Penn State coach James Franklin is leery about Minnesota's big and talented offensive line and also its trio of receivers who are fast and athletic. 

The Lions can match up with both, however, on what looks to be a cold but otherwise calm day weather-wise in Minneapolis.

Here's how this week's PSU clash will play out.

Player(s) on the spot: 

Penn State cannot let Golden Gophers QB Tanner Morgan sit back and pick the secondary apart, because if given time, his pass catchers will get open and the host will score. The pass rush is in the spotlight, then, and it's already down a man with Antonio Shelton suspended for the week after he was ejected at Michigan State for unsportsmanlike conduct two weeks ago. PJ Mustipher and Rob Windsor must step up to fill the void and keep Morgan uncomfortable early and often. 

Don’t be surprised if: 

A big early lead for the Lions turns into a nail-bitter of a game by the fourth quarter. It just seems to be the team's M.O., at this point, and while a bye week helped limit the offensive lulls against Maryland, this Minnesota team is much better than the Terps and can exploit the Lions' weaknesses if given the opportunity too. PSU puts it away ultimately, though, to improve to 9-0.

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First down: How will the Lions enjoy their bye?

--Penn State is 8-0, just like everyone expected, and now gets a bye heading into a matchup with undefeated Minnesota.

--Greg and Bob discuss the season to date, recall key moments, and share their thoughts on the most important bye adjustments. 

Second down: Lions down a starter heading west

--Antonio Shelton was suspended one game after spitting in the direction of a Michigan State player in last weekend's win.

--Did James Franklin make the right call? And who will need to step up and replace him?

Third down: Keys to a strong November

--What must the Lions do to beat Minnesota, Rutgers, and Indiana as favorites, and maybe upset Ohio State as a road underdog?

Fourth down: Mailbag

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