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James Franklin managed to escape West Lafayette with a win over Purdue. It wasn’t without some challenges, however.
Penn State had to make a QB change in the 3rd quarter when Sean Clifford left the game momentarily with an injury. This allowed for fans to get a glimpse of Drew Allar, before Clifford eventually made his return.
Following some poor clock management late in the game by Purdue, Sean Clifford was able to rally and throw the game-winning touchdown to RB Keyvone Lee late in the 4th quarter.
Franklin was quick to state that the win over the Boilermakers was a “character win” in his post game press conference. He also gave some insight as to why Clifford left the game, and what his injury was. Clifford was apparently dealing with cramps and had to get an IV.
The Penn State HC also talked about how important developing depth at all positions is in college football. He also highlighted how he will handle his running back room, and various things the team needs to improve before their next game.
Penn State has Ohio next on Sept. 10. Here’s what Franklin said at the presser:
Franklin in his opening statement: “This is a character win for our program. It was a tough win.”
— Onward Sports (@OnwardStSports) September 2, 2022
Franklin said Clifford’s absence was due to a cramp. He had to go get an IV and continued to cramp after, which is why Allar continued to warm up.
— Onward Sports (@OnwardStSports) September 2, 2022
Franklin: “I am determined to develop depth. Last year we weren’t able to do that and it cost us.”
— Onward Sports (@OnwardStSports) September 2, 2022
Franklin on Clifford’s pick-six: “Sean showed character over his entire career so I’m really happy for him…the guy knows he made a mistake.”
— Onward Sports (@OnwardStSports) September 2, 2022
Franklin on the pass rush: “[O’Connell] gets the ball out quickly. There’s very few people who get a ton of sacks against these guys…we were able to get sacks when it mattered most.”
— Onward Sports (@OnwardStSports) September 2, 2022
Franklin said he will continue to rotate running backs until one guy gets hot.
— Onward Sports (@OnwardStSports) September 2, 2022
Franklin said Caedan Wallace “has some things to work on.” Overall, the offensive line “battled.”
— Onward Sports (@OnwardStSports) September 2, 2022
Grant Bricker covers the B1G for Saturday Tradition. His previous stops include the Williamson Homepage and Nashville Post.