Penn State was already depleted at linebacker. All three starters are out. That’s why senior walk-on Brandon Smith was starting in the first place.

But a targeting call ended Smith’s day.

It looked like Smith was trying to make a play on the ball, but he did make contact with the crown of his helmet. Whether or not that warranted a flag is another discussion.

The play was reviewed and ultimately upheld:

Smith was ejected from the game, which means that redshirt freshman Jan Johnson is now in at linebacker for the Lions. That would also mean Smith would be out for the first half next week, too.

Penn State’s defense is running out of bodies at this point.