to comment because he was afraid of coming off as a homer. If you notice when Herbie calls Ohio St games, he goes silent for long periods after for example, Georgia scores to go ahead late. It's because he's a homer and he really shouldn't be commenting while too emotional. Maybe Todd errored on the other side of the spectrum just like when he got on Allar for the slightly off but catchable throw to KLS in the middle of the field. Just guessing here.

Or maybe, just maybe e was just letting the viewing audience take in the noise and celebration

 

[Obliviax]

Or maybe, just maybe e was just letting the viewing audience take in the noise and celebration

I don’t think so. Typically the play guy calls the play then shuts up. After some time, the color guy chimes in. I don’t think we heard todd until the PAT

 

[Obliviax]

this is funny. you can clearly see CJF say "This is ****ing embarrassing!" but I can't lip-read the rest.

 

[lazydave841]

They just creamed this defensive front last year and they might do it again. I know Franklin has to be optimistic, but I'm not buying that PSU couldn't defend Michigan because of missed assignments. They missed assignments because the Michigan OL dominated them.

Look at the flip-flop, flip-flop of our series from '16-'19. Home team dominated the visitor in each contest. We both won 2 a piece with '19 being the only close game of the 4.

If our offense scores points, it's going to be a game. If we can jump out early ('17 perfect example), even better. You can't just run 14 plays in 6 minutes game time while they pound the ball for 3-4 a play and chew up 6 minutes per drive in the opening 30.

 

[tboyer]

this is funny. you can clearly see CJF say "This is ****ing embarrassing!" but I can't lip-read the rest.

View embedded media

That is funny.

What was really f-ing embarrassing was the late Paterno era when play-calling responsibilities were shared by like 4 people. Lost timeouts were routine and the offense had to rush their preparation all game because the plays came 5 seconds before the clock expired. We have come a long, long way from those days.

 

[PSUSignore]

That is funny.

What was really f-ing embarrassing was the late Paterno era when play-calling responsibilities were shared by like 4 people. Lost timeouts were routine and the offense had to rush their preparation all game because the plays came 5 seconds before the clock expired. We have come a long, long way from those days.

They needed time to resuscitate Galen Hall between plays.