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As Nits regroup, team leadership magnified

Some nitpicking as the Nittany Lions attempt to regroup from their whooping at Michigan: n Tonight is a referendum on the team’s leadership — James Franklin’s ability to regroup the troops emotionally and especially on the defensive side of the ball. Minnesota is a run-first team, featuring Mo Ibrahim, and even more so with starting quarterback Tanner Morgan (concussion) questionable. N Most figured defensive coordinator Manny Diaz would only be at Penn State for one season and then move on to another head-coaching job. But if the Lions don’t shore up their run defense tonight ...

PSU point-counterpoint: Who should start at quarterback this weekend?

At least vs. Minnesota, here’s a vote for Allar By Neil Rudel nrudel@altoonamirror.com I say Drew Allar. Sean Clifford was injured enough at Michigan last week that he didn’t finish the game — a 41-17 rout. Many have clamored for Allar to replace Clifford, who has not played well in three straight games and endured difficult stretches in others (Purdue, Ohio U). Clifford hasn’t played poorly; he just hasn’t played all that well — which exemplifies his body of work over his long career. Since leading PSU to an 8-0 start way back in 2019, ...

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 ...

Grouse hunting for experts

Grouse hunters — who hope for good weather for the opener of the season this Saturday — have forever been looked upon as the elite among small game hunters. And why not? Most consider grouse as the king of game birds. The flavor of grouse is exquisite, as is the sight of those purists who hunt grouse exclusively. I know a few of this type and they belong with the fly-fishing purists. The finest shotguns grace their cabinets and their pressed canvas trousers, vests and other regalia signify that they haunt briars and thickets in search of Pennsylvania’s state bird. Like ...

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 ...