The Penn State Nittany Lions close out their non-conference schedule on Saturday against Army, and they're looking to improve to 4-1 on the season. Here are three reasons why Penn State will do just that this weekend:
3) Christian Hackenberg's talent
Hackenberg has struggled this season, but is coming off his best performance of the season, throwing for 296 yards and three touchdowns against San Diego State. His offensive line is starting to give him more time in the pocket, and if he continues to get that, he'll shred Army's defense for over 300 yards and three more touchdowns.
2) Army's overall struggles
The Black Knights finally picked up their first victory of the season last weekend against Eastern Michigan, but started their season with losses to Fordham, Connecticut, and Wake Forest. Penn State is substantially more talented than all of those teams combined, and they're playing in Happy Valley. Army doesn't really stand a chance in this one.
1) Dominant defense
Penn State finished 29th in total defense (353.42 ypg) last year, but the true measure of their success was the fact that they tightened up even more with their backs against the wall, giving up just 18.6 points a game (7th in the nation). That success has continued this year as they rank 15th in the country in total defense and only allow 16.3 points per game. Considering Army's offensive struggles, Penn State should win easily.