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Neil Rudel

Stats don’t lie: Lions trampled

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — James Franklin apologized for a tardier-than-usual arrival to the post-game press conference Saturday. He said he first wanted to see the statistics. They were even worse than what he watched unfold as Michigan rushed for 418 yards — the third-highest total ever against a Penn State team — and bludgeoned the Nittany Lions, 41-17, before 110,812 at Michigan Stadium. “I’m not happy with that number,” he said. “At all.” Penn State was manhandled on both sides of the line of scrimmage as unbeaten Michigan (7-0) rolled up 563 total yards, ...

Diaz’s ‘presence’ inspires defense for Penn State

By Neil Rudel nrudel@altoonamirror.com Manny Diaz’s father, Manny Sr., is the former mayor of Miami (2001-09) who remains a statewide leader in Florida politics. Both are used to addressing groups — whether it’s a city or a group of constituents or a football team. “When my ...

Is it more important to defeat Michigan or Ohio State?

A win over Michigan would be the first step By Neil Rudel nrudel@altoonamirror.com Since it’s probably too much to ask to win both this year, I’m going to say Michigan. Ohio State has proven to be a cut above Penn State and, other than Michigan’s victory over the Buckeyes in 2021, the rest of the Big Ten. A split would put the Nittany Lions on track to finish 11-1, which would keep them on the edge of the College Football Playoff, and certainly beating the Buckeyes would move the needle for the selection committee. But that’s even less likely if Penn State loses to ...

Mount Aloysius’ new hall creates ‘wow’ moment

By Neil Rudel nrudel@altoonamirror.com Some of the inductees into the Mount Aloysius Athletic Hall of Fame were doubly surprised to learn of their recognition. For one, they didn’t know the Mount’s new hall existed, let alone that they were selected as inaugural selections. “I ...

Defense saves PSU’s turnover-prone offense

UNIVERSITY PARK — Penn State took a step backward Saturday. The Nittany Lions were inept offensively, turning the ball over five times, but rode their defense to a 17-7 victory over Northwestern before 105,524 on a rainy day at Beaver Stadium. “I understand the challenges the offense can face on a rainy day,” defensive tackle and team leader P.J. Mustipher said. “That’s why we have a defense. We have their backs, and they have ours.” Penn State’s defense allowed just 31 rushing yards and drew seven punts. The Lions opened the game by forcing five straight ...

Fitzgerald deserves patience

By Neil Rudel nrudel@altoonamirror.com Some nitpicking as the Nittany Lions prepare to complete the pre-bye portion of their schedule: Northwestern has proven over its history to be among the tougher jobs in the Big Ten. With its rigid academic standards, lack of tradition and top-notch facilities — though that’s going to change — Northwestern has struggled to consistently beat the upper level of the Big Ten. In that regard, what Pat Fitzgerald has accomplished has been remarkable. Now in his 17th season, Fitzgerald is 110-93, including a pair of Big Ten West ...