Penn State kicked off its season in a somewhat shaky fashion but pulled away late in a quiet and empty Bryce Jordan Center thanks to some smart coaching by interim coach Jim Ferry.
Ferry's moves, which included playing a smaller lineup, paid off as Penn State downed VMI 86-65 to open the season with a commanding win.
VMI capitalized on some early defensive errors and occasional overcommitment from defenders early, jumping out to a 15-11 lead with 12 minutes left in the first half
Penn State suffered from shooting woes early, going 1-for-10 from 3-point range to start the first half and 29% from the field in the first 12 minutes.