With three games under the Nittany Lions’ belt, Penn State fans should start to get an idea of what their team has to offer in 2013. Before heading into conference play, Penn State will face one final test, a talented Kent State squad that put together an impressive 2012 season. Don’t let the name or conference affiliation fool you, the Golden Flashes aren’t a team to overlook. Here’s a breakdown of Penn State’s Week four opponent.
Last Year: (11-3)
After opening the season 1-1, Kent State exploded, winning the next 10 games. The streak included a 35-23 victory over No. 15 ranked Rutgers on the road and a 45-43 defeat of Ball St. The Golden Flashes would go on to lose to No. 21 Northern Illinois 44-37 in double overtime and drop the season ending GoDaddy.com Bowl game to Arkansas 17-13.
Top Performers Lost:
Kent State will have the unenviable task of replacing 2,000 yard passer Spencer Keith who tossed 12 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in 2012 but was an important part of the Golden Flashes’ offensive attack. David Fisher will need to step up quickly into that role if Kent State is going to repeat its stellar 2012 season.
Top Performers Returning:
Maybe one of the best players Penn State will face all season, Dri Archer rushed for over 1,400 yards and totaled 16 touchdowns last season. Archer carried the ball only 159 times but did it as a slot player not a running back. Trayion Durham will also return for the Golden Flashes and was responsible for 276 carries for 1,316 yards and 14 touchdowns. Overall there is little doubt the running back position is Kent State’s strongest and will be called on even more as a new quarterback is worked into the system.
Defense:
Kent State is looking to fill some holes in the secondary and at the linebacker position but otherwise will rely on a pass rush led by Roosevelt Nix at DT. Nix is one of the conference’s best pass rushers with 20 sacks to his name and despite even being slightly undersized many think he has the skill and athleticism to play at the next level. Strong safety Luke Wollett returns to the team as well with 119 tackles and will be key to breaking in new players in the secondary.
Story of the offseason:
Kent State started a Heisman campaign for Archer this offseason but his chances will rely heavily on getting a new quarterback and the offense in general clicking again. The going won’t be easy though as the Golden Flashes will play at LSU the week before meeting Penn State as part of a six game span that includes only one game at home. If the team can come together quickly in the first two games of 2013 it has a chance, otherwise the successful 2012 campaign may soon only be a painful reminder of what was.
