Twelve bad quarters followed by four great ones. If this is an all-or-nothing season for Northwestern, what comes next? But first a look back at NU’s shocking 29-6 victory at Penn State.
Offense
B+ Trevor Siemian missed some throws and lineman Eric Olson jumped on a third-and-1, but there was so much good against a defense ranked sixth nationally in points allowed. The blocking was terrific, and Justin Jackson shook two would-be tacklers on a 9-yard run.
Defense
A+ A remarkable 10 players made the tackles-for-loss column. Middle linebacker Anthony Walker’s superb debut included eight tackles and a pick-six. Safety Godwin Igwebuike rocked receiver DaeSean Hamilton.
Special teams
C An odd mix. The good: C.J. Robbins blocked a low field-goal try, and Miles Shuler returned a punt 42 yards. The bad: Marcus McShepard’s punt-catch interference penalty, and Jack Mitchell missed two extra points and a 44-yard field goal by miles.
Coaching
A- The defensive scheme pressured QB Christian Hackenberg, and Walker was fully prepared to replace Collin Ellis. Offensive coordinator Mick McCall exposed the middle of Penn State’s defense. It was smart to use Mitchell, an outfielder on NU’s baseball team, for a fake field goal. But holder/backup QB Christian Salem did not pitch the ball.
