Penn State clawed back from a 21-point deficit and prevented the Buckeyes from turning the game into a blowout. Due to the close nature of the game, only six freshmen were able to contribute in the 28-17 victory. It was the lowest total of the season since when five freshmen played against Wisconsin.
Zach Harrison entered the game for the first time during Penn State's second offensive drive. The Nittany Lions were facing a third down and Harrison was used in a 4-2-5 defensive scheme. He did not line up at his usual defensive end position.