Penn state Dominates Nevada 38-7 in Season Opener, But shows Room for Enhancement
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STATE COLLEGE, PA – Penn State kicked off its 2025 season with a decisive 38-7 victory over Nevada on Saturday, showcasing a dominant defense and a potent, though initially sluggish, offense. The Nittany Lions, harboring national championship aspirations, controlled the game from start to finish, but weren’t without areas needing refinement as they head into a three-game stretch of tune-ups.
This season opener offered a first look at a Penn State team aiming to build on recent success and contend for a College Football Playoff berth. While the win is a positive start, the performance revealed a need for offensive cohesion and finishing drives, despite a strong defensive showing and special teams contributions.
Offense: C+
The Nittany Lions’ offense,boasting experience and depth,experienced a slow start,especially with its blocking. While they ultimately amassed 38 points, the unit settled for four field goals despite reaching Nevada territory on promising drives. A 73-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by Nick dawkins in the second quarter provided a significant spark.
“A rather slow start, by some measures, for this experienced and deep offense, especially its blockers,” noted a report from the York Daily Record. “Give them a cohesion/continuity pass for now considering it was their first live action in more than seven months.”
Defense: A-
Penn State’s defense appeared well-prepared, especially considering the expected adjustment period. The Wolf Pack struggled to move the ball consistently against a relentless Nittany Lions front seven. Details on specific defensive statistics were not immediately available,but the unit largely contained Nevada’s offensive threats.
Coaching: B
Head coach James Franklin and his staff demonstrated preparedness, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. The team appeared disciplined and executed the game plan effectively. However, the offensive struggles in the red zone raise questions about play-calling and adjustments.
Overall: B
Penn State secured a solid victory, but the performance wasn’t overwhelming. The Nittany Lions will need to improve their offensive efficiency and red-zone execution as they prepare for upcoming games against Delaware, villanova, and Illinois before their crucial September 27th matchup.
“A solid start for a team with national championship aspirations,” the York Daily Record reported. “They certainly didn’t overwhelm the Wolf Pack,at least by how they went about the lopsided victory.”