It wasn't pretty. It wasn't solid. But the final test for Penn State in the 2005 regular season came against a potent offense that the Michigan State Spartans boasted. Penn State's offense had a difficult time finding it's typical traction in this game, but made the best of a few gift-wrapped opportunities. The Michigan State special teams gave the Blue and White a couple of short fields to capitalize on. The superb areal defense from cornerback Alan Zemaitis, along with QB pressure from Matthew Rice, Jay Alford and company, all game kept the Spartans at bay just long enough to pull this one out, on the road.
Penn State's Top Performers:
Alan Zemaitis: 7 Tackles, 3 Interceptions, 4 Passes Defended
Dan Connor: 14 Tackles, 1.5 TFLs
Michael Robinson: 10 of 20, 105 yards, TD .. 20 carries, 89 yards, TD
The Nittany Lions wrapped up the 2005 regular season with an unforseen 10-1 record, which allowed them to claim a share of the Big Ten title, and a chance to play in the BCS Championship Series of bowl games. Michigan State ended with a 5-6 record and would miss an opportunity to play in the bowl season.