Penn State Shockingly Falls To Iowa in Big 10 Opener

(Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

After a full year of waiting for revenge, Penn State got its opportunity, and they fell short. After a first play 79 yard touchdown from Darryl Clark to Chaz Powell, it all went downhill for the Nittany Lions.

Penn State failed to stop the run as they gave up 163 yards on the ground, giving up critical runs late in the game. While Penn State’s rushing attack did not look good as running back Evan Royster only had 69 yards on 17 carries.

Both defenses played solidly, but before kickoff this looked like an unwinnable game for Iowa as they were heading into Happy Valley in a white out, in the prime-time game, and revenge looming in Penn State’s minds.

Quarterback Darryl Clark, who had waited for this night so long, was shut down by an Iowa defense that just seemed to pressure Clark play after play. Clark only completed 12 of his 32 passes while throwing 3 interceptions. It looked a lot like Darryl Clark last season against Iowa.

After a personal foul penalty Penn State had gotten the ball on Iowa’s 36, and Evan Royster fumbled after trying to get some extra yardage. Another critical point in the game was a blocked punt by Iowa defensive end Clayborn who ran it back 51 yards for a score.

Later, Clark was intercepted again with over four minutes left on the clock. Clark looked red hot after completing his first five passes, and then he went cold finishing the game 12 of 32. However, Iowa’s defense settled down after the first play and they came into Happy Valley determined to get a win. After the first quarter Iowa forced Penn State to three straight three and outs, including a safety.

Missed opportunities were what shot Penn State in a game they were destined to win; however, Penn State can still make a run at a Big 10 title. The road is tough, but they will have to beat Ohio State in a game that will probably decide who wins the Big 10.

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