The Penn State Football Show

Minnesota has had their ups and downs over the last decade boasting one of the best running back duos in 2004 with Laurence Maroney and Marion Barber III, but also slumping to a 1-11 record in 2007. Last year under Tim Brewster they righted the ship and returned to postseason play, and they will most likely return to a bowl this year. They have a stud receiver that Pete mentioned, and Adam Weber, although not great, has a big arm and can make plays...particularly the long heave to Decker. Everyone in Minnesota thinks they have the best linebackers in the Big Ten, unfortunately they're dead wrong. This game will be a test for Penn State, but obviously one they should pass, and a statement could be made with an impressive victory.

Minnesota has played fairly well this season with their only losses coming against Wisconsin and then #8 California (now unranked after getting slapped around like a puck by USC and Oregon), and both games were pretty close. At times their defense has given up big yardage on the ground and other times through the air. Wisconsin ran all over them, Northwestern tossed it around, and overall they're giving up over 380 yards a game while only picking up just under 320. Last week's performance vs. Purdue showed an opportunistic team that struggled moving the ball but still found a way to win. Decker is a great receiver, but like Pete said, one receiver doesn't beat you. Other than that, there is really nothing spectacular about the Golden Gophers.

Penn State should be able to control the game and get some pressure on Weber who has been sacked 15 times this season. Reportedly they've got a bohemoth at right tackle weighing in at 360, but from what I've read he's not very good. It also appears that Sean Lee will get some action though how much is still up in the air. This is a huge boost for the team not only in terms of talent and leadership, but I think just having him out there will have a soothing effect on the defense. In terms of covering Decker, I would just deal with him like any other wideout. You get into trouble when you give someone too much attention, and Weber still needs to make the throws. With some good pressure I think Decker will be held in check although I expect at least one big play out of him. He is exceptional in jump ball situations and even when he is blanketed, Weber won't hesitate to see if he can make a play. Good coverage is the first step, but breaking up passes will be vital. I feel like AJ Wallace is going to have another pick and a big day. I've been pleased with what he's done recently. If Morris comes into the game, I doubt he will be on the same side of the field as Decker, but we will keep saying it...this kid is a player. Bowman also says he finally feels 100% so get excited.

On offense for Penn State they will have third string right tackle Ako Poti starting in place of Nerraw McCormack and DeOn'tae Pannell who both have ankle injuries. He did fine last week against Podunk University. Look for most of the runs to go left, and I have been pleased at times with Green and Royster recently, particularly in the Illinois game where Green played the best game of his career. I think PSU should be able to rack up 200 yards both on the ground and through the air. Clark will have a few QB draws early in the game to keep the Gophers off balance and open up the passing game. Chaz is getting more and more involved in the offense, and he's a reliable guy who is easy to get the ball to. He's good in open space and I expect big things from him. The only question mark for the game is this weather and special teams. Last week I paid close attention to Jeremy Boone's punts and I forget who mentioned it, but he most certainly does take an extra step into his punts. He needs to speed that up. I'd also like to see Breen on kickoffs despite Joe saying that he isn't accurate enough...I mean give me a break, this isn't one of those rigged carnival games...it's a kickoff, he's got 53.33 yards to work with. Minnesota also has the conference's best returner, so coverage MUST improve. This is not a dangerous team on paper, but they take advantage of the little things like special teams and turnovers. Taking care of those things will win the game for Penn State.

Pete it's nice to see you have VT losing to GT, but as much as I'd like to see that happen, I just don't believe it. VT is a sound defense that won't give up the big pass and should minimize damage in the run game. GT's defense has also been about as effective the cup holders in my car. And yes, I spilled a 40 ounce Coke all over the back seat. Smells great. Anyway, I wish I was up in State College this weekend to see some SNOW! I'm hoping to make it out to Minnesota next year for a trip to see their new stadium and to finally cross the Mississippi river. Prediction: Jared Odrick eats someone in the second quarter