This is the third installment of the four part series on the College Football Playoff, and the National Championship. This week, we focus on my FAVORITE TEAM, the Penn State Nittany Lions.
Last season, Penn State had a rocky start losing to Pitt and getting absolutely demolished by Michigan. But the season found a turning point after the upset of Ohio State in Happy Valley. Penn State wouldn't lose again until the Rose Bowl against USC. This was in large part due to the confidence that one major win gave, but it was more than just that.
Penn State really hit a stride after that Ohio State game, winning most games in convincing fashion. Saquon Barkley looked like a man among children, even when playing through soreness and injury. Chris Godwin was almost sure to catch anything that was thrown his way, and was highly intelligent. Couple this with an explosive talent like Trace McSorely at Quarterback, and you have a recipe for success. Unfortunately, Chris Godwin is no longer a Nittany Lion. This is where Penn State will have to work the most. Saeed Blacknall has shown that in big games, he can come up big. This was evident in the Big Ten Championship game, where he recorded 2 touchdowns on 6 catches, totaling 155 yards. He has the potential to be McSorely's top guy, and possibly even a First Team All-Big Ten receiver. That is if he can stay on the field. Blacknall was suspended for the Rose Bowl for "violating team rules". Should this not happen again, look out for him.
McSorely also has some help on the defense. Penn State is returning two absolute studs from last season's team in Cabinda and Allen. Losing Garrett Sickles to the NFL Draft (though he didn't get drafted) is tough for Penn State. However, it's not something they can overcome. In fact, experience is one of their strong suits. Unlike Michigan who has lost 17 starters, and Ohio State who said goodbye to 75% of their starting secondary, and lost an absolute weapon out of the backfield, Penn State is returning almost everybody.
This season will be Penn State's chance with Michigan, Ohio State, and Wisconsin all losing key pieces of their team, to really step in and prove that they not only belong in the CFP debate, but that they are a legitimate threat to Alabama, or whoever else they may see in the CFP.
Penn State will be a fun team to watch this season. Look for Saquon Barkley to put up Heisman-like numbers this season. If Penn State can get by Ohio State, they should finish the season 12-0 heading into the College Football Playoff.
Next week, we will discuss the fourth and final team in the series, the Oklahoma State Cowboys!
Thank you for reading,
Dan Snyder
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