Saturday, October 31. It was Halloween night. Students across Penn State’s campus had high energy, as they watched the Nittany Lions take on the Buckeyes. However, much to their dismay, the Nittany Lions fell short once again. The Nittany Lions have opened up their season 0-4 for the first time since 2012. 

This season has been quite different from any other, as Penn State, on google the most boisterous schools in the nation, has had limited in person attendance at their games due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This has not stopped people from partying and tailgating, considering the number of positive cases at the university. 

Penn State faced Ohio State for their second game of the season, securing home field advantage. It came after a heartbreaking loss in overtime to Indiana in week one, and due to what some would call a controversial call on the field. After taking a blow by losing to the underdog, it was crucial Penn State come out strong against their rival, but they ended up taking a brutal loss. 

Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields proved to be vital in this win, as he completed 28 out of 34 passes, securing four touchdowns, and completing 318 passing yards for the team. But Penn State did not give up so easily, they came out hard in the second half scoring 19 points. Penn State quarterback Sean Clifford completed 18 of 30 passes, adding to the final with three touchdowns. Penn State receiver Jahan Dotson accounted for seven receptions, making up for three touchdowns, and 133 yards. 

So what’s next for Penn State? As of press time, they take on Iowa next week, and Michigan the following. Every game they have played so far, with the exception of the Ohio State game, the Nittany Lions have been favored to win. Yet, they have taken the loss each game. Some in a close margin, and others in a blow out. Since October 31, Penn State has lost 35-19 to Maryland, and 30-23 to Nebraska. With hopes of the playoffs crushed, everyone is just going to have to watch on November 21 and see what the rest of the season has in store for the Nittany Lions.