Penn State Football: Blitz Stickers from Nittany Lions' win over Illinois

Penn State Football: Blitz Stickers from Nittany Lions’ win over Illinois

CHAMPAIGN, IL - SEPTEMBER 21: Jonathan Holland #18 of the Penn State Nittany Lions runs the ball after a reception as Stanley Green #7 of the Illinois Fighting Illini attempts the tackle from behind during the first quarter at Memorial Stadium on September 21, 2018 in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

Running back Mark Allen did not make the trip with the team to Champaign due to injury. This meant freshman Ricky Slade would get extended playing time spelling Miles Sanders.

Slade showed his effectiveness with 10 carries for 94 yards and two scores. His first touchdown was a 61 yarder right through the heart of the Illinois defense. He flashed his speed and showed he can be a home run hitter.

The Penn State coaches knew they had a good one when recruiting the former five star back out of Virginia. He was the best running back in the 2018 class and now we have seen what he brings to the table over the first four weeks. Slade has 147 yards on 25 carries and four touchdowns. While he has fumbled the ball a couple times, he should continue to improve. The experience now will pay off in a couple years as he becomes the next go-to guy in the Penn State backfield.

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