Jim Harbaugh says Penn State's defensive line is one of the B1G's best
When it comes to Penn State, most of the conversation revolves around its high-powered offense led by senior quarterback Trace McSorley. But Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh has a lot of respect for what the Nittany Lions can do on the other side of the football.
Tuesday, Harbaugh spoke to the media on the B1G coaches teleconference, talking about the Wolverines’ matchup this Saturday. He had quite the compliment for the Penn State defensive front.
“I think it’s one of the best we’ve faced,” Harbaugh said of the Lions’ defensive front. “I think it’s the best we’ve played so far. Aggressive group that’s very strong with inside pass rush as well as speed and power on the edge.”
Penn State’s defensive line was solid in last weekend’s win over Iowa. Defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos earned the B1G Player of the Week honors after registering nine tackles, four stops for loss and two sacks.
Linemen Shareef Miller and Shaka Toney have also been dominant in the trenches this year, combining for 16 tackles for loss.
Harbaugh’s praise of Penn State is pretty high, considering the Wolverines have seen some pretty good defenses this year. Michigan has battled Notre Dame, Wisconsin and Michigan State.
Penn State’s defense has given up some big plays late in games this season, most notably in losses to Ohio State and Michigan State. But the front has been stout most of the year.
It will be interesting to see how Michigan’s offensive line will handle the pressure Penn State applies this weekend.