Three defensive players competing in Hula Bowl

A trio of players from Penn State's nationally ranked defense have accepted invitations to play in the 60th Hula Bowl on Saturday, January 21.

Safety Calvin Lowry, defensive tackle Scott Paxson and defensive end Matthew Rice will represent the Big Ten Champion Nittany Lions in Hawaii.

The game will kick at 7:00 p.m. ET and air on ESPN2.

A two-year starter at the Hero position, Lowry earned First Team All-Big Ten honors for his efforts in helping Penn State rank first or second in the Big Ten in five primary defensive categories.

The Big Ten coaches recognized Paxson's efforts by selecting him first team all-conference this past season.

Also a two-year starter, the Philadelphia native recorded 10.5 tackles for losses (minus-33 yards), to rank fourth on the team.

A starter in every game this year and 30 of the last 31 contests, Rice was recognized for his efforts with his selection as Second Team All-Big Ten. Rice was third on the squad with 5.0 sacks for minus-40 yards and 9.0 tackles for a loss.