What time is it? Game time!!

Week Four: Penn State at No. 17 Wisconsin

Sorry Folks, this week has been hell on Earth for me.  I’ve had no time to do anything, so this week’s preview will be very short and sweet.  I’m very sorry.

Home:  Camp Randall Stadium (80,321)

Mascot: Badgers          

2005 Record: 10-3, 5-3 Big Ten

Coach: Brett Bielema 8-1 Overall, 0-0 vs. Penn State

Beat Auburn in Capital One Bowl, 24-10

Points Scored 2005: 446

Points Allowed 2005: 309

 
2006 Record: 8-1, 5-1 Big Ten

Last Game: Beat Illinois 30-24

Off. PPG 2006: 32.3

Def. PPG 2006: 12.9

 
Top Players:

RB P.J. Hill

LB Mark Zalewski

 
Game day Analysis:

Overall – It all depends on if RB PJ Hill is ready to go.  Wisconsin needs to have a good running game to control the clock and the tempo of the game.  The Badger defense is much underrated, and will have to stack the box against a resurgent Penn State running attack.  Don’t look for many blitzes from Wisconsin, but former defensive coordinator, now head coach Brett Bielema might throw a new wrinkle for the Lions.

Team Profile: PSU

 
Mascot: Nittany Lions

Home: Beaver Stadium (107,252)

2005 Record: 11-1, 7-1 BigTen

Coach: Joe Paterno, 360-120-3, 4-6 vs. Wisconsin

Won Orange Bowl vs. No. 22 Florida State 26-23 (3OT)

Points Scored 2005: 413

Points Allowed 2005: 204

 
2006 Record: 6-3, 4-2 Big Ten

Last Game:  Beat Purdue, 12-0

Off. PPG 2006: 22.6

Def. PPG 2006: 14.8

Top Players:

RB Tony Hunt

LB Paul Pozluszny

Game day Analysis:

Overall – No mistakes this week are the biggest key to the game.  Penn State could have blown away Purdue, but couldn’t capitalize on red zone opportunities and long drives.  The Lions will want to get RB Tony Hunt rolling early and control the line of scrimmage.  QB Anthony Morelli was doomed by his receivers dropping pass after crucial pass against Purdue, and could have a career-defining game in Madison.  However, Joe Paterno wants another 200 yards on the ground.  The defense needs to keep doing what they’ve been doing.  If they make key plays like they did against Illinois and Purdue, they will need help from the offense.  Penn State wants to take away Wisconsin’s running game like they did last year.  Look for the wide receivers to work harder than any unit Penn State has, as they want to redeem themselves.

FINAL SCORE:  PENN STATE 20 – WISCONSIN 24

Mike Pettigano is a regular contributor for dcmetrosports.com. His e-mail address is