Penn State Football: 3 takeaways from blowout win over Maryland

PISCATAWAY, NJ - NOVEMBER 17: Head coach James Franklin of the Penn State Nittany Lions runs onto the field with his team before taking on the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at HighPoint.com Stadium on November 17, 2018 in Piscataway, New Jersey. (Photo by Corey Perrine/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

2. The Sean Clifford show

Sean Clifford had played fairly well through three games, but needed to adjust some things after a close win over Pitt. This was his first road test. After tonight, Clifford certainly passed the test with an A plus.

Clifford set a Penn State record in the first half with 287 passing yards, breaking a record Trace McSorley broke in the 2017 season. He would finish his night 26 for 31 for 398 yards and three touchdowns. He would also carry the ball seven times for 54 yards and opened the scoring with a touchdown run. The only mistake on the night was throwing his first career interception, but the game was already 28-0 at that point.

Clifford was instrumental in Penn State completely dominating Maryland. This is the third time this season Clifford has exceeded over 300 yards. He also has 10 total touchdowns on the year.

Many pundits thought there would be a drop off from McSorley leaving to the NFL. Clifford has proved there is no drop off. As Penn State’s schedule gets tougher, he will be more tested. However he looks more than ready for the challenge.

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