Penn State Alumni Shine in the NFL

Strategic Insights -

On Sunday, multiple Penn State alumni made notable contributions in their respective NFL teams. Saquon Barkley, a former Nittany Lion running back, broke out of his slumping season with a strong performance against his former team, the New York Giants. Meanwhile, tight ends Tyler Warren and Theo Johnson had decent showings for the Indianapolis Colts and New York Giants, respectively. Additionally, linebacker Odafe Oweh, recently traded from the Baltimore Ravens to the Los Angeles Chargers, recorded a sack in his team's victory over the Minnesota Vikings.

Key Takeaways:

  • Saquon Barkley, a former Penn State running back, had 150 rushing yards on 14 attempts, averaging 10.7 yards per rush, and also had a rushing and receiving touchdown in the Philadelphia Eagles' win over the New York Giants.
  • Barkley sustained a groin injury in the fourth quarter but expressed confidence in being ready for the Eagles' next game against the Green Bay Packers.
  • Tyler Warren, a Penn State tight end, had four catches for 53 yards in the Indianapolis Colts' 38-14 win over the Tennessee Titans, bringing his season yardage total to 492.
  • Warren currently leads all NFL tight ends in receiving yards and is his team's leading receiver.
  • Odafe Oweh, a recently traded linebacker from the Baltimore Ravens, had his best game with the Los Angeles Chargers, recording three tackles, including two solo, and one sack in their victory over the Minnesota Vikings.
  • Oweh had not recorded a sack since joining the Chargers but has shown improvement in his new role.
  • Theo Johnson, a former Penn State tight end, had three catches for 20 yards in the New York Giants' loss to the Eagles, despite having a bad drop.

Statistics:

  • Saquon Barkley's 10.7 yards per rush score is among the highest averages in the league this season.
  • Barkley has 519 rushing yards this season, ranking 10th in the league, and four touchdowns.
  • Tyler Warren has 492 receiving yards this season, leading all NFL tight ends.
  • Warren is also the Indianapolis Colts' leading receiver in receiving yards.
  • Odafe Oweh has three tackles, including two solo, and one sack in his first game with the Los Angeles Chargers.
  • Barkley has had a groin injury in a regular-season game for the second time this year.

Sources:

  • "Nittany Lions in the NFL Week 7" by Lexie Linderman
  • Alex Brandon | AP Photo