Penn State Football: 5 reasons why Nittany Lions struggle in 2017

Penn State Football: 5 reasons the Nittany Lions will struggle in 2017

PASADENA, CA - JANUARY 02: Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin looks on against the USC Trojans during the 2017 Rose Bowl Game presented by Northwestern Mutual at the Rose Bowl on January 2, 2017 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

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PASADENA, CA – JANUARY 02: Defensive back Adoree’ Jackson #2 of the USC Trojans is tackled by safety Malik Golden #6 of the Penn State Nittany Lions in the second half of the 2017 Rose Bowl Game presented by Northwestern Mutual at the Rose Bowl on January 2, 2017 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) /

5. Ayron Monroe can’t fill the hole left by Malik Golden

Penn State’s defensive backs are nearly set. Corners Grant Haley and Christian Campbell are both seniors. Free safety Marcus Allen is one of Penn State’s best. Sophomore Ayron Monroe takes over at strong safety after the Malik Golden departure.

Golden racked up 75 tackles. Monroe had 12. He’s the biggest question mark in the secondary. Just one hole against Ohio State or Michigan could cost Penn State. They let up 52 points to USC in the Rose Bowl. A team that has National Championship aspirations can’t do that.

Penn State does not live on turnovers. Anything that swings momentum helps. Unproven players don’t scare opposing offenses. Opponents know they can attack Monroe if he’s not ready.

Monroe can learn from Allen. He’ll need to adjust quickly before the Pitt game. Starting with Allen gives him the proper exposure.

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