Michigan Football: 5 Key Plays that led to a win at Penn State

Michigan football defeated the Penn State Nittany Lions 21-17 on the road in front of 109,000 people. U-M maintained a lead for the majority of the game but had to come back late after some miscues.

Michigan football played a tough and gritty game against Penn State. This was exactly what we expected to happen against the Nittany Lions. There were multiple monumental plays that took place throughout the game that led to the Wolverines successfully coming out of Happy Valley with a win.

Some, in retrospect, were crucial in this game. Other plays we knew right away the impact they had on the game. Let’s go into detail on some of these plays. The plays are ranked in order based on their importance. Starting at 5 and working down to 1 (most important).

5. Missed Field Goal On 4th & 5 At Michigan’s 25 (6:46 3Q)

It’s not totally clear whether or not Michigan got a hand on the football, but that blocked kick was a crucial miss and a complete momentum swing to the Wolverines.

The Nittany Lions started off with a fantastic field position after the Wolverines had to put it deep inside their own territory. Penn State quickly moved the ball 25 yards down the field but was stuffed and held to a field goal attempt.

If Penn State continues this drive or even makes this field goal it could lead to a different narrative in the game.