Heading into the season, there was a lot of talk about how Penn State still had some of the conference's top tight ends.
Saturday night, on a national stage, Andrew Rappleyea played like one.
Rappleyea, who has battled injuries through much of his career and who was injured earlier this season, looked the part of an NFL-caliber player. He snagged seven catches for 63 yards, including a first-quarter touchdown that tied the game at 7-7.
He also, as usual, was active as a blocker. Throughout the game, Rappleyea could be seen looking for USC defenders to hit down the field.
Lastly, he made some clutch catches, too. The touchdown is already noted, but he had a fourth down catch late in the game as Penn State looked to rally.
Others Considered
Chase Sowell, Wide Receiver:He shook off an injury to finish with four catches for 95 yards. If and when Koby Howard returns from his injury, Sowell and Howard will form one of the better 1-2 punches at wide out that Penn State has had in years.
Ryan Barker, Kicker:It hasn't been a perfect season for Barker, who missed only one field goal all of last season. But, he certainly looked like himself on Saturday night, going a perfect 3-for-3 on field goals including one from 48 yards out.
