The No. 12 Michigan Wolverines defeated the Penn State Nittany Lions 28-16 behind a strong defensive performance and an offense that scored a touchdown in each quarter. The Wolverines improved to 9-2, while the Nittany Lions fell to 7-4. Here's what you need to know from Michigan's win.
Notes:
QB Jake Rudock followed up his incredible performance against Indiana last week with another strong effort against a good PSU defense. Rudock completed 25 of 38 passes for 256 yards, 2 TDs and a pick.
Penn State QB Christian Hackenberg had a rough day against the Wolverines. He completed just 13 of 31 passes for 137 yards and a pick. His offensive line didn't bail him out, as Hackenberg took several hits, was harassed all game and even had to leave briefly.
It's a good thing Rudock played well, because the Wolverines had a tough day on the ground. Michigan ran it 30 times, but could only pick up 87 yards. Only one run went longer than eight yards. It was still a better day on the ground than what Penn State had. The Nittany Lions picked up 70 yards on 22 carries, but 56 of those came on one long run.
Penalties were an issue once again for Michigan. They committed 13, which went for 117 yards. Penn State wasn't flagged for many infractions, picking up just 3 for 30 yards. Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh was not happy with several of the calls, berating the officials.
Quotes:
"Every time the momentum was shifting or about to shift, our offense responded with a big drive, touchdown drive." - Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh.
"My heart hurts for these seniors. Last time they'll play in Beaver Stadium and they're leaving not on a positive note." - Penn State head coach James Franklin.
"Everyone on the team would follow him no matter what." - Michigan TE Jake Butt on Harbaugh arguing with officials on behalf of his players.
"He's taken a pounding for the past year and a half. The fact that he hasn't missed a game or really missed a series is impressive. No one really can question his mental or physical toughness, and we have to get our protection and our run game more consistent to help him out." - Franklin on Hackenberg.
Observations:
The Wolverines are still in contention for a Big Ten East title, but they no longer control their own destiny. That's because Ohio State was upset by Michigan State. The Spartans can now capture the East with a win over Penn State next weekend. Michigan can win the East if it beats Ohio State and if MSU losses.
Christian Hackenberg is already the most sacked QB in school history, and he's only a junior. Hackenberg has plenty of talent, but it's tough for talent to shine through a swarm of opposing jerseys. Hackenberg hasn't had much time this season and his numbers have suffered because of it.
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