The 2016 Penn State football season was a rollercoaster, and it's fascinating to reflect on how it was covered by Black Shoe Diaries (BSD). From preseason predictions to the magical night against Ohio State, and the wild Rose Bowl, it was a season filled with drama and memorable moments. Here's a deep dive into how BSD captured the essence of that tumultuous year.
A Season of Uncertainty and Potential
The season began with a sense of uncertainty. After back-to-back seven-win seasons and a change in coordinators, the predictions were muted. Most BSD staff, including the author, predicted 8-4 or 9-3, with varying degrees of pessimism. The highlight of this section is the author's recollection of a colleague's prediction, which included a potential upset loss to Michigan State, a team with quarterback questions. This prediction, though ultimately incorrect, showcases the early optimism and cautious optimism surrounding the team.
Post-Michigan Setback and Resilience
The Michigan game was a wake-up call. A 49-10 shellacking at the hands of a dominant Michigan team exposed the defense's weaknesses. The post-game analysis on BSD focused on the team's resilience and the need for improvement. The author emphasizes the contrast between the team's performance and the expectations, highlighting the need for a 'now what' mindset.
'Fingerprint' Win Over Minnesota
The Minnesota game was a turning point. Chris Taylor's write-up emphasizes the team's ability to overcome adversity, with younger players stepping up due to injuries and their role as the best option. This 'fingerprint' win, as Taylor calls it, showcased the impact of James Franklin's recruiting and the team's ability to find solutions in the face of challenges.
Ohio State Upset and Big Ten Title
The Ohio State game was a pivotal moment. The author describes the excitement of PSU fans and players learning about Ohio State's win over Michigan during the game. The team's response was remarkable, as they took control and ultimately clinched the Big Ten East title with a 45-12 win over Michigan State. This section captures the emotional rollercoaster of the season, from the initial uncertainty to the triumph over adversity.
Big Ten Championship and Rose Bowl Heartbreak
The Big Ten Championship game against Wisconsin was a showcase of Penn State's resilience. Despite an early three-TD deficit, Trace McSorley's heroics and Saquon Barkley's game-winning touchdown secured the victory. The Rose Bowl, however, ended in heartbreak with a 52-49 loss to USC. The author reflects on the team's performance, acknowledging the mistakes while praising the elite level of play. The final thoughts emphasize the nature of sports and the importance of remembering the positive aspects of a challenging season.
In conclusion, the 2016 Penn State football season was a journey of growth and resilience, and BSD's coverage captured the essence of that journey. From the early predictions to the dramatic victories and heart-wrenching losses, it was a season that left a lasting impact on the program and its fans.
