Report Card: Grading Penn State’s 9 overtime loss to Illinois

A more in-depth look and grades for the performance of the Nittany Lions in their 9 overtime loss to Illinois

Defense: C+

The defense had a decent start to the game. They made some big stops when it mattered. However, they have definitely had better performances after today.

Losing PJ Mustipher was huge and it really showed. They have also dealt with injuries on their defensive line all season.

Penn State also got lucky with a good amount of Illinois penalties and the game should’ve been a higher scoring contest. However, the defense showed out when it mattered after a rocky performance from the Penn State offense.

Oct 23, 2021; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions safety Jaquan Brisker (1) warms up prior to the game against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

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