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Brent Pry talks familiarity with Josh Gattis, potential future head coaching opportunities
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Brent Pry has been the mastermind behind one of the nation’s top defenses this season. As good as Penn State has good offensively through six games, the Nittany Lions defense has been even better.
On Thursday, Pry spoke with the media about a few different topics, but two in particular were interesting. First, Pry was asked about the challenge of game-planning for Josh Gattis and the Michigan offense — given that Gattis and Pry spent six years together on James Franklin’s staffs at Vanderbilt and Penn State.
Pry said there’s still a “bond” with Gattis after spending so much time together and that he’s looking to pick up on some tendencies that can help Penn State’s defense be successful again this Saturday.
From Audrey Snyder at The Athletic:
https://twitter.com/audsnyder4/status/1184856773045428228?s=21
Penn State’s defense has been one of the most effective in the country thus far, but Gattis’ familiarity with Franklin and Pry could challenge that unit.
Through six games, Penn State is the only team in that country that hasn’t allowed an opponent to score multiple touchdowns in a game. It’s also allowing 1.59 yards per carry, the best run defense in the country based on that stat.
Because of Penn State’s defensive strength, the appeal of Pry taking on a head coaching job has increased. The Penn State defensive coordinator also answered that question, saying he evaluates certain opportunities that are offered to him. He also gave credit to Franklin, who he said has been supportive of potential future opportunities.
https://twitter.com/audsnyder4/status/1184862108585992195?s=20
Pry’s popularity will only increase if Penn State’s defense shuts down Michigan this Saturday, getting to 7-0 on the season and setting up a potential B1G East showdown with Ohio State. That game could very well determine the division.
But first things come first. Pry and Penn State are focused on Michigan. It’ll be interesting to see how Pry and Gattis attempt to outsmart the other on Saturday.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB