When third quarter ended: USC 31, Penn State 7

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

Not much changed in the third quarter -- neither team scored -- but Penn State was in a position to change fortunes as the period ended, even if it appeared unlikely to prevent a USC Rose Bowl victory before 93,293. The Nittany Lions had second and two at the USC 14-yard line to begin the fourth quarter.

Penn State failed take advantage of an opportunity early in the third quarter.

USC’s 10-play opening drive stalled after C.J. Gable’s fumble was recovered by Penn State cornerback Tony Davis at the Nittany Lions’ 42-yard line. But on a fourth and seven from the USC 36,quarterback Darryl Clark’s pass completion to wide receiver Jordan Norwood fell a yard short of a first down.

Penn State tailback Evan Royster didn’t play in the third quarter because of an injured left knee and was not expected to return, Penn State sports information director Jeff Nelson said. Nelson said the injury occurred during the first half.

-- Mark Medina