That is not the way Penn State wanted to start 2020.

For much of the season opener against Indiana, the Nittany Lions looked sluggish and mistake-prone on offense. Even with that rough start, Penn State still rallied and took the lead on a big throw by quarterback Sean Clifford.

After taking a slim 21-20 lead, the Nittany Lion defense stood its ground and forced a quick turnover on downs by Indiana. That gave James Franklin’s squad an opportunity to run the clock out.

Unfortunately, Devyn Ford ran for a touchdown on the ensuing play. Why is that an issue? It gave Indiana the time to come back down the field and tie the game with a touchdown and two-point conversion. The Hoosiers then won with a touchdown and two-point conversion in overtime.

After the game, Franklin was asked both about the touchdown running blunder and the razor-thin dive by Indiana’s Michael Penix Jr. that won the game. Here’s what he had to say:

https://twitter.com/audsnyder4/status/1320154427140018177?s=20

https://twitter.com/audsnyder4/status/1320153952638455810?s=20

https://twitter.com/audsnyder4/status/1320155149197860865?s=20

Now, the Nittany Lions will pivot to focus on getting ready for facing Ohio State next Saturday.