LOS ANGELES >> Big Ten champion Penn State will bring one traditional element to Pasadena.
It has a physical runner.
The Nittany Lions’ running back, Saquon Barkley, is listed at 223 pounds and a tough player to bring down to the grass.
“He’s a hard tackle,” USC defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast said. “The first guy very rarely gets him on the ground.”
Trojans coach Clay Helton began this week of bowl practices by noting Barkley was a particular point of emphasis.
In 13 games, Barkley rushed for 1,302 yards and 16 touchdowns and was named the Big Ten’s offensive player of the year.