Nittany Lions in the NFL: Week 4
In an exciting and controversial Week 3 of the NFL season, former Nittany Lions made impacts in all three phases of the game.
Of the 26 Penn State football (and one lacrosse) products currently in the NFL, 19 saw playing time this past week, and several put in great performances for their respective teams.
Chris Godwin caught the first three receptions of his NFL career Sunday in the Buccaneers’ loss to the Vikings. Godwin totaled 44 receiving yards and averaged 14.7 yards per catch, which was second-most on the team, trailing only DeSean Jackson. Look for Godwin to have opportunities in single coverage next week versus the New York Giants, as he looks for his first NFL touchdown.
Robbie Gould has been one of the 49ers most consistent players this season, and yes, he is a kicker. But let’s show kickers some love too. Gould was 2-2 on field goals and 3-4 on extra points against the Rams on Thursday night, as the 49ers comeback ultimately fell short. At 34 years young, Gould is a perfect 6-6 on field goals for the season, and should be one of the better kickers in the league once again.
Chris Hogan, the aforementioned lacrosse player, was the best Penn State alum on the field in Week 3. Hogan caught four passes for 68 yards and two touchdowns as the Patriots eked out a win over the Texans. Hogan was highlighted during the game by CBS analyst Dan Fouts for his fine-tuned route running, as Hogan was wide open on both of his touchdown receptions. In Week 4, watch for Hogan to be a difference maker as the Patriots host the Panthers, who boast the league’s third-best passing defense.
Mike Hull continued to impress for the Miami Dolphins, despite a 20-6 loss to the New York Jets. Hull racked up seven tackles, which was tied for third-most on the team, and had a fumble recovery. Going into Week 4, Hull has a team-high 17 tackles, and seems to be the Dolphins’ best linebacker so far in just his second NFL season.
Sean Lee had a team high eight tackles for the Cowboys in their Monday Night Football victory over the Cardinals, including one tackle for loss. Lee is the quarterback of the Cowboys defense and looks to be continuing his All-Pro play from a season ago. Going into Week 4, Lee is 12th in the league with 25 tackles.
Carl Nassib racked up four tackles and a pass break-up for the Browns in a narrow loss to the Colts. With first overall pick Myles Garrett out with a high ankle sprain, second year Nassib has seen more playing time for Cleveland, and looks to make a bigger impact in Week 4 against a vulnerable Cincinnati offensive line.
Paul Posluszny and the Jaguars defense dominated the Ravens in a 44-7 victory across the pond in London on Sunday. Posluszny made three tackles and broke up a pass as Jacksonville got off to their first 2-1 start since 2007, which was Posluszny’s first year in the league.
Alex Loughin is a freshman majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, e-mail arl5607@psu.edu.
