September 24, 2012 at 10:46 AM
Penn State-Temple grades
Quarterbacks - A
A reborn Matt McGloin had one the best games of his career Saturday against Temple. He completed 66 percent of his passes for 318 yards and a touchdown. He also had Penn State's first two rushing touchdowns of the season. His one interception was a tipped pass off the hands of wide receiver Brandon Moseby-Felder. Head coach Bill O'Brien and quarterbacks coach Charlie Fisher raved about McGloin's improved decision making after the game. After four games, he tops the Big Ten with 1,006 passing yards and nine passing touchdowns.
Running backs - B
Zach Zwinak quietly gathered 94 rushing yards and 12 receiving yards Saturday. He averaged more than five yards per carry on the ground. Michael Zordich played in his second game at tailback, and he also totaled more than 100 all-purpose yards. Even Paul Jones was involved in the backfield, but his single carry resulted in a 7-yard loss. Curtis Dukes did not play on offense due to a thigh injury, but he did see the field on special teams. Derek Day and Bill Belton dressed, but did not play. O'Brien said he will continue to utilize a running back committee upon their returns. While McGloin ended Penn State's rushing touchdown drought Saturday, the Nittany Lions' running backs have still yet to punch it into the endzone.
Wide receivers/tight ends - B-plus
The Lions' receiving corps doesn't seem to be feeling the loss of Shawney Kersey. Allen Robinson remains the primary target, and he added another touchdown to his resume Saturday. McGloin distributed the ball very evenly, and found different guys open all over the field. Redshirt freshman Kyle Carter snagged another five catches for 70 yards, although he committed an offensive pass interference penalty that stalled a drive in the second quarter. Matt Lehman continues to contribute after a coming onto the scene against Ohio. Brandon Moseby-Felder did miss one pass that bounced off his hands for Penn State's sole interception of the game.
Offensive line - B-plus
McGloin generally had several seconds to work with in the pocket. He was knocked down a few times, but never sacked. Zordich has talked about its ability to make gaps for him in the running game, as well. Matt Stankiewitch had the line's only offensive hold on a run-blocking assignment for Zordich.
Special teams - C-plus
Sam Ficken's three made extra points and 21-yard field goal tell nothing of whether the sophomore is ready to handle longer tries in more pressured situations. However, it remains a baby step in the right direction. Ficken also had a tackle on kickoff coverage, but officials flagged him for a late hit. Got to give him effort points, though. Alex Butterworth did nothing to showcase his leg's strength, but four of his five punts were taken in Temple territory. He pinned two inside the 20. True freshman Jesse Della Valle had a 29 yard punt return. Paul Jones saw action on Penn State's hands team, falling on a Temple onside kick.
