1) Bad weather? No problem
Below-freezing temperatures, swirling winds, and flurries of precipitation certainly worked in Penn State’s favor. Both teams struggled with the cold football, but the Nittany Lions proved to be the grittier team in the end. Ryan Barker, who was the clear MVP of the first half, stepped up when his team needed him, and Ethan Grunkemeyer delivered an inspiring second-half performance despite dropped passes and formidable wind. Maybe he’s the quarterback of the future?
2) Quinton Martin Jr. needs to stick around
While Penn State leaned on Corey Smith toward the beginning of the game, it quickly became clear that Quinton Martin Jr. was the best running back in Yankee Stadium. He finished with 101 yards and 20 carries, and although he didn’t score, Martin came up big in a few crucial moments. Matt Campbell should do what he can to keep Martin (and Tikey Hayes, too, who had an impressive debut) on the roster moving forward.
Should be the next defensive coordinator at Penn State? Boy, did he have a wounded defense ready to play today. Young guys like Daryus Dixson, Vaboue Toure, and Jaylen Harvey put on beautiful performances in sub-optimal conditions and circumstances. Clemson’s offense did not look great, but the Nittany Lions’ defensive unit played inspired and hungry.