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They tested each other almost every day in the August heat, their pads popping, their helmets crackling and their bodies aching.
Several Penn State veteran players said it was the most physical preseason camp they had endured. Whether it was coach James Franklin’s aim or not, the offensive line and the defensive line are better for it.
“When you practice hard, it makes the game easier,” defensive tackle Dvon J-Thomas said Tuesday. “I feel like you guys are starting to see that now, especially when we get into this Big Ten play.”
The Nittany Lions dominated Illinois, a team that prides itself on being more physical than its opponent. They rushed for more yards (239) than the Illini had rushing and passing combined (219).
They imposed their will and beat Illinois into submission last weekend.
“Illinois is an incredible team,” J-Thomas said. “Shoutout to them and their coaching staff. But physically we were just the more dominant team. That’s a credit to Coach Losey (strength and conditioning coach Chuck Losey), Coach Franklin and our preparation that we had in camp, in the summer and now in the season.”
The play of the defensive linemen so far has not been a surprise. Whether it’s been Sean Spencer, John Scott or now Deion Barnes coaching them, they’ve been the most consistent position since Franklin arrived at Penn State.
They have at least two future pros at defensive end in Abdul Carter and Dani Dennis-Sutton and at least two at tackle in J-Thomas and Zane Durant, who had a sack and another tackle for loss against Illinois.
“It’s just a very talented defensive line across the board, J-Thomas said. “We really jell well.
Zane is doing a tremendous job of using his talent, his skill, his speed and his strength. He’s elevated the defense. He’s doing an incredible job right now.”
So is the…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/penn-state-strength-front-stems-034700340.html
Author : Reading Eagle, Pa.
Publish date : 2024-10-02 03:47:00
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