EAST LANSING, Mich. – Penn State celebrated a much-needed victory on November 11, 2023, defeating Michigan State 28-10 for the Land Grant Trophy. This win marked the end of a frustrating six-game losing streak that had plagued the Nittany Lions. The players carried interim head coach Terry Smith on their shoulders, showcasing their relief and joy after a challenging stretch.
The team struggled throughout the previous weeks, facing a series of defeats that left them searching for answers and questioning their capabilities. Defensive end Dani Dennis-Sutton expressed the team’s relief, stating, “Yeah, it just feels good not to be on a losing streak.” The victory not only provided a sense of accomplishment but also reignited hopes for a bowl game appearance.
During the game, the Nittany Lions demonstrated their potential by limiting Michigan State to just 229 total yards, with only 172 coming after the first play. The defense, which had faced criticism earlier in the season, sacked quarterback Alessio Milivojevic five times, two of which were executed by Dennis-Sutton. Safety Zakee Wheatley acknowledged the defense’s improved performance, saying, “Right now it’s just starting to click. We’re starting to play for each other.”
Offensive Breakthroughs Shine Through
On the offensive side, Penn State finally showcased its ability to stretch the field. Quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer connected with wide receiver Devonte Ross for a stunning 75-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter, marking the longest completion for the Nittany Lions in two years. Grunkemeyer noted, “It felt good to finally break through on something like that,” highlighting the strategic planning that went into the play.
The effectiveness of the passing game helped to open up running lanes for the team’s backs. Kaytron Allen enjoyed a standout performance, rushing 25 times for a career-high 181 yards, with 106 of those coming in the fourth quarter. The Nittany Lions finished the game with a season-high 240 rushing yards, an accomplishment that interim head coach Smith attributed to the offensive line. “They dominated the line of scrimmage and the game,” he said.
The Nittany Lions’ performance against Michigan State was a stark contrast to their previous outings, where they struggled defensively against teams like Oregon and UCLA. Wheatley remarked on the team’s journey, expressing a mix of relief and excitement, “It’s really a bunch of feelings right now,” he said. Players were left contemplating why it took until mid-November to display their true capabilities.
A Season of Missed Opportunities
Despite the jubilant atmosphere post-game, the Nittany Lions could not ignore the struggles that led to this moment. Their six-game losing streak included narrow defeats, with five losses by a total of just 16 points. The frustration of missed opportunities lay heavy on the players as they celebrated, prompting reflections on what could have been.
As the season progresses, Penn State remains in the hunt for a bowl berth. The victory over a struggling Michigan State team, which now faces its seventh consecutive loss, offers a glimpse of what the Nittany Lions can achieve when they perform to their potential.
This win serves as a reminder for Penn State that the talent is there, but consistency will be key moving forward. With renewed energy, the team can focus on building momentum as they prepare for the final stretch of the season.
