Royster breaks Penn State career rushing mark as Nittany Lions top Michigan
By Aaron Rieber | Sun, 10/31/2010 - 07:37
Penn State 41 – Michigan 31
Matt McGloin had never started a game in his collegiate career. But with last week's injury to Rob Bolden, the walk-on from Scranton got the nod against Big 10 rival Michigan, and the Nittany Lions now may have a beneficial problem - two young quarterbacks that they have faith in. McGloin passed for 250 yards and rang up 435 total yards and 41 points as Penn State held off a furious comeback effort by the Wolverines, who have now lost three straight. Tailback Even Royster ran for 150 yards and surpassed Curt Warner as Penn State's all-time leading rusher in the win.
GAME FLOW
Royster rushed for two touchdowns in the first quarter, as he wasted no time becaming the team's all-time leading rusher. In between Royster's touchdowns, Michigan got a 32-yard rushing touchdown by quarterback Denard Robinson, who was once again a monster for the Penn State defense. McGloin took control in the second quarter, throwing for one touchdown, and sneaking another one in from a yard out, sending Penn State into the half with a 28-10 lead. Robinson scored two more touchdowns and threw for another as he did all he could in the second half to bring Michigan back from a three touchdown deficit. It was not enough as Colin Wagner made two second half field goals and Michael Zordich rushed in from five yards for Penn State's final touchdown.
OFFENSE
On the ground: Royster not only passed the record, he smashed it by rushing for 150 yards on 29 carries, giving McGloin the rushing attack he needed to pass the ball when necessary. Robinson led all rushers with 191 yards and three touchdowns on 27 carries.
Through the air: McGloin threw for 250 yards in his first collegiate start. He had just one passing touchdown, but threw no picks and had no turnovers, which was huge for the offense. He finished with 17 completions on 28 attempts. For Michigan, Robinson threw for one touchdown and 190 yards, and also did not turn the ball over. He was 11 for 23 in the air.
DEFENSE
Penn State's defense allowed over 400 yards, but held on and fought off Robinson and Michigan in the second half, especially the fourth quarter's comeback attempt. Neither defense caused any turnovers, but Penn State dug down when the game looked like it could get away from them, while Michigan's defense allowed the team to fall behind too far.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Colin Wagner was 2 for 2 on his field goal attempts, making one from 32 yards and one from 42 yards. He was also 5 for 5 on extra points.
GAME BALL
McGloin had to start a tough game against a quality opponent, and all he did was pass for 250 yards protect the football.
NEXT UP
The Nittany Lions continue their Big Ten schedule as they take on Northwestern at Happy Valley next Saturday.
