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Another week of Penn State searching for its first Big Ten victory of the season begins today.
Here are five keys to a win in Ann Arbor later today.
1. More from the passing game: Let's not get into the run game. That is what it is at this point, although it will be interesting to see if any new starters on the offensive line will get in the game, and how much of a difference that would make.
Quarterback Rocco Becht was particularly hard on himself despite having 289 yards last week vs. USC. He certainly wasn't the reason the Lions lost, but there were still throws that he would like to have back. But you can't put too much blame on yourself after nearly 300 yards and no turnovers.
2. Get Brahmer the ball: Offensive coordinator Taylor Mouser said it was unacceptable that Brahmer had just one reception against the Trojans last week.
Maybe one of the throws Becht would like to have back is missing Brahmer, who is 6-foot-7, high last week in the back of the end zone. There have been many reasonable questions about how defense translates from the Big 12 to the Big Ten. It hasn't been as much of a problem on the offensive end. Brahmer was an All-Big 12 selection as a tight end last year, but he hasn't come close to that form in the Big Ten.
3. Rush more than three: While the reasoning of prioritizing dropping more players into coverage was understandable against USC QB Jayden Maiava, it backfired on the Lions. Maiava torched PSU's secondary for 301 yards, and the defense never made any adjustments.
That should not be the case against the Wolverines, who have a struggling quarterback in Bryce Underwood. It would be wise to bring more pressure on him, drawing up blitz packages and having the defensive line utilize more stunts and twists.
4. Strike early and often: It might not be a crowd quite like the White Out, especially with Michigan not as talented as usual. However, it is still usually a hostile crowd in the Big House.
The best way to take the crowd out of a game is to get on the board early, and don't let off the gas. Sounds like a good time for a Becht long ball to Chase Sowell.
5. A linebacker steps up: Penn State still has one of the best linebackers in the country in Tony Rojas, who has half of the team's eight sacks on the season. The problem is other than Rojas, there hasn't been anyone else who has provided a lot of positives.
The depth has now become more of an issue with Alex Tatsch out for the rest of the season with an injury. The lack of healthy players has become more than a concern for the Lions but a downright problem. The Lions need someone to help Rojas.