Penn State-Michigan State review: Fourth-down aggression continues to pay dividends

Penn State's offense has 29 fourth-down attempts this season. It's the most since Bill O'Brien took over in 2012. The team has converted 21 of 29, with a 72.4% conversion rate. Franklin's team is also ranked 93rd nationally on third-downs. The play of the game in the 35-16 win over Michigan State was a catch by Nick Singleton on fourth down. He missed two field goals earlier in that game. After the win, Franklin said he was playing the right way. His team's third down success rate is much lower than in previous years.

Penn State's run defense let the Michigan debacle happen. Coziah Izzard had his best performance with the Nittany Lions. Tight ends accounted for 13 of Penn State’s 27 offensive touchdowns through 12 games. Jake Pinegar missed two field goals, but he has one more year of eligibility. Dominic DeLuca had a fourth-down pass breakup and a special teams tackle.