Big 10 . . . game # 2

This year?s PSU football team is a pleasant surprise! The only hope I had for this team going into the 2005-06 campaign was the knowledge that the defense, especially scoring defense, might provide the Lions with some semblance of respectability. Loyal fans, already too familiar with PSU?s less than stellar performances over the previous five years, have been waiting for this team to return to a playing level that would take make them bowl eligible. Post-season bowl appearances used to be almost virtually guaranteed and we?ve lived through quite a drought. There?s a legitimate opportunity for things to turn about this season!

Southern Florida, our first opponent of the year, upset 9th ranked Louisville last weekend. I think our early non-conference victory against Southern Florida is a positive indicator for the Lions. The come from behind victory in the Big 10 opener against Northwestern, overcoming 7 turnovers, gave the Lions confidence and ?heart?. I still think Morelli should be the QB and at some point this season I look for him to get the nod. There?s no denying that Penn State?s squad would be lack luster this year if it weren?t for the contributions of the amazing Freshman talent JoePa has decided to utilize. Take away the speed and big plays the Frosh bring to the table and the dynamics of the team go South quickly. I think we have to be concerned about the lack of experience of these Freshman and can only hope that their conditioning will keep them healthy for the entire campaign.

We have some tough games ahead on the schedule. There?s just enough talent on this year?s squad to give PSU fanatics like me lots of hope that we can win more Big 10 games than not. I think the team may surprise a few Big 10 teams this year . . . but unfortunately this year will no doubt have a few heartbreakers too. I?d love to her what Beano Cooke?s take is on this year?s PSU squad. If the scoring defense can keep the games close going into the final quarter, we finally have the quick scoring talent to make it a game!

After the Lions face the Gophers this Saturday, we'll know alot more about how the team is likely to perform this year in Big 10 competition. The Gophers are favored by 2 points.