Penn State leaves win over Central Michigan with bad taste in its mouth: Instant Analysis
Penn State landed a 33-14 victory against Central Michigan on Saturday that nobody knows quite how to feel about after the game. That’s the major takeaway from head coach James Franklin, players, and Blue White Illustrated’s instant analysis. Subscribe to Blue White Illustrated, so you don’t miss any postgame coverage.
PSU vs. Central Michigan Instant Analysis
Senior Editor Nate Bauer and Blue White Illustrated publisher Sean Fitz discuss Penn State’s victory on the field at Beaver Stadium after the game. According to Fitz, it was a win that will leave a sour taste in the mouths of the Penn State players. He explains why. Next, Bauer gives his thoughts on how Central Michigan forced the issues Saturday by doing some unexpected things and playing unexpectedly.
The duo also discusses the major storylines of the game, including Penn State’s lack of execution and focus during the game offensively, the struggles of the passing game, and Sean Clifford’s accuracy.
But it wasn’t all negative. Next, Fitz and Bauer discuss the game’s standout players, including Kaytron Allen, Kalen King, and Zakee Wheatley, who has forced three turnovers in four games for Penn State.
After a 4-0 September, where is Penn State football, and how far can it go?
Penn State is 4-0. So, we know it is unbeaten. It has survived two true road tests and also has a Big Ten win as it enters full-on conference play at the start of October.
To some, the Lions exceeded expectations during the season’s first month. Others believe head coach James Franklin’s team is exactly where it should be after being favored in each contest to start the year. Then, there is a group that thought the Central Michigan game exposed too many warts to get too excited about a Penn State team that started the year outside of the top 25 but is now inside of the top 15 at the first quarter pole.
There is no wrong segment to be in at this point. All are fair takes. But two of the three will be proven wrong soon. Because, starting with Northwestern, the competition starts to ratchet up a bit. October also includes a likely top-10 showdown at Michigan and home dates with Minnesota for the White Out and also top-five Ohio State. There are two road games in November to navigate, as well. In other words, the tune-up time is over, and there are clear strengths and also apparent areas for growth moving forward.
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