Opponent Press Conference Notes - Penn State (Paterno)
After doing just one of these (MSU), took a break because work/family/school/life in general got in the way. But, seeing how this is kind of a big game, here are the notes on JoePa's press conference. No mention of brains, sadly.
http://www.gopsusports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/102009aae.html
On Forcier: Impressed by what Forcier has accomplished thus far as a freshman, although PSU didn't recruit him (no interest in the Lions). Says Forcier reminds him of Tebow with qualities like leadership and confidence, but with more finesse than power.
On injuries: Ako Poti will start at RT. Backup Nerraw McCormack, is "not 100%" this week.
Stephfon Green (RB) has a hurt ankle. Says it's "loose" and that he's a "maybe" for Saturday. Says not having Green would be a "big loss." Will probably go with Brandon Beachum and maybe Brent Carter to spell Royster.
On the M defense: Aggressive, a lot of different blitzes, but that has allowed opportunities for big plays.
On the M offense: Knows they have to stay disciplined when facing Michigan and all their different looks/formations. Forcier is tough because he "moves around a lot." Also mentions that they "stuck the other kid in there" against Iowa who "made the one mistake when he overthrew the kid..." Tough to prepare for two quarterbacks, but it's a fact of life. Robinson can really run, Forcier is more of a throw-first guy who can scramble and is "clever, very, very clever." But both kids can throw.
On the rivalry: There's a problem if "extra motivation" is needed in a game of this importance. Michigan has been playing well and been in every ball game, so need to practice well and play hard.
Doesn't think Michigan is a tough place to play. Cites some key plays from over the years, like the Tony Johnson out-of-bounds call (so THIS is where the fanbase gets it from!) and kicking to Breaston. Goes on to say that Ohio State, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan are all tough places to play.
On the depth chart: Not sure which CB will start, AJ Wallace or Knowledge Timmons. Wallace played well last week against Minnesota covering Decker.
Now some random, non-game related items:
On being offered the Michigan job in 1968: Direct quote: "Don Canahm and I met...I think it was after the '68 season in Pittsburgh and we talked and he offered me the job when they hired Bo Schembechler. And once a year Don used to write me a letter and say, "Thanks!" "
On kids enrolling early: Doesn't like the practice and thinks it should be banned. Thinks kids should enjoy senior year. Does think it has been helpful to some programs.
On kids staying out of trouble: Some guy asked about kids staying out of trouble and the UConn CB who was stabbed. Says it was tragic, but that football players are no different than any other kids. Sometimes they make bad decisions. Doesn't remember knives from back in his day, just "guys making jack asses out of themselves."
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