This week the Penn State Nittany Lions will face the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. Both teams are coming off of a loss. Following the game against Michigan, Penn State, and their offensive coordinator, Mike Yurcich have parted ways. It is too late for the Nittany Lions to do anything this season, but this is their chance to show that they can still be a dominant team. Here is what to watch for this weekend for the Penn State Nittany Lions.
What to Watch for
There is no doubt that Penn State is going to continue to try to win. But with the firing of Yurcich, is it possible that we will see something new from the Nittany Lions? Last weekend the offense did not do anything big. They looked completely lost out there. There were plays where they had to take a time out because they did not know where to stand. It is time to see how the offense changes this weekend against Rutgers. The Scarlet Knights do have a good defense, but the injuries on the team may be catching up to them.
Penn State QB Drew Allar (15) – Barry Reeger/AP Photo
Everyone is discussing quarterback Drew Allar as it is his first year starting, but the run game could also be more effective. Kaytron Allen has been doing well in this offense, even having a big run against Michigan last weekend. While Rutgers’ defense cannot be counted out, once they get tired, the Nittany Lions may be able to take advantage. This could be the game in which Penn State’s offense finally gets multiple explosive plays by running the ball.
There are clear accuracy issues in the Rutgers passing game. Quarterback Gavin Wimsatt is a threat running the ball but has thrown numerous interceptions this season. Penn State has the chance to win the turnover battle this weekend. That is not to say that the Scarlet Knights only throw interceptions, but that the defense can make big stops this week.
Penn State Players to Watch
Kaytron Allen
Running back Kaytron Allen had a slower start to the season, not getting as many carries as Nicholas Singleton, but he has been having some really good runs lately. If Penn State controls the time of possession, there is a high chance Allen will have a big game. This season Allen has rushed the ball 131 times for 645 yards and four touchdowns, according to Sports Reference. He also has had ten receptions for 58 yards. He will be a crucial player to watch this weekend.
Penn State RB Kaytron Allen (13) – Gregory Fisher/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Abdul Carter
Putting pressure on the Rutgers quarterback will be key to success, and linebacker, Abdul Carter will do just that. He has not had as many tackles for loss this season compared to last year, but when he’s in coverage, that gives room for the linemen to make their move on Wimsatt. This season, Carter has had 37 combined tackles, 19 solo, and three tackles for loss, according to Sports Reference. He also has had two sacks, one interception, and one forced fumble. Carter has been a playmaker this season and will be this weekend.
Kalen King
As the season comes to a close, some players will be looking to increase their draft stock. Cornerback Kalen King will be able to use the next two games, and the bowl game assuming he plays, to do this. This is also assuming he declares for the 2024 NFL Draft. This season, King has had 27 total tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and two passes defended, according to Sports Reference. He still has not had an interception, but there is still time Watch for him to try to have a big game this weekend.
Penn State CB Kalen King (4) – Dan Rainville/USA TODAY Network
Game Predictions
It can be expected for this game to go one way, especially being at Happy Valley. The game prediction for this weekend’s matchup is that the Penn State Nittany Lions will defeat the Rutgers Scarlet Knights with a final score of 32-10. It is going to start fairly close, but Penn State may run away with it.
