THIS IS THE YEAR

Michigan has been a total nuisance to Penn State for over a decade now. The Nittany Lions have had numerous opportunities within the past 9 meetings to win, but as we all know too well, that just hasn't happened. For the Penn State players, the past events might not matter in their preparation for Saturdays showdown, but for Penn State fans, it's a whole different story. The fans have been there to experience all of these losses, and like a pesky gnat buzzing around your head, Michigan just won't go away. Taking a look at the numbers so far this season, you have to believe that if there ever was a time to do it, this has to be Penn State's year to finally beat Michigan.

Michigan: 100th in the country in total offense at 18.8 ppg
Penn State: 7th in the country in total offense at 45.3 ppg

Michigan: 54th in total defense allowing 344 ypg
Penn State: 8th in total defense allowing 259 ypg

Michigan: 116th in 3rd down percentage at an astounding 27.2%
Penn State: 8th in 3rd down percentage at 52.3%

Michigan: 114th in turnover ratio at -1.33
Penn State: 18th in turnover ratio at +1.14

By the way, for those of you who could have imagined this, but haven't actually saw the statistic, Derrick Williams leads the nation in kick returns with an amazing 38.3 yards per return. His ability to break out the big play has put seperation between Penn State and their oppenents at crucial moments in several games this year. As Joe Paterno has mentioned a few times, Dick Anderson and Bill Kenney deserve a whole lot of credit for their work with the special teams.

As the statistics point out, if Penn State doesn't beat Michigan this year, it will not be a result of not having the better team. The Nittany Lions have quite possibly the best offensive line unit in the country, playmakers at all offensive positions, and a Tom Bradley led defensive that straight up shuts you down. This could be the best all around team that Penn State has ever had. That is a bold statement, and only time will tell whether it is right or wrong.