Report Card: Grading Penn State’s win over Maryland

Penn State had a very up-and-down performance against Maryland in Week 10, but they finished much better than how they started the game. With a 31-14 victory over the Terrapins on the road, Penn State snapped its three-game losing streak and clinched bowl eligibility for the 2021 season.

Let’s take a more in-depth look and grade the performance of the Nittany Lions win today.

Quarterbacks: A-

Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Sean Clifford finished better than how he started. Penn State’s offense started off very shaky to open up the game. Even though he didn’t have consistent protection, Clifford had a very up-and-down performance in the first half. Clifford has played much more like himself ever since their loss to Illinois two weeks ago.

Next: Running Backs

Running Backs: D

Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

The running backs couldn’t find any sort of momentum today. There were a few nice catches from Noah Cain and Keyvone Lee, but the ground game could not execute today. With Michigan and Michigan State coming up, they are really going to have to figure something out and find a way to be a more productive run game.

Next: Wide Receivers

Wide Receivers: A-

Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Despite the monster performance from Jahan Dotson, there wasn’t a ton of movement in the passing game either. Parker Washington had an impressive game last week against Ohio State, but was pretty quiet today against Maryland. Dotson kept the Nittany Lions in this game today, giving them an extremely productive passing game and an elite grade.

Next: Defense

Defense: B-

Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

The defense had a better game last week against Ohio State, but today was still a productive day for Penn State’s defense.

Penn State edge rusher Arnold Ebiketie was mentioned in the defensive keys post as a player that has climbed his way up the draft boards. He has had a very impressive stretch the past two games.

Special Teams: A

There wasn’t a ton of big action today from the special teams today. Jordan Stout continues to execute and made some key field goals late in the game, and his one rare shank on a punt didn’t come back to haunt Penn State in this one.

Follow Nittany Lions Wire on Twitter and like us on Facebook for continuing Penn State coverage and discussion.