James Franklin's team begins a difficult three-game closing stretch to the season Saturday against the Wildcats. A win on the road opens up a number of possibilities for PSU. Here's how the Lions can get to 8-2 ...
1. Pounce. Northwestern isn't exactly known as a fast-starting team. The Wildcats have been outscored 42-23 in the first quarter. Will Penn State's offense go after Northwestern in the first 15 minutes?
2. Stuff the run. Temple, Ohio State and Maryland all did damage to the PSU defense on the ground. Northwestern has a mobile QB, too.