It's not surprising that top-ranked Ohio State beat Penn State.
But the way in which Ohio State won should open some eyes.
Ohio State's 37-17 victory unmasked a number of weaknesses.
Some observations from the blowout at Beaver Stadium:
* Paterno needs to quit babying QB Anthony Morelli. A careless interception in the fourth quarter caused Paterno to bench Morelli for Daryll Clark. Paterno said part of the reason he turned to Clark is because he wanted to play the Ohio native against the Buckeyes. That rationale smacks of a coach covering for a player. If Paterno feels the need to cover for a senior quarterback, is it any wonder Morelli hasn't developed into the leader this team needed?
* Penn State's defense has major issues. It has no pass rush. And its starting cornerbacks -- Justin King and Lydell Sargeant -- look mediocre at best.
* Whatever happened to A.J. Wallace? Last year's freshman sensation not only isn't making plays when a game is on the line, he's rarely even in the game when it matters. He returned a kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown late in the game.
* Penn State's lack of a play-making offensive unit will keep it out of the title hunt again next year. It's impossible to see Penn State ever beating a top-10 team if it continues to employ a defense-first, no-fear offense.


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