Lightning Delays Cause Disruption at West Virginia vs Penn State Game in Morgantown
ICARO Media Group
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. - A game between West Virginia and Penn State at Milan Puskar Stadium in Morgantown faced numerous disruptions due to lightning flashes on Saturday. The extended delays caused frustration among players and fans, but eventually, the game was able to resume.
Following the clearance of lightning activity in the area, the game recommenced at 4:24 p.m., cutting short an earlier plan to restart at 3:50 p.m. that was canceled due to further lightning sightings. As the rain finally subsided, the sun made a partial appearance in Morgantown, where the 8th-ranked Penn State team held a commanding 20-6 lead over West Virginia at halftime.
During the delays, Penn State players sought shelter under an overhang in the corner of the stadium, while the team staff continuously adjusted seating arrangements according to the unpredictable weather conditions. As the weather improved slightly, a few hundred dedicated fans returned to their seats, while team personnel patrolled the sidelines.
Since the initial delay at 2:04 p.m., right at halftime with Penn State's 20-6 lead, fans were required to seek shelter in the concourse level or nearby practice facility of West Virginia or return to their cars. After some time, fans complied with the safety protocols.
Dark clouds swiftly rolled over the Morgantown campus, which was hosting the Nittany Lions for the first time in 32 years. Shortly after, heavy rain poured down on the grass surface, forcing fans to seek cover.
Amidst the rainfall, glimpses of the radar on the video boards showed a mix of green, yellow, and red, indicating varying intensities of precipitation. The rain eventually diminished to a drizzle, prompting some fans to venture into the concourse area.
To ensure everyone's safety, a minimum of 30 minutes must pass between lightning strikes before the 15-minute countdown for game resumption can begin. Each subsequent lightning strike resets the countdown, causing additional delays.
As for the on-field action, Penn State demonstrated their offensive prowess in the first half, scoring on three of their last four possessions. Quarterback Drew Allar connected with wide receiver Harrison Wallace III for an 18-yard touchdown pass, capping off a solid performance before the interruption.
Meanwhile, West Virginia managed to put points on the board through a pair of field goals by Michael Hayes. Their ball control and time of possession ultimately outmatched Penn State, with the Mountaineers running 44 plays compared to the Nittany Lions' 27.
Heading into the second half, Allar showcased his skills with 199 yards and three touchdowns on 8 of 13 passing. Wallace proved to be a key target, hauling in five receptions for 117 yards.
Penn State is aiming for their 50th victory in the series against West Virginia, boasting an impressive 49-9-2 record all-time.
Despite the challenges posed by the weather delays, both teams are determined to finish the game and provide the spectators with an exciting conclusion to this eagerly anticipated matchup.