Penn State's offense is one that is based largely on ball control and crisp passing. But last night, the team seemed content with playing a long ball offense that Gorman described as "lethargic."

The Penn State backfield constantly played aerial balls to a smallish frontline that looked absolutely tiny compared to a George Mason backfield that features no player less than 6-feet tall.

Yet it was the defense that was the lone bright spot last night, and it was largely the defender's play that allowed the Lions to extend their national-best unbeaten streak to 12 games.

This 12-game run that dates back to November 2003, and is now Penn State's longest such streak in 40 years.

The Lions had few scoring opportunities in regulation, but the offense finally seemed to come to life in the overtime periods.

Towards the end of the first overtime, forward Joe Zewe seemed poised to score the game winner following a series of remarkable saves by Patriots keeper, John O'Hara. But after seeming to be beaten, O'Hara came from nowhere to make a remarkable save and keep George Mason alive.

Then with 1:21 remaining in the second overtime, Penn State midfielder Mike Lindemann rocketed a ball toward the net following a scramble in front. The goalkeeper seemed out of position, but defender Josh Fleming made the impressive defensive save by flicking the ball over the crossbar with his outstretched leg.

Penn State's finishing touch has been up and down all year, and after watching his team struggle to put the ball away yet again, Gorman couldn't help but be disappointed.

"When you play at home you have to expect to take the game to the other team," he said. "We came out flat tonight."

Walters was also left searching for answers.

"Our heads weren't in it today," he said. "We can't let that happen again or a better team will put us away."