Penn State Fans Anxious After Nittany Lions Fall to Ohio State in Big Ten Clash
ICARO Media Group
**Penn State Fans Lose Patience as Nittany Lions Stumble Against Ohio State**
In a crucial Big Ten encounter, Penn State’s head coach, James Franklin, faced the wrath of disappointed fans following the Nittany Lions' 20-13 loss to Ohio State. The defeat, which took place on Saturday afternoon, left some fans questioning Franklin’s leadership as he was met with boos while leaving the field.
James Franklin, who has been at Penn State for 11 seasons, holds a dismal 1-10 record against the Buckeyes. The latest loss was eerily reminiscent of previous encounters, with the Nittany Lions failing to produce game-changing plays and struggling to penetrate Ohio State's staunch defense. The defeat marked the end of Penn State's impressive 7-0 start to the season, with this particular stumble occurring on their home turf.
The game was highlighted by Ohio State's impenetrable defense, which successfully kept Penn State’s offense out of the end zone. A notable moment came late in the first half when Ohio State defensive back Davison Igbinosun wrestled the ball away from Penn State wide receiver Harrison Wallace III. This critical play prevented the Nittany Lions from closing in on the score, leaving them trailing 14-10.
Penn State's only touchdown of the game came from their defense in the first quarter. Zion Tracy intercepted a pass from Ohio State quarterback Will Howard and returned it 31 yards for an early 10-0 lead. However, this defensive effort was not enough to secure the victory.
In their final attempt to tie the game and force overtime, Penn State fell short, turning the ball over on downs at the Ohio State 3-yard line with just over five minutes remaining in the game. Three consecutive running plays by Kaytron Allen yielded no result, and quarterback Drew Allar’s fourth-and-goal pass fell incomplete. Ohio State then controlled the clock for 11 plays, sealing their victory.
Drew Allar managed only 146 passing yards under the guidance of first-year offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki, struggling against Ohio State's fierce defense. Conversely, Ohio State’s quarterback Will Howard threw for 182 yards and two touchdowns, showing a more efficient performance.
With both teams now holding a 7-1 record, they trail behind the unbeaten Indiana and Oregon. Penn State will look to bounce back as they prepare to host Washington, who currently stand at 4-4, next Saturday.