Knockout blows: Penn State scores on long TD pass, punt return to pull away from Michigan State
Penn State has broken this game wide open.
After trailing 21-10 at halftime, the Nittany Lions have stormed back to take a comfortable lead in the waning minutes of their game against Michigan State.
Penn State was leading 25-24 early in the fourth quarter when Sean Clifford hit Parker Washington for a 49-yard touchdown to put the Nittany Lions up by eight.
Here’s the play:
.@PennStateFball was once down 21-10.
They now lead 32-24, thanks to @cpw_3. ⚡ pic.twitter.com/bhjhaw5OTQ
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) December 12, 2020
That probably would have been enough, given how Michigan State’s offense has struggled in the second half. But the Spartans went back for more.
After getting a stop on the ensuing possession, Penn State returner Jahan Dotson caught the punt and took it 81 yards to the house.
Here’s that play:
81-YARD punt return for Jahan Dotson! 💥@PennStateFball | @H55ZY pic.twitter.com/MItwA6RVaS
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) December 12, 2020
Penn State has out-scored Michigan State 29-3 after halftime to take a commanding 39-24 lead.
Clifford has had one of his best passing games of the season, completing 17-of-27 throws for 232 yards and two touchdowns.
PSU is looking for its third win on the season but just its first at home.