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Scott, Allen figure to play large role in running game

Five things to look for as Penn State closes out the non-conference portion of the schedule against Army on military appreciation day.

No. 1: Protect ball

The Nittany Lions are favored by four touchdowns, and about the only way this game will be close is if they cough up the football in the rainy, slippery conditions.

Penn State already has played a couple of games in the rain, and Christian Hackenberg has had trouble with his accuracy. The coaches took shots downfield in last week’s 37-21 win over San Diego State, but they might keep things closer to the vest in the rain.

Army is going to run the ball all day, and it’s usually a disciplined team that doesn’t have a lot of turnovers. PSU’s young running backs will need to make sure they hold onto the football.

No. 2: Ground control

It would seem impossible for Akeel Lynch (knee) to play today, and Saquon Barkley (ankle) is questionable, as well. The Lions should be able to win this game easily even without Barkley, so they can rest him up for the grind of the Big Ten schedule starting next week.

That puts backup tailbacks Nick Scott and Mark Allen squarely in the spotlight today.

Neither has done much on the ground this season as they’ve combined for only 27 yards on 18 carries. That’s … not good.

At least one of them will have to step up today and take command as a threat. If both can do that, it would work wonders for their confidence going forward since Lynch probably won’t be back any time soon.

Coach James Franklin spoke highly of Scott and Allen this week, and today will be their opportunity to prove worthy of that praise.

No. 3: Stay healthy

Penn State simply cannot afford to have anymore players get hurt. This should be an easy victory, but having so many guys already banged up will take a toll in Big Ten play.

No. 4: Build confidence

Things get a lot tougher after this for the Lions. The team has some clear issues, particularly on offensive, but nothing builds confidence like winning and winning big.

Penn State is much better than Army and needs to go out today and show it. By doing so, the players can have a great week of practice and feel good about themselves heading into what will be a tough game next week against Indiana, and then an enormous challenge in two weeks at Ohio State.

If Army hangs around today the way Buffalo and San Diego State did in recent weeks, it will not be a good sign for the Lions.

No. 5: Players to watch

Penn State: The running back tandem of Scott and Allen will get a chance to strut their stuff. We’ll see if they can.

Army: QB Ahmad Bradshaw is questionable with an injury. He makes the triple option offense go, and if he can’t play, the Black Knights could have a tough time moving the ball.

Prediction: Penn State 35, Army 10

Follow @CoryGiger on Twitter for live updates and analysis during today’s game.

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