October 2011 Archives

Story by Tony Mancuso and Kelsey Detweiler

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - The defending national champion Nittany Lion wrestling team officially opened the 2011-'12 campaign with media day at Rec Hall on Monday afternoon.

More than 30 members of the local media gathered for head coach Cael Sanderson's first press conference of the season and media availability for the wrestlers on the squad.  Take a look through some of the noteworthy items from media day for the defending national champs.

The Leader of the Pack
Penn State head coach Cael Sanderson said that his team's Big Ten Championship and NCAA title last year is still something to be honored, but he is looking forward to the entertainment that his squad will be providing this season. Sanderson has been doing a bit of wrestling of his own in the offseason, but he assured that his focus from this point is on his student-athletes and his top-ranked program.

"We're excited about what these guys were able to do last year and last year's in the books as something we can always be proud of," said Sanderson. "I'm just really focused here on getting our team ready to go and you know at the same time I'm preparing to compete just kind of like I always do."

Veterans Expected to Take the Lead
With a roster featuring 10 fresh faces, Sanderson reiterated the importance of developing leadership and keeping the intensity high throughout the first weeks of the season. The head coach noted that while his highly ranked recruits seem confident and ready to learn, he is counting on All-Americans David Taylor, Ed Ruth, Frank Molinaro and Quentin Wright and returning NCAA qualifier Cameron Wade to lead the team this year.

Getting to Know the New Guys
Among the handful of new athletes added to the Penn State roster are freshmen Nico Megaludis and Morgan McIntosh. Both of these wrestlers were among the country's top five recruits heading into the 2011-'12 season, and Sanderson said that the duo is adjusting very well to the collegiate wrestling stage.

"They're both looking really great actually," said Sanderson. "They're very talented kids with a tough mentality and believe in themselves, which is rare this early in their career, but I have a lot of confidence in both of those guys."

All-Americans Working Even Harder
After providing what was truly a team effort to take home last year's national title, Sanderson said that his wrestlers who made the biggest impact last season are at it again. After an almost perfect season at 38-1, sophomore David Taylor has been moved up to the 165 spot in the Nittany Lion roster and Sanderson said that Taylor has made the adjustment smoothly. Sanderson also spoke highly of three-time All American and national runner-up Frank Molinaro, who is one of just two seniors on the squad this year.

"Both guys are wrestling exceptionally well right now," said Sanderson. "And, if you can imagine, they have actually improved since last year and that kind of forces everybody else into whatever weight classes are left there."

The Alton Brothers
After an impressive debut season at 141, Sanderson announced that Andrew Alton will be a red-shirt wrestler for the 2011-'12 schedule. Sanderson said that it would be more of a hassle for Andrew to cut a significant amount of weight to get back down to 141 than it would be for him to wait it out and compete as the tough wrestler that he is at 149 when Molinaro has graduated. Sanderson also said that Andrew's brother, Dylan Alton, will fill the spot at 157 this year as he has been looking sharp and has been very competitive against the competition he has faced in practice so far.


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UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Take a look through some of the significant numbers following Saturday's 10-7 victory at Illinois.

4: The Nittany Lions forced a season-high four turnovers against Illinois (two interceptions and two fumbles).  Penn State forced 17 turnovers all of last season.  The Lions have forced 22 this season.

6: Penn State has won six games by 10 points or fewer in 2011.  The last time the Nittany Lions won that many games decided by 10 points or fewer was in 1985 (seven games by seven points or less).

7: Penn State held Illinois to seven points on Saturday, marking the sixth time in 2011 that the Lions have limited their opponent to 10 points or less.

10: Devon Still posted a career high in tackles (10) and matched career high in tackles for loss (3.5).  His previous career-best in tackles was seven against Alabama earlier this year and against Florida in last year's Outback Bowl.  Still now has 15.5 tackles for loss on the year.  Fellow defensive tackle Jordan Hill also made a career-high 10 tackles.

19: On the heels of a career night at Northwestern, linebacker Gerald Hodges turned in another dominant performance on defense.  Hodges made 19 tackles, forced a fumble and tallied a sack in the victory.

137: Silas Redd rushed for 137 yards on a career-high 30 carries against Illinois.  Redd has now rushed for more than 100 yards in five straight games.  Curtis Enis (1997) was the last Lion to post five-straight 100-yard games.  Enis tallied 100 yards in eight straight games in 1997.

409: Legendary head coach Joe Paterno earned his 409th career victory on Saturday, passing Eddie Robinson for the most victories in Division I history.

1,006: Silas Redd has now rushed for 1,006 yards in 2011.  He became the 12th different play to top 1,000 yards in a single season.  Additionally, Penn State has produced a 1,000-yard rusher in seven straight seasons.

Monday Notebook:

Redd Among Big Ten Elite

Sophomore running back Silas Redd added to his string of superb performances in conference play with another strong outing on Saturday.  Through five weeks, the Connecticut native leads the Big Ten (in conference games) with 703 rushing yards.  Redd also ranks No. 16 in the nation with 111.78 rushing yards per game.

Lions Ranked No. 16 in BCS

The Nittany Lions moved up to No. 16 in the BCS this week.  With a BCS average of .4022, Penn State trails No. 15 Michigan by five-hundredths of a point.  The Nittany Lions are ranked 16th in the Harris and USA Today polls.  Penn State is ranked 16th in the Computer Rankings.  The BCS formula includes an average of six computer rankings.  Of the five teams ranked from the Big Ten, Penn State has the second highest computer average behind Nebraska (12th).

Weekly Defense Ranking Update

Penn State's defense is among the nation's elite in several statistical categories.  The Lions are ranked 10th or higher in four major NCAA statistical categories this week.  The Nittany Lions are ranked 10th in total defense (282.33 ypg), fourth in scoring defense (12.44 ppg), fourth in pass efficiency defense (96.34), eighth in pass defense (170.44 ypg) and 24th in rushing defense (111.89 ypg).

Nebraska Kickoff Time

The Big Ten has opted to make the television plans for the Nov. 12 contests a six-day decision.  Therefore, the kickoff time for the Nebraska game will not be decided until Saturday night, at the earliest.  The game will kickoff at either Noon or 3:30 p.m.  One of the following games will be the 3:30 p.m. kickoff on ABC:

Michigan State at Iowa

Michigan at Illinois

Wisconsin at Minnesota

Ohio State at Purdue

Nebraska at Penn State


Follow GoPSUsports.com Media Specialist Tony Mancuso on Twitter @GoPSUTony

By Kelsey Detweiler, GoPSUsports.com Student Staff Writer
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - The warm-up soundtrack played, the line-ups were read and the seats of Rec Hall were filled with more than 4,400 rally-towel waving fans. Happy Valley was getting ready for a night of Big Ten volleyball.

Crowds of chilly Nittany Lion fans filtered into Rec Hall on Saturday night after an exciting day at Beaver Stadium, ready to thaw off and watch two of the top ten women's volleyball teams in the nation duke it out.

No. 8 Penn State took down the Hawkeyes, 3-1, on Friday night, and continued to defend its home court on the following evening with a resounding win of the same score over the top-ranked Huskers.

Lions head coach Russ Rose again showcased multiple groups of talent on the court throughout the match, which he said ultimately helped his team work together to upset their Big Ten opponent.

"You're not going to beat a great team with one player having big numbers," said Rose. "So for us it was a collective effort and they needed to make a statement victory at some point in time so that's a nice one for them to get under their belt."

The Penn State offense hit .194 against the Huskers' .116 percentage and was led by sophomore outside hitter Deja McClendon, who said that the conference win was one that was not only satisfying but also much needed.

"We needed it, we really did," said McClendon. "We needed a time to play as a team and to get a great win like this it just restored our hope."

McClendon was solid all-around and a spitfire on the court, tallying a match-high 18 kills and notching seven digs. The sophomore's kills were more than just points. Each booming swing that she delivered had the crowd on its feet and ready for more.

"I needed to do something," said McClendon. "I haven't really been doing my job as much as I should be so finally showing up, that's good. That's what I'm here for."

Similarly, setter Micha Hancock put on quite the show against the Huskers as she delivered four consecutive service aces in the opening set, and added two more to the count before the match was over. Her final ace of the night was also the final point of set four, to end the match and take home the win.

"It was nice," said Hancock. "Honestly an ace is just a point and when we need a run that's what I want to do. I want to get a cushion for our team."

The freshman setter has been featured in all 22 Penn State matches so far this season, and she said that the win over Nebraska is one that she is especially proud of considering the youth of her team.

"I think it helps with our confidence because we're a young team like we've said before and we know we can do it now," said Hancock. "It's just going in and staying focused and playing our game."

The win over the Huskers puts Penn State at 10-2 in conference play and gives the squad a record of 17-5 overall this season.

The Nittany Lions made the match exciting.

Focusing week in and week out on communication, passing and limiting errors in particular has paid off for the Penn State squad just over half way through the 2011-'12 season.

With many years of experience in the world of collegiate volleyball, Rose said that he is not surprised that Big Ten competition has been especially tough, but he is happy to have a well-rounded team of talent.

"If you're not ready to play you're going to lose," said Rose. "We have to depend on everybody who is in there."

By Scott Traweek, GoPSUsports.com Student Staff Writer
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - The Penn State women's soccer team capped off its regular season schedule with a sure-handed 2-0 victory against the Purdue Boilermakers (7-11-2, 4-6-1 Big Ten) at home on Senior Night.  The win marked the first time the seniors have gone undefeated on Jeffrey Field in their collegiate careers and allowed the Nittany Lions to clench the No. 1 seed in the upcoming Big Ten Tournament.

Before the game, the players described their traditional bus ride over to the stadium as an exciting, yet emotional time for everyone.  They were amped and ready to play a home game on Friday night in front of their families and friends, but they were also sad to see the seniors play their last regular season home game.

"We were all cheering louder than ever," said freshman defender Jackie Molinda.  "And just with our seniors, we love them, they're such a great group, so it was an emotional ride."

Penn State (17-3-0, 10-1-0 Big Ten) had a hard time getting the offense going in the first half.  A cold, wet field accompanied by a stingy Purdue defense, made it difficult for the Nittany Lions to find a rhythm early.  It was an emotional game and the players found themselves caught up in the atmosphere on Jeffrey Field and the concept of losing their seniors next season.

"I think it's an emotional night for the seniors and for everybody involved," said senior defender and team captain Emma Thomson.  "I think at times it probably got the better of us, but once we settled down we started to connect our passes and we started to play the game we're known to play."

With the score knotted at zero going into halftime, the players rallied around their coaches who challenged them to show that they are one of the top teams in the country.

"It was just about that it's bigger than the Big Ten now," said sophomore forward Taylor Schram of the speech at halftime.  "We want to set a standard to everybody in the nation that we're for real this year, that we weren't playing like it tonight, and that we needed to pick it up.  I think they [the coaches] really did a good job of getting us fired up."

Penn State came out of the locker room energized and focused on their present goal.  The result showed immediately as three minutes into the half, freshman midfielder Emily Hurd took a ball from Schram and launched it just under the cross bar for the first goal of the game.  The score was just what the Nittany Lions needed to ignite the offense, an attack that has outscored opponents 34-2 in the second half over the last 19 games.  From there the Purdue defense crumbled as Penn State poured on shot after shot until in the 64^th minute, Schram put the game out of reach with her 12^th goal of the season off of a give and go from her fellow forward Maya Hayes.  Head coach Erica Walsh described Schram's play as "game-changing."

"When she moved into that attacking mid role I thought that things really started to turn for us," said coach Walsh.

The Nittany Lions dominated the second half; out-shooting Purdue 15-2 and rarely letting the ball leave the Boilermaker side of the field.  To win on Senior Night and to go undefeated at home was the perfect way for the players to reward their fellow seniors for all the hard work they put in and all that they've accomplished at Penn State.

"Our seniors are like the core and heart of our team and to win for them on seniors night and go undefeated on Jeffrey is just everything that we could have wanted for this season," said Schram.

"These guys are right now defining their legacy and I think for the most part every game this season they've made it very clear that they want to accomplish something big this year," said coach Walsh.

Penn State plays Northwestern in the first round of the Big Ten Tournament on Wednesday.  As key starters like Maddy Evans and Bri Hovington return from injury, the players are more confident than ever.  They crave more than a Big Ten title and they are ready to fight on the national stage for a championship trophy.

Ahh Chicago, the windy city. That name didn't exactly apply during the absolutely beautiful weekend we were there, but Chicago certainly "swept me off my feet".

The PSU Sonic Road Warriors took Chicago by storm last weekend during our cross-country road trip to see the Penn State Northwestern football game in our super awesome Penn-Stated out Chevy Sonic. Chevrolet's brand new model, the Sonic, proved to be very accommodating to us during our long drive and we shared enough laughs in it to make our lungs hurt. Our trip began at four o'clock in State College and started off as a very exciting one. We met former mayor of Toledo, Carty Finkbeiner, at one of our rest stops and he showed us his phone book which consisted of Ed Rendell, Bill Clinton, and the White House's phone numbers.  20 questions, the "movie" game, home-made trivia, and über competitive games of Catch Phrase entertained us throughout the 10 hour trip. We arrived at our hotel at around two in the morning, but that didn't stop us from getting an early start the next day. Our first stop was for breakfast in downtown Chicago at Clarke's diner. Best orange juice I've ever had was that morning at Clarke's (I highly recommend getting some if you're ever at this diner).

The first attraction we saw in Chicago is one of the most iconic ballparks in all of America, Wrigley Field. Being a huge baseball fan, this was one of my favorite parts of the trip. It was here that we put all of our creativity together to reenact the infamous game 6 of the 2003 NLCS with Steve Bartman robbing an out from Cubs leftfielder Moises Alou. Next, and this was definitely the coolest part of the trip, we got a grand tour of the Big Ten Network studios! We met the anchors, saw the production room, and even got to sit in the anchors seats. This was an incredible experience. Afterwards everyone was ready for a little afternoon snack so we drove over to a cupcake shop called Sprinkles, which just happens to be Oprah's favorite dessert shop in all of Chicago. After trying one of their cupcakes I could certainly understand why. We got a quick glimpse of Soldier field where the Chicago Bears play and then it was off to Northwestern. Northwestern has an absolutely beautiful campus. Each building is very different from the res and they're all ivy covered. It reminded me of a college campus you'd likely see in a movie.

I had a ton of fun here interacting with fans, giving away Road Warriors gear, and getting pumped for the game. The game was electrifying. It was a back-and-forth kind of game, but Penn State's offense finally came to play and sealed Joe Paterno's 408^th win, tying him with Eddie Robinson for the most Division I football wins. After the game we were too exhausted to tour any more of the city or Northwestern so we just settled on having a nice sit-down dinner at Giordano's where we could relax, reflect on our incredible day and eat some real Chicago deep-dish pizza. After eating that I don't think east coast pizza will ever be satisfying for me. The next morning we went back to Chicago to do a little shopping and more sight-seeing. We went back to Sprinkles for more cupcakes (yes they are that good), and I got to go into heaven on earth, a four-story Burton snowboarding store (there's only four in the U.S.)! After this we got back in the coolest car ever and began our long drive to State College. In all it was one of the most fun, jam-packed weekend I've ever been a part of, and all I can say now is please vote for the ROARiors!!

Hey Penn Staters!

If you haven't already heard about the weekend that the PSU Road Warriors spent in Chicago and Evanston for the Northwestern game, you're in for a treat.

Andrew and Kelsey of the ROARiors here! We hit the road for Illinois on Friday afternoon that weekend and spent plenty of quality time in the Chevy Sonic, arriving in Northbrook, Illinois a bit more than ten and a half hours later. It was a long trip after a long week of classes and exams, but we were able to power through with the help of a few clutch car-ride games and timely naps. Have you ever played the Alphabet Movie game in the car? It's fantastic - you should all try it on your next road trip.

We checked into our hotel in Northbrook around 2:30 a.m. Saturday morning and hit the beds as soon as we stepped into our rooms. It was a good thing we got to sleep as soon as we could, because the next day had a lot in store for us.

With the Penn State vs. Northwestern game set to kickoff at 6 p.m. CT, the ROARiors and the Chevy Sonic were ready for a full day of exploring in downtown Chicago and the city of Evanston.

The Road Warrior Sonic started at Clarke's Diner in the heart of Chicago, and then headed to the one, the only, Wrigley Field. If you asked us, the stop at Wrigley was one of the most fun activities that we had all weekend. In fact, we were so excited to be visiting the Chicago Cubs' home field that we wanted to pay tribute to one of the most memorable moments in left field at Wrigley.

If you follow the Cubs or know some of the historic moments that have happened at Wrigley Field, you most likely know the name Steve Bartman. The ROARiors and the rest of the PSU Road Warrior team wanted to highlight the major league memory, so we reenacted the situation right outside of the stadium.

Check out our video, complete with one of the best Harry Caray impersonations you may hear in this decade. Click here for the video!

The ROARiors and the Chevy Sonic made a lot of stops throughout the downtown Chicago area en route to Northwestern, but the trip to Wrigley Field was one of the most exciting of the weekend.

Thanks for following us on our trip to Evanston - we hope you all enjoyed the ROARiors coverage of the weekend as much as we did. I

If you really liked what you saw, make sure you head over to the Chevy Sonic Road Warriors Facebook page and like The ROARiors. You can follow this link directly to do so. 

We are Andrew and Kelsey, and We Are the ROARiors!

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Special seasons in college football are often defined by a signature play, a drive or a victory.

By no means was Saturday's 10-7 victory over Illinois a statistical highlight reel, but Penn State again rose to the occasion when the game was on the line.

A hungry Nittany Lion defensive unit contributed several huge plays, including a season-high four turnovers.  The offense had its hands full with a talented Illinois defense, but it manufactured an 80-yard touchdown drive with the game on the line.

And Illinois kicker Derek Dimke, who was 7-for-7 kicking field goals coming into the game, knocked a game-tying 42-yard kick off the right upright as time expired.

Simply put, Penn State collectively battled through adversity, and the Nittany Lions are now 8-1 overall and 5-0 in the Big Ten heading into the bye week.

The Faces of the Game feature usually highlights a pair of players for their efforts on Saturday, but the win over Illinois was a team victory.

"Since I have been here, we have had to face adversity," senior defensive tackle Devon Still said.  "Tonight, we had to face adversity and we kept pushing and pushing.  We fought through adversity as a team."

Sophomore tailback Silas Redd tallied 137 yards on 30 carries, marking his fifth straight game over the century mark.  None of the 137 yards were bigger than the three that resulted in a touchdown with 1:08 to play.  Additionally, the talented back topped 1,000 yards for the season, marking the seventh straight year a Penn State player has done so.  Redd is the 12th different player in program history to reach 1,000 yards in a season.

"We showed a lot of resilience, and we just pushed, pushed and pushed until we got into the end zone," said Redd.  "It feels really good (to reach 1,000 yards).  All my thanks goes to the offensive line and the coaches believing in me to carry the ball."

Redd scored the game-winning touchdown after a superb 80-yard drive orchestrated by junior quarterback Matt McGloin.  Like the theme of the game, the drive featured big plays from a variety of players.  Senior wide out Derek Moye, who had not practiced all week, made two receptions for 29 yards on the drive.  Justin Brown hauled in a pair of key receptions and Redd finished things off with a hard run into the north end zone.

"That was the biggest drive of the game," senior offensive tackle Chima Okoli said.  "I still can't believe that just happened.  The defense played lights out for four quarters...My teammates played really well today."

Penn State's defense was tremendous on a snowy afternoon in Beaver Stadium.  The Lions held the Illini to 286 total yards.  Junior linebacker Gerald Hodges followed up a career night at Northwestern with another career-high 19 tackles.  The defensive tackle tandem of Still and Jordan Hill each registered a career-high 10 stops.  As a unit, the Lions made 10.0 tackles for a loss.

"They were really aggressive with us last year, and we weren't going to let that happen again," Hill said.  "We are a different team this year, and we came into this game with the mentality that we weren't going to lose."

The day started with an estimated 4.7 inches of snow blanketing Beaver Stadium.  It ended with a 42-yard field goal sailing off the right upright in front of a boisterous Penn State student, a play several Nittany Lions said that they could barely stand to watch.

"I turned away a little bit, but as soon as it hit the goal post, I looked and I just started smiling," said Redd.

"I tried not to watch it, but it is like a car wreck, you had to," Okoli joked after the game.

The Nittany Lions will head into a highly anticipated clash against Nebraska on Nov. 12 as the lone undefeated team in the Big Ten.  Penn State is 8-1 after a team victory on cold October Saturday in Beaver Stadium.

"It is huge to get a win heading into the bye week," Hill said.  "We are 8-1 heading into Nebraska.  It is a big momentum for us and we just have to go to work next week."


Stay tuned each week for the Faces of the Game feature where we highlight two Nittany Lions for their efforts on Saturday afternoon.


Follow GoPSUsports.com Media Specialist Tony Mancuso on Twitter @GoPSUTony

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Head into the Penn State locker room following Saturday's 10-7 victory over Illinois on a snowy day in Beaver Stadium.

GoPSUsports.com talked with several Nittany Lions from both sides of the ball after the win over the Illini.  See what the Lions had to say just after stepping off the field.

Follow GoPSUsports.com Media Specialist Tony Mancuso on Twitter @GoPSUTony

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Welcome to Beaver Stadium for gameday coverage of the Big Ten Leaders Division clash between Penn State and Illinois.

GoPSUsports.com will provide in-game coverage from all 12 contests during the fall.  Today, Penn State hosts the Illini in a pivotal division matchup.

Stay tuned throughout gameday for updates from the press box as things transpire.

1 p.m. - Good Afternoon from Snowy Beaver Stadium

Mark this day down in the record books as the first game in Penn State history during the month of October with measurable snow on gameday.  At the moment, the conditions consist of moderate snowfall with low visibility.  The grounds crew is working to clear the snow off of the tarp before it is removed in approximately an hour.

1:15 p.m. - First Measurable Snowfall Since 1996

Today marks the first gameday since Nov. 2, 1996 vs. Northwestern with measureable snowfall during a Penn State game.  Meteorologists have confirmed that this will be the first measurable snowfall since that game 15 seasons ago.

1:30 p.m. - Running Game

Penn State's offensive line has improved with each passing week.  Silas Redd's conference-leading 141.5 yards per Big Ten game is a good indicator of how well the O-line has played in the Big Ten.  The Nittany Lions will again look to establish the running game on Saturday afternoon against a very talented front seven for Illinois.  Moving the chains on the ground is very important for the Nittany Lion offense.  Given the weather conditions, the running game for both teams will see plenty of action.

1:45 p.m. - McGloin and Bolden Lead Lions off the Bus

Quarterbacks Matt McGloin and Rob Bolden led the Nittany Lions off the Blue Buses in front of a boisterous crowd outside the South Tunnel.  As is the team rule, the offensive line players did not have long sleeves on despite the chilly temperatures outside.

2 p.m. - Tarps Coming Off the Field

The large tarps covering the immaculate Beaver Stadium sod came off the field shortly before 2 p.m.  The footing should be good for both teams in the early stages of the game.  Large snowflakes continue to fall at Beaver Stadium 90 minutes prior to kickoff.  A big tip of the cap to the Beaver Stadium Grounds Crew for their efforts removing the snow from the tarp and their tireless efforts early in the week to get the field ready for the game before the snow arrived.

2:30 p.m. - Turnovers

Aside from the fumble on the opening kickoff at Northwestern, the Penn State offense played a turnover-free game in Evanston.  The offense has done a much better job limiting its mistakes during the past few weeks.  Against a defense like Illinois', another crisp performance will be very important for the Nittany Lions.  Turnovers played a big role in last season's clash with Illinois.  Ball control will play a huge role in today's game.  Keep an eye on the snaps and holds on kicking plays.

12:30, 1st Quarter - Illinois Takes Over
Penn State collected one first down on its opening drive but Illinois forced a punt and takes over at its own 26-yard line.

3:32, 3rd Quarter - Illinois on the Board with a Touchdown

Illinois took full advantage of its big defensive stand.  The Illini covered 64 yards on 11 plays en route to a 7-0 lead.  Nathan Scheelhaase connected with Spencer Harris on a 10-yard touchdown play.  An 18-yard run from Jason Ford fueled the touchdown drive.  Penn State's offense needs to find a rhythm.

End 3rd Quarter - Defense Forces Fourth Turnover

Penn State's defense has continued its trend of forcing turnovers in 2011.  Gerald Hodges caused a fumble on the final Illini series of the third quarter, giving the defense a season-high four forced turnovers today.  The Lions have forced 22 turnovers in 2011.

7:00, 4th Quarter - Illinois 7, Penn State 3

Penn State got a big play from its special teams unit when Brad Bars got his left hand on a punt.  The blocked kick handed the Lions a first down at the Illinois 31-yard line.  Penn State marched to the 5-yard line, but the Lions settled for a 30-yard field goal from Anthony Fera.

Final - Penn State 10, Illinois 7

Penn State's offense was held scoreless until the fourth quarter, but the Nittany Lions found a way to win when the game was on the line.  Silas Redd battled his way into the end zone from three yards out with 1:08 on the clock, capping an 80-yard touchdown drive to give the Lions a 10-7 lead.  However, the game was not over.  Nathan Scheelhaase and the Illini marched to the Penn State 25 before calling a final timeout with five seconds to play.  The Penn State students shifted behind the goal post in the south end zone, and Derek Dimke lined up for a 42-yard field goal that would have tied the game at 10-10.  Zimke's kick had plenty of distance, but it drilled the right upright before falling to the ground.  Penn State's defense held Illinois to 286 total yards and forced four turnovers in another dominant performance.  Penn State will head into its bye week 8-1 and 5-0 in the Big Ten.  Penn State is the lone unbeaten team in the conference.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Welcome to the Gameday Photo Blog from Beaver Stadium.  Stay tuned throughout Saturday for updated images from Penn State's ninth game of the 2011 season against Illinois.

A winter wonderland outside Beaver Stadium.

Beaver Stadium under a snow blanket.

The ultimate whiteout.

A look towards campus.

Field level as the crews work to remove the snow.

Matt McGloin and Rob Bolden lead the Nittany Lions off the Blue Buses.

The Nittany Lions taking the field.

Quinn Barham looking on during a snowy day in Beaver Stadium.

The tarp coming off the field.

The safeties going through pregame drills.

Drew Astorino.

The diehard Penn State students in the front rows ready for action.

Penn State getting ready to go.

The Nittany Lions taking the field.

Malcolm Willis

The Penn State offense.

Lined up for a snap.

The Penn State defense.

The Nittany Lion defense.


Making a tackle on defense.


First half action.


Staying warm on the sidelines.


Collapsing the pocket.

Joe Suhey Video Scouting Report

Eric Latimore Video Scouting Report

Tuesday Video Q&A with Jack Crawford & Chima Okoli

ABC Coverage Map

Around the Big Ten - Week Nine

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - The Nittany Lions return home this week for a critical Big Ten Leaders Division contest against Illinois.  Kickoff is slated for 3:30 p.m. Beaver Stadium with television coverage from ABC (ESPN2 outer market).

Penn State took a 27-24 lead into halftime en route to a 34-24 victory at Northwestern last week.  The Nittany Lion defense held the Wildcats scoreless in the second half and Gerald Hodges tallied his first career interception before Silas Redd scored the clinching touchdown one play later.  Legendary head coach Joe Paterno tied Eddie Robinson for the most career victories in Division I history last week with win No. 408.

This week, the Nittany Lions welcome a Fighting Illini squad coming off back-to-back losses against Ohio State and Purdue.  Penn State is the lone undefeated team in the Leaders Division, setting up this week's critical division game with Illinois.

Welcome to Penn State-Illinois gameday.

Pregame Reading:
What to Watch For - Penn State

1.  Penn State's offensive line has improved with each passing week.  Silas Redd's conference-leading 141.5 yards per Big Ten game is a good indicator of how well the O-line has played in the Big Ten.  The Nittany Lions will again look to establish the running game on Saturday afternoon against a very talented front seven for Illinois.  Moving the chains on the ground is very important for the Nittany Lion offense.  Additionally, Illinois is ranked No. 8 in the nation in sacks, including the nation's top individual sack leader Whitney Mercilus.  Pass protection off the edge will be another key area to watch with the Nittany Lion offensive line.  Simply put, Penn State's play in the trenches will play a big role in the outcome.

2.  On the defensive side of the ball, containing Illinois wide receiver A.J. Jenkins will be a big part of the gameplan.  Jenkins is one of the nation's top receivers with big-play abilities every time he steps on the field.  The Illini offense has made a habit out of living off of big passing plays from quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase to Jenkins.  The duo has combined for seven touchdowns.  Scheelhaase is another player for the Nittany Lion defense to contain.  A much-improved passer in 2011, Scheelhaase leads the team in rushing.  Penn State's defensive front will be looking to get into the backfield, but without overrunning plays when Scheelhaase has the ball in his hands.  Effective pass rush will play a big role in limiting both Scheelhaase and Jenkins.  Penn State's defense has forced 18 turnovers in eight games this fall.

3.  Aside from the fumble on the opening kickoff at Northwestern, the Penn State offense played a turnover-free game in Evanston.  The offense has done a much better job limiting its mistakes during the past few weeks.  Against a defense like Illinois', another crisp performance will be very important for the Nittany Lions.  Turnovers played a big role in last season's clash with Illinois.

What to Watch For - Illinois
1.  Illinois head coach Ron Zook said earlier in the week that he wants to ride his senior tailback Jason Ford this week.  Ford is one of three talented running backs for the Illini.  He has rushed for 392 yards and six touchdowns in 2011.  For Illinois' offense to establish its running game, the Illini offensive line will need a superb outing against Devon Still, Jordan Hill and the rest of the Penn State front seven.  It will be interesting to watch battle in the trenches when the Illini have the ball.  Illinois has rushed for nearly 200 yards per game this season.

2.  On defense, Illinois needs a big game from its front seven against the Nittany Lion running game.  Slowing down Redd and the Penn State rushing attack is critical for the Illini defense.  Should Penn State find some success on the ground, Illinois will face an uphill battle on the defensive side of the football.  Nonetheless, the Illini defense has been very strong in 2011.

3.  Illinois needs to get back on track following back-to-back losses to Ohio State and Purdue.  Coach Zook stressed the importance of his team playing loose and embracing the underdog role this week.  After starting 6-0, the Illini can ill afford another setback heading into the bye week.  Keep an eye on the intensity level from the visiting Illini in a game that is critical for their season.

Gameday Rundown
Breaking Down the Injuries:
Penn State: TE Garry Gilliam (knee) - Out, DE Pete Massaro (knee) - Out, LB Michael Mauti (knee) - Out, WR Derek Moye (foot) - Possible, RB Pat Zerbe (knee) - Out
Illinois: No published injury report

The Game:
Kickoff: 3:36 p.m.
TV: ABC - Carter Blackburn (PBP), Brock Huard (Analyst), Lisa Salters (Sidelines)
Radio: Penn State Sports Network - Steve Jones (PBP), Jack Ham (Analyst)
Online: GoPSUsports.com
Stadium: Beaver Stadium (106,572) - Natural Grass
Coaches: Joe Paterno - 408-136-3, 46th season
Ron Zook - 34-47 (57-61 overall), 7th season (10th overall)
The Series: Penn State, 14-4


The Final Word:
Penn State has not forgotten about its 33-13 setback to Illinois on homecoming last season.  Having won six straight games, the Nittany Lions bring a great deal of momentum into the pivotal division matchup against the Illini.  Penn State has built that momentum with strong play on defense and consistency from its offensive line.  Running back Silas Redd has played a big role in the Lions' success in 2011.  Look for the Lions to rely on No. 25 again on Saturday.  Illinois' defense is a very talented unit that will present Penn State with a stiff challenge in the trenches.  Moving the football on the ground will be key for both teams.  Illinois head coach Ron Zook wants to use senior tailback Jason Ford often on Saturday.  The Lions will be looking to limit big plays from the conference's leading receiver A.J. Jenkins, as well.  Coach Paterno said several weeks ago that the Lions are looking to improve each week.  Saturday's game is another opportunity to get better in a pivotal game one week before the bye.  The wildcard for Saturday is the weather.  Forecasters are expecting accumulating snow during the day.


Be on the lookout for the Gameday Photo Blog and live in-Game Blog from Beaver Stadium on Saturday.

Follow GoPSUsports.com Media Specialist Tony Mancuso on Twitter @GoPSUTony

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - As we do each week, the GoPSUsports.com Football Blog takes a look at all of the Big Ten games on the schedule.  There are six conference matchups this week.  In all, five Big Ten teams are currently ranked in the top 20 of the BCS.

Northwestern (2-5, 0-4) at Indiana (1-7, 0-4) - Noon - BTN

Two teams in dire need of a conference victory will collide in Bloomington on Saturday.  Indiana freshman quarterback Tre Roberson will be looking to build on a solid performance in his first ever start against Iowa last week.  Northwestern's offense played very well in the first half against Penn State last week, but the Wildcats need to find some consistency on defense.  Northwestern QB Dan Persa is expected to play, despite a turf toe injury.  Persa and the Wildcats have zero margin for error if they want to play in the postseason.

Purdue (4-3, 2-1) at #18 Michigan (6-1, 2-1) - Noon - ESPN2

The Boilermakers will take a great deal of momentum to Michigan Stadium after a 21-14 victory over Illinois last week.  The Boilers are beginning to find an identity behind quarterback Caleb TerBush and running backs Ralph Bolden and Akeem Shavers.  Michigan was off last weekend, and it has not been in action since a setback to Michigan State.  Denard Robinson will be looking for a strong outing against an underrated Purdue defensive unit.  The Wolverines need to bounce back at home on Saturday, but Purdue is improving every week.

#11 Michigan State (6-1, 3-0) at #14 Nebraska (6-1, 2-1) - Noon - ESPN

Michigan State has made its case to be the best team in the Big Ten up to this point during the season.  Coming off a dramatic victory over Wisconsin last Saturday, the Spartans travel to Lincoln for another pivotal game against Nebraska.  The Cornhuskers are very tough to beat at home, but no team is hotter than Michigan State right now.  Kirk Cousins and the Spartan offense need a mistake-free game.  Taylor Martinez and Rex Burkhead are the two key players to watch on the Nebraska offense.  Michigan State's defense is an elite unit, but Husker defense may be critical area to watch on Saturday.  It should be a very entertaining game to watch, especially the matchup between Martinez and the MSU defense.

Iowa (5-2, 2-1) at Minnesota (1-6, 0-3) - 3:30 p.m. - BTN

Iowa has quietly started 2011 with a 5-2 record.  Quarterback James Vandenberg and the Iowa receiving corps led by Marvin McNutt will pose a big challenge for the Minnesota secondary.  McNutt ranks second in the conference in receiving.  Minnesota's pass defense is ranked 10th in the Big Ten.  The Minnesota offense has struggled putting points on the board in 2011 (17.4 ppg).  The Golden Gophers need to find a way to visit the end zone, but Iowa's offense should have no trouble putting points on the board at TCF Bank Stadium.

#15 Wisconsin (6-1, 2-1) at Ohio State (4-3, 2-1) - 8 p.m. - ESPN

Ohio Stadium will play host to a very intriguing matchup between an improving Ohio State squad and a Wisconsin team looking to get its season back on track after a bitterly disappointing loss on the last play of the game in East Lansing.  The big story in Columbus will be how the Badgers respond.  All eyes will be on quarterback Russell Wilson.  Look for Ohio State to use Dan Herron early and often to turn this contest into a ball possession game.  Wisconsin's defense needs to step up for the Badgers, but Wilson and the Big Ten's leading rusher, Montee Ball, must get back to playing efficient offensive football.  Wisconsin is still very much in the race for a berth in the Big Ten Championship Game, and it needs this game.


Follow GoPSUsports.com Media Specialist Tony Mancuso on Twitter @GoPSUTony

Joe Suhey Video Scouting Report

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Penn State returns home this week for a pivotal Leaders Division clash against Illinois.

GoPSUsports.com will get you ready for the game with a pair of video scouting reports.  We kicked things off with Joe Suhey on Wednesday.  Moving to the defensive side of the ball, we caught up with senior defensive end Eric Latimore.

Latimore has made 11 tackles in 2011, including 2.0 sacks.  The Delaware native have broken up two passes.  Latimore and the Nittany Lion defense have spent the week preparing for athletic Illinois quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase.  Take a look at what he has to say about it.

Follow GoPSUsports.com Media Specialist Tony Mancuso on Twitter @GoPSUTony

By Scott Traweek, GoPSUsports.com Student Staff Writer
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - The role of a senior on the Penn State women's soccer team carries with it a number of responsibilities.

Seniors are leaders, leading by example both on and off the field.  They welcome incoming freshmen to the team and embrace them into the Nittany Lion tradition. They are the glue that holds the team together when faced with adversity, brewing the chemistry that drives their team through the season.

"It all surrounds our leadership," said senior defender and team captain Emma Thomson.  "We have to be the ones that lead the team through thick and thin.  Whenever things are good, whenever things are bad it's always on our seniors' shoulders and we take it with great pride."

It's the seniors who pass down the Penn State tradition from generation to generation.  They set the tone in the locker room, during practices and during games.

"I think they're the ones that set the culture," said head Coach Erica Walsh.  "As far as I'm concerned the culture on this team right now is the best that it's ever been during my time here and I directly attribute it to the work that they put in."

Their hard work has paid off with a Big Ten trophy for every season they've played as a Nittany Lion, extending their future alma mater's streak of consecutive conference championships to 14.  The fact is every senior knows Penn State is expected to win the Big Ten year after year.

"We're [14]-time big ten champs and you learn that from your freshman year to your senior year," said redshirt senior Meghan Gill.  "By the time you're a senior you know what it means... to step out on that practice field every day and work to be that champion, not just show up on game days."

"Every team looks at us as the biggest target and so we always have to come out each game strong and focused and ready to battle for every game," added senior captain Jess Rosenbluth.

A senior's experience plays a key role in keeping the team focused.  Whether the previous game ended in a win, tie, or loss, it is up to them to bring the team back to Earth in preparation for their next opponent.

"It's really helpful having a lot of experience," said Rosenbluth.  "Each game provides you a different challenge so being able to play each game and through it for four years is really helpful."

The impact the seniors have had on such a youthful team this season was made apparent early on.  The Nittany Lions opened the season with a 4-0 setback to Stanford, the second-ranked team in the country.  Since then Penn State has gone 16-2-0, 9-1-0 in the Big Ten, with a flawless 7-0-0 record at home.

Not only have the players learned fundamentally from the game against Stanford, they have come together as a team, led by their seasoned veterans, combining for a school record 69 assists with goals from 11 different players and should they run into the Cardinal again somewhere down the road, the result will be different.

"The most important thing is expectations and their expectations are high," said Coach Walsh.  "I don't think they're interested in just being good this year and I think they show that in the way that they trained."

"I just think it shows the depth, the strength of our team and how dynamic we are as a unit," added Thomson.

Each senior provides something different to the team as a whole.  Players like Carly Niness and Krissy Tribbett bring energy to the field during practice and games when the team is in need of a spark.  Senior captains Jess Rosenbluth and Emma Thomson lead by example, passing along their knowledge of the game to their younger teammates.  Senior midfielder Ali Schaefer stepped up with career highs in both goals (4) and assists (5).  Meghan Gill adds a passionate and determined personality, along with her entertaining women's soccer blog.  Together these seniors helped build the team that won Penn State's 14th straight Big Ten title.

"There's a lot of work done off the field that these seniors do in their own little ways," said Coach Walsh.  "We have all sorts of leaders in this senior class and I think they've all done their part to take this team to where we are right now."

Penn State heads into its final game of the regular season against Purdue Friday night at 7 p.m., Senior Night.  The Nittany Lions will then enter the Big Ten Tournament boasting one of the top offenses in the country backed by a defense with 11 shutouts, all led by an experienced senior class hungry for a national championship.

"For them [the seniors], I think it's a stepping stone," said Coach Walsh.  "I think it's a stepping stone to something bigger and hopefully the experience we gained in the Big Ten this year will help us on the national stage."

By Laura Finley, GoPSUsports.com Student Staff Writer
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Anticipation has taken hold of the Penn State women's volleyball team as it heads into the second half of the 2011 season this weekend. The Nittany Lions know their time as a young team is slowly coming to an end as they now have experience with each team in the conference and hold an 8-2 Big Ten record.

"Everyone talks about how we're a really young team, but it's a long season," said senior defensive specialist Megan Shifflett. "It's taken us a while but things are slowly starting to come together. Hopefully everything clicks at the right time when we need it to."

With six seniors graduating last year, it was a new beginning for the team. Even with consistency a recurring problem throughout the season, the Nittany Lions have worked hard to find success on the court in an effort to carry on the Penn State volleyball legacy.

Troubles in communication and limiting errors were evident from the start with players trying to establish their new roles on the team. As the second half of the season arrives, freshman defensive specialist Lacey Fuller says improvements are evident.

"I think people are trying to start talking a lot more," said Fuller. "Communication is not to where it needs to be yet, but in general it has gotten better. When we're competing and comfortable talking with each other, everything else just falls into place."

Shifflett has noticed these same improvements and hopes that with the team working together, there will be more wins to come in the future.

"It's a process," said Shifflett. "There are times where you can see little things coming together with the communication and with eliminating errors. It will come on an individual basis where you'll see one particular player get better at something they couldn't do earlier in the season. As the individual success piles on, the team slowly comes together too."

As the team comes together on the court, the Nittany Lions look to the rest of the season with excitement knowing they have faced each Big Ten team once already. The rematches will not be easy, however, as six out of the ten remaining games are against Top 25 ranked teams.

"Right now it's getting tough," said Fuller. "This is the time when it's determined who's going to win the Big Ten which is really important. I think this weekend is going to set the tone for the next half of the Big Ten season."

This weekend will not be an easy one for the Nittany Lions who host Iowa on Friday, only to return to Rec Hall on Saturday night for a match against No. 1 Nebraska. Shifflett knows a win against Nebraska will be huge for the team, as it will give them an added boost of confidence for the rest of the season.

"With Penn State and Nebraska there's always been that rivalry. Obviously they are number one which adds a certain amount of pressure, but there's so much history between us that it makes it a big game."

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - GoPSUsports.com kicks off its weekly feature for the Nittany Lion wrestling team.  After providing one-on-one video interviews with members of the wrestling program last fall, This Week In Penn State Wrestling is back for the 2011-'12 season.

Take a look at an interview with assistant coach Aaron Anspach.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Saturday's Big Ten home opener against Iowa will be seen on ABC in 32 percent of the nation.  The game can be seen on ESPN2 in the remaining areas.

Take a look at the coverage map.

Follow GoPSUsports.com Media Specialist Tony Mancuso on Twitter @GoPSUTony

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Penn State returns home this week for a pivotal Leaders Division clash against Illinois.

GoPSUsports.com will get you ready for the game with a pair of video scouting reports.  We open the weekly scouting reports with a conversation featuring senior running back Joe Suhey.

In typical Joe Suhey style, the senior has been productive in a variety of ways in 2011.  The senior has carried the ball 12 times for 47 yards (5.9 avg.) and tallied 10 receptions for 97 yards (9.7 avg.).  He has scored two touchdowns.  Suhey has also played an instrumental role in blocking and on special teams.

Follow GoPSUsports.com Media Specialist Tony Mancuso on Twitter @GoPSUTony

With a full fall of racing already under their belts, the Nittany Lions will begin the "championship" portion of their season this weekend, traveling to the Big Ten Cross Country Championships at the University of Illinois.  Both squads turned in fourth-place efforts at the 2010 conference meet, and will be looking for even more success in 2011.

The following is the seventh of a series of blog posts from senior Caitlin Lane (Greenwich, N.Y.). Lane is a team captain, as well as an NCAA all-region standout in cross country, and an NCAA qualifier in track and field. The senior also holds a pair of school records, including the indoor 1,000-meters (2:45.95), and outdoor 4x800-meter relay (8:39.44) outdoors.

Big Ten Championships 2011

Over the past two weeks, we've been trying to find our spark. I don't know if we necessarily found it, but I'm not sure we need it. There is no doubt in my mind that we all want to be champions, and there is no doubt that we know how to do it. I believe in the girls on my team, and I hope they believe in me. We've worked hard and we deserve to leave champions. But who's to say we deserve it more than anyone else? That is what we need to remember. Everyone has put in the work and everyone thinks they deserve to win. It is how you handle the pressure and what you leave on the course that determines who gets to be crowned Big Ten Champions.

The hay is in the barn, as they say, so there is nothing we can do now running wise to help us on Sunday. We can, however, prepare mentally. If we can keep our cool and not stress about this weekend we can do great things. Our goal at the beginning of the year was to be Big Ten Champions. This is not going to be easy. Just like every competition we've faced this year, it's going to be a challenge. But if we get scared and ease up when the race gets tough, then we don't deserve to win. When the going gets tough, we have to get tougher. If we can get ourselves up in the front and stay there, we will be able to walk away with our heads held high.           

It's my senior year. My last Big Ten Cross Country Championship. I will do everything I can to help my team walk away with the title. There is no more, 'oh, I have next year.' This is it. I want to leave Illinois feeling the way I did in 2009 when we won. Through my whole career here there has been no better feeling than when the ten or eleven of us were standing in a huddle waiting for the results, secretly knowing that we had won. It didn't matter how tired we were, we jumped up and down in celebration anyway. We cheered, we cried and we screamed. To this day, nothing really compares.     

I'm confident in my girls, and I'm confident in myself. We can get the job done. Winning a championship is worth the pain. It is worth pushing that extra little bit even if you don't want to. We only get four opportunities to win a cross-country Big Ten title. We're going in on a mission and I'd be scared if I was you! WE ARE!

By Scott Traweek, GoPSUsports.com Student Staff Writer
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - With victories at Michigan State (3-1) and Michigan (4-0) over the weekend, the Nittany Lion women's soccer team captured its unprecedented 14th consecutive Big Ten title, the longest streak by a Big Ten women's program in any sport.

Though the stakes were high prior to the two crucial conference away games, the players remained zeroed in on their goal.

"Just play our game," said sophomore sensation Maya Hayes. "I think that's been our mindset throughout the entire season... We have to take each game one step at a time and I think that was the main focus this weekend."

After struggling early and falling behind 1-0 against the Spartans, Penn State emerged victorious following a three-goal offensive blitz in the second half within a span of 15 minutes.  Two goals by Hayes put the Lions ahead and a score by junior midfielder Maddy Evans just 87 seconds later sealed the deal.

"You can prepare for one part of our team, but you can't prepare for everything," said Hayes.  "There's no right way to mark us or right way to stop us and I think that's one of the crucial pieces of this team this year is everybody's a big part and plays a big role."

The Nittany Lions carried that momentum into Sunday's match against Michigan, whom they attacked early and often, jumping out to a two-goal lead by the end of the first half.  When the second half began, the players never let up as Hayes scored her second goal of the afternoon, fourth of the weekend, adding to her nation-leading season total of 25 goals.  Senior midfielder Ali Schaefer capped off the afternoon with her career high fourth goal of the season giving Penn State the win 4-0 and the conference championship.

"It's a tradition," said sophomore forward Taylor Schram on winning a 14th straight Big Ten crown.  "We're a family with everybody that's been here before us and our team now and Penn State pride is the most important thing to us, so to carry on a tradition like that, it means a lot to all of us."

"Winning brings confidence," added goalie Erin McNulty.  "I think we're just working hard and trying to get better every day and hoping to be where we want to be at the end of the season."

The urge to continue the streak of winning the Big Ten was apparent in each player this season.  They expect to win every year.  As head coach Erica Walsh has said in the past, their focus and determination is displayed in the way that they train during practice and battle during games.  They believe in the Penn State tradition and those players who came before them.  They know what needs to be done to play at a consistently high level.

"That's been our motto for forever and we really bought into that this season," said Hayes on following in the footsteps of their predecessors.  "Just to play for those who came before us and to put work in every single day whether it's practice or a game or a light day or a hard day.  Whatever it takes to just make each other better."

At the core of Penn State's success through the years have been the coaches.  As freshmen enter college and seniors leave, it's up to the coaches and recruiters to bring in new talent and integrate these players into the Penn State tradition.  They energize the players prior to every game and help refocus the team afterwards.  Both on and off the field, the coaches are the ones who build the foundation for their team.

"They are the people that get us ready every year," said Schram.  "They train us hard, they make sure that we're mentally prepared for every game, and they keep us focused, so they are a huge piece of it all."

"[Coach Walsh] gives us a speech before the game and we all look at each other and we're like 'we are so lucky to have such a wonderful speaker,'" added freshman midfielder Emily Hurd.  "She just gives us so much energy."

With the Big Ten conference under their belts, the Nittany Lions crave more.

"This year we have higher standards, so it was great to win the Big Ten, but we want to keep moving forward," said Schram.

Penn State plays its final game of the regular season at home against Purdue Friday at 7 p.m.  It's Senior Night and the players look to extend their 10-game winning streak, while protecting a daunting 7-0-0 home record.

Tuesday Video Q&As - Jack Crawford & Chima Okoli


UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Last season, Penn State wanted to use its clash against Illinois as a springboard into the bye week.

The Nittany Lions came into the game 3-2 on the season, but walked off the field on a sunny afternoon at Beaver Stadium with a 20-point defeat (33-13) to Nathan Scheelhaase and the Illini.

Penn State (7-1, 4-0) has not forgotten about the setback to Illinois (6-2, 2-2).  While it may be later in the season, and the Lions' record may be different in 2011, the circumstances are very similar.  The Lions are hosting the Illini on the week leading up to the bye.

"It was a bad experience, but a learning experience," junior defensive tackle Jordan Hill said.  "We're a different team from last year."

At Tuesday's weekly press conference, Coach Paterno said that he remembers last season's setback to Illinois as a "good lickin'".  Last season is in the past, and Hill is right, Penn State is a much different squad this fall.  And so is Illinois.

"Generally speaking, Illinois is the best football team we've played outside of Alabama, personnel and scheme‑wise, everything else," Coach Paterno said.  "They'll be the toughest for us up to now except for Alabama."

Illinois may be entering the week on a two-game slide after losses to Ohio State and Purdue, but do not let the record fool you.  The Illini are a very talented bunch on both sides of the ball.  Wide receiver A.J. Jenkins has 56.6 percent of Illinois' receiving yards, the most in the nation by a wide margin.  Defensive end Whitney Mercilus leads the nation sacks.

"I think they're a good team," Coach Paterno said.  "I think they're down four fine players.  I think their offensive line's a good football group.  So they've got two or three running backs that it's tough to tell one from the other.  Great whiteout.  So you look at it.  You don't just stare at any one part of their game.  You've got to be ready for good solid all‑around squad.  We've got to play a better football game than we've played all year."

Sophomore Nathan Scheelhaase leads the Illinois offense.  Scheelhaase is an athletic player with very good speed in the open field.  He has the tools to hurt a defense with his arm and his legs.  The sophomore is much-improved passer from one season ago.  He is completing 65 percent of his passes in 2011, compared to 58 percent last year.  He leads the team in rushing with 412 yards, as well.

"I think (Scheelhaase is) one of the top three quarterbacks in the conference," Coach Paterno said.  "He can run.  He does the things that hurt us.  He scrambles well...I think he's going to be a real problem for us."

Penn State will need to play a complete game this week.  As Coach Paterno said, the Nittany Lions will have their hands full with a talented Illinois team on Saturday afternoon at 3:30 p.m.

"It is going to take a total team effort to prevail in this one," senior offensive tackle Chima Okoli said.  "We are just ready for the challenge."

Press Conference Notes:
- Penn State wide receiver Derek Moye is listed as "possible" for Saturday's game on the weekly injury report.  Coach Paterno said that Moye is close, but would not be ready to play this week against Illinois.  The squad is hopeful to have Moye back in time for Nebraska.

- Senior fullback Joe Suhey has been battling a shoulder injury over the past couple weeks.  Coach Paterno said that he is fine to play on Saturday, but has been wearing a green cross (no contact) at practice.

- Coach Paterno had this to say about wide receiver Devon Smith:

"Well, he can run.  Speed's a big thing.  Particularly in certain things you want to do.  He's had his struggles.  He's not a natural.  He's had to work hard with his hands, timing, body control, so that he can put himself in position to make the catch.  To his credit he's done that... He's a tough kid...He's had a pretty good run into the year.  And he'll try to block you.  I know how tough he can block (laughter)."

- Coach Paterno shared a story on his athletic career at Brown during Tuesday's press conference:

"I played basketball one year until I guarded (Bob) Cousy and he got 35 points in 6 minutes..."

- Nittany Lion senior offensive tackle Chima Okoli was asked what his thoughts were on the Penn State quarterback situation.  Okoli had this to say in response:

"Like I always say, if [Coach Paterno] gave me a say in the quarterbacks I'd be back there. I don't have a say in the quarterbacks, unfortunately, which is unfortunate for you guys too because I'd be putting on a show."



Follow GoPSUsports.com Media Specialist Tony Mancuso on Twitter @GoPSUTony

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Take a look at a pair of Tuesday Football Q&As with senior offensive tackle Chima Okoli and senior defensive end Jack Crawford at Beaver Stadium.

Chima Okoli

Jack Crawford

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Take a look through some of the significant numbers following Saturday's 34-24 victory at Northwestern.

1: Penn State's defense may have only forced one turnover on Saturday night, but it was huge one.  After Jordan Hill tipped a Dan Persa pass at the line of scrimmage, Gerald Hodges hauled in a Penn State interception before returning it 63 yards.  One play later, Silas Redd visited the end zone, which gave Penn State a 34-24 lead in the third quarter.

5: Penn State's ball carriers had 38 rushing attempts on Saturday night.  The group averaged 5.0 yards per carry.

6: Following the fumble on the opening kickoff, Penn State's offense scored on six consecutive possessions, including four touchdowns and two field goals.

7: Penn State's defense made a season-high 7.0 sacks against Northwestern.  Defensive tackle Jordan Hill accounted for two sacks.

14: Junior linebacker Gerald Hodges gets better with each passing week.  Hodges tallied a career-high 14 tackles to go along with 1.5 sacks and a pivotal interception in the second half.

110: Junior wide receiver Devon Smith played a big role in a solid night for the Nittany Lion offense.  Smith hauled in a 45-yard touchdown en route to six receptions for a career-best 110 yards.

164: Silas Redd rushed for a career-high 164 yards at Northwestern.  Redd has rushed for more than 100 yards in four straight games.  Tony Hunt (2006) was the last Lion to post four-straight 100-yard games.

408: Legendary head coach Joe Paterno earned his 408th career victory, tying Eddie Robinson for the most victories in Division I history.

Monday Notebook:

Redd Leading the Big Ten

Sophomore running back Silas Redd has put together four straight superb games.  The Connecticut native leads the Big Ten (in conference games) with 566 rushing yards.  Redd also ranks No. 16 in the nation with 108.62 rushing yards per game.  Redd has been outstanding after contact in 2011.  As the Nittany Lion offensive line continues to jell, look for more big things from No. 25.

Lions Ranked No. 19 in BCS

The Nittany Lions are ranked No. 19 in the BCS this week.  With a BCS average of .3071, Penn State trails No. 18 Michigan by four-hundredths of a point.  The Nittany Lions are ranked 19th in the Harris and USA Today polls.  Penn State is ranked 17th in the Computer Rankings.  The BCS formula includes an average of six computer rankings.  Of the five teams ranked from the Big Ten, Penn State has the second highest computer average behind Michigan State (15th).

Weekly Defense Ranking Update

Penn State's defense remains among the nation's elite in several statistical categories this week.  The Lions are ranked eighth or higher in three major NCAA statistical categories this week.  The Nittany Lions are ranked eighth in total defense (281.88 ypg), fifth in scoring defense (13.13 ppg), eighth in pass efficiency defense (97.47), 14th in pass defense (180.00 ypg) and 19th in rushing defense (101.88 ypg).

Early Look at Illinois

Illinois will make the trip to Happy Valley for the second straight season this week.  The Illini enter the game with the Nittany Lions looking to snap a two-game losing skid.  Illinois opened the season 6-0 before suffering back-to-back losses to Ohio State (17-7) and Purdue (21-14).  Illinois' offense has played six out of its last eight quarters without scoring a point.  The Illini scored one touchdown in the fourth frame against Ohio State and two scores in the fourth quarter in a comeback effort against Purdue.

The Illini scouting report begins with quarterback Nathan Scheelhaase, who leads the team in passing and rushing.  He has rushed for 412 yards and five touchdowns.  Additionally, Scheelhaase has thrown for 1,624 yards with 11 touchdowns and five interceptions while completing 65 percent of his passes.  A.J. Jenkins is the top target on the Illinois offense.  Jenkins has made 62 receptions for 987 yards with seven touchdowns.  Jenkins is a big-play receiver capable of scoring a touchdown on any snap.  Jason Ford (392), Troy Pollard (388) and Donovan Young (359) will all see time at tailback. 

Defensively, end Whitney Mercilus leads the nation in sacks with 10.0.  Overall, Illinois ranks No. 10 nationally in total defense (289.00 ypg) and No. 15 in scoring defense (18.13 ppg).  Statistically, Illinois has been very good on defense in 2011.  Penn State leads the all-time series between the two teams, 14-4.  Illinois defeated the Nittany Lions 33-13 at Beaver Stadium in 2010.

Illinois Week Coverage

Stay tuned to GoPSUsports.com for extensive coverage leading up to Saturday's 3:30 p.m. (ABC) kickoff in Beaver Stadium.  Coach Paterno will meet the media on Tuesday afternoon at 12:30 p.m. during his weekly press conference.  Stay tuned for Tuesday video Q&As, video scouting reports and more.


Follow GoPSUsports.com Media Specialist Tony Mancuso on Twitter @GoPSUTony

By Jeff Sattora, GoPSUsports.com Student Staff Writer
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - This time last season the Penn State Lady Lions were coming off a 17-14 (8-10) record and a sixth place finish in the Big Ten.

What a difference a year makes.

This year's squad, coming off an eight-win jump and a 25-10 (11-5) record that included a second place Big Ten finish and second round NCAA tournament berth, is looking to make noise on a much bigger stage.  One of the biggest reasons the team thinks that can happen is one word, experience.

Last year's team, which had nine of the 11 players at a freshman or sophomore eligibility level had a strong season despite the inexperience sometimes playing a factor.

"What's different is we are able to get through things a little faster," head coach Coquese Washington said on this year's group compared to last year.

"The team is familiar with what we want to do conceptually so were able to progress a little faster through things, were able to gel as a team, it's coming along a little faster than maybe it did last year," she added.

Being able to jump right in quicker is something the players noticed as well.

"Experience helps a lot; I think everyone feels a lot more confident," said sophomore guard Maggie Lucas.

"Everybody is a year older, a year smarter, everybody's attitude has changed," said the lone starting senior on the team, guard Zhaque Gray.

One other area that can be seen as a level of improvement is maturity with the success of last season under their belt.

"I think we've all matured," said junior point guard Alex Bentley, "We all learned from last season, we all got better from last season, and we've worked on our weaknesses and tried to make them strengths."

"Everybody got better over the summer, we got better individually and now it's just a matter of us putting that together and playing and gelling as a team," said Coach Washington.

Last year's success has been used to help push this older group to newer heights, including having every player set the goal of 10,000 made shots over the summer, which was a success.

For Washington having last year's success has changed some things in how this year's team is being coached.

"Every year you coach a team a little different because of the personalities and the new people and how the team responds to challenges," she said.

"Some things change in terms of the mental approach," Washington added.  "But we haven't changed in terms of the level of accountability that we have and our expectations day in and day out for us playing and practicing at a high level."

Looking at this year's squad the experience it brings back will only be a plus in terms of that mental approach and the team's goals.

"Coquese (Washington) is expecting a lot from us so we have tuned in to what she wants," said forward junior Nikki Greene. "We're all just coming together and staying focused."

"I feel like we're working harder and we're ready to win," said Zhaque Gray.

Any coach will be happy when they hear that.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Penn State sophomore tailback Silas Redd prides himself on yards after contact.

The Norwalk, Conn., native rarely goes down after the initial hit.  Redd put his hard-nosed running on display Saturday night with another career performance in Penn State's (7-1, 4-0) 34-24 victory at Northwestern (2-5, 0-4).  The sophomore leads the Big Ten in rushing during conference games with 566 yards (141.5 ypg) in four contests.

Always humble, Redd was quick to say thank you to the Nittany Lion offensive line for their efforts on Saturday night.  But the evening belonged to No. 25.  He registered a career-high 164 yards on 18 carries (9.1 ypc), many of which coming after initially being hit.