Penn State in the NFL: Week 7

Another week, another list of surprising victories across the NFL. Several former Penn Staters contributed heavily to their respective teams’ efforts.

Week seven was a chance to turn things around — here’s how the past Nittany Lions did in the present

Mike Gesicki, TE, New England Patriots

Gesicki celebrated National Tight Ends Day with his first touchdown of the season against the Buffalo Bills.

The Patriots, after losing their previous three games, were able to right some wrongs in the 29-25 upset victory. And Gesicki’s score couldn’t have come at a better time.

Twelve seconds were on the clock, and New England trailed by three as Mac Jones and the offense lined up at the one-yard line. The tight end beat his blocker, created enough separation and caught the pass at the back of the endzone.

While he only had one additional reception and just five yards in the game, that touchdown was the difference maker and elevated the Patriots to 2-5 on the year.

Saquon Barkley, RB, New York Giants

Barkley might have made his return to the gridiron last week, but against the Commanders, his impact roared through Metlife Stadium.

The Giants beat their NFC East rival 14-7, with Tyrod Taylor commanding the offense. New York has struggled on offense all season and scored its first home touchdowns of the entire year in the effort.

The running back carved up 77 yards on the ground and 41 through the air.

With nine minutes left in the second quarter, Barkley caught a short pass from Taylor and broke away from several defenders before jumping into the endzone.

New York wouldn’t score again for the rest of the game, but it was able to hold Washington to just seven points. Next week, the Giants face their stadium counterpart: the New York Jets.

Joey Porter Jr., CB, Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers returned to action against the Rams and left LA with a 24-17 win.

Now at 4-2, Pittsburgh is in the middle of the pack in the AFC North, with the Ravens (5-2) at the top and the Bengals at .500.

In the win, Porter Jr. recorded three tackles and a pass defended, his third of the year. The rookie has continued to be a strong assist to the Steelers’ secondary and is starting to find a bigger role in their defensive scheme.

Amanda Vogt is a sophomore majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email amandaevogt@gmail.com.