Penn State Faces Minnesota Amidst Key Player Injuries

On Saturday, No. 4 Penn State travels to Minneapolis for a significant Big Ten conference clash against Minnesota, which could impact the Nittany Lions‘ ambitions for the College Football Playoff. Penn State enters the game with an impressive momentum, having convincingly won their last two games by a combined score of 85-16. However, Minnesota remains a formidable opponent, boasting a strong defensive lineup and winning four out of their last five encounters, including a high-scoring 48-point game against Maryland.

Adding complexity to the matchup, Penn State could potentially be without starting wide receiver Julian Fleming, who is listed as questionable on the Big Ten’s availability report. Fleming has played a crucial role for the Nittany Lions, not only in receptions but also as a downfield blocker. His absence would leave the team with depth concerns at the wide receiver position. In contrast, starting Minnesota safety Aidan Gousby, who has been instrumental in their defensive success with one of the team’s 16 interceptions, is confirmed out for the game.

Penn State will possibly address Fleming’s absence by leveraging the talents of younger players such as redshirt sophomore Anthony Ivey and true freshman Tyseer Denmark. Denmark, who recently made his 2024 debut, is expected to see more playing time as the season progresses. Additionally, tight ends Khalil Dinkins and Luke Reynolds, who caught his first career touchdown last week, might see an increased workload.

Defensively, Penn State will be without cornerback Elliot Washington II, who was injured last week. Known for leading the team in pass breakups and contributing 19 tackles, Washington’s absence will require strategic adjustments from the Nittany Lions’ defense.

Minnesota leads the Big Ten in turnovers forced and turnover margin, making them a potentially disruptive force against the highly-ranked Penn State. The matchup will also serve as a homecoming for Penn State’s offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki, who grew up near the game venue, Huntington Bank Stadium.

With plenty at stake and injuries affecting key players, this game is anticipated to be a defining moment for Penn State’s playoff aspirations and Minnesota’s defensive showcase. The game kicks off at 3:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on CBS.