Penn State Football: Zettel Picks Up Conference Honors Following Big Weekend

Anthony Zettel suited up for the Nittany Lions just 24 hours after the passing of his father this weekend because he felt that’s what his father would want him to do.

 The 6-foot-4, 284-pound defensive tackle took the field for the 37-28 win versus San Diego State and looked like the disruptive force we’ve become accustomed to seeing.

He picked up a career-high seven tackles, including 2.5 for a loss and half a sack, and a fumble recovery and pass deflection, earning Big Ten Co-Defensive Player of the Week honors, alongside Michigan State DE Shilique Calhoun.

After the game, coach Franklin revealed Zettel had been traveling home to Michigan to be with his family after each game and there was no expectation for Zettel to play under the circumstances.

“There has been no pressure for him to play the last three weeks. That was completely up to him.” Franklin said. “It shows the type of commitment and the type of bond these kids have as a family.”

The Penn State defense has endured numerous injuries, but the team continues to rally against the odds, exemplifying the tight-knit family they often speak on.

“Ever since I heard about that I was praying for Zettel and his dad, and I’m always playing for those guys,” said fellow defensive line Austin Johnson. “I have No. 5 on my left wrist and “Tebowing” on my right wrist for his dad. I’ll be playing for those guys for the rest of the season.”

This is the first time Zettel has claimed Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week honors, and he is now tied for 15th on Penn State’s all-time TFL list with 32 and sits solely at 15th on the all-time in sacks list with 16.5.