SMU faced a crucial drive after a successful stop on fourth down against Penn State. Quarterback Kevin Jennings aimed to regain his rhythm amidst escalating crowd noise. Despite a holding penalty, Jennings managed to complete two passes, securing a first down as the first quarter concluded.
The second quarter commenced with Guns ‘n Roses’ “Welcome to the Jungle” blaring, firing up the Penn State defense. A stout run defense by Penn State on first down was followed by a breakthrough play by Roderick Daniels Jr., who evaded tackles and sprinted 20 yards down the sideline, positioning the ball in Penn State territory.
Jennings appeared to find his stride, executing a series of easy throws to establish a better rhythm. However, a significant play by Penn State's Cam Miller pushed the Mustangs back six yards on a pass to the left flat. Subsequently, facing a challenging third and long situation, Jennings had to call a timeout due to communication issues with his in-helmet headset, prompting a jubilant reaction from the crowd.
As the timeout concluded, the crowd erupted in deafening cheers as Jennings prepared to take the snap. Despite evading the pass rush, Jennings' throw missed its mark, landing directly in the hands of Penn State's Tony Rojas. Rojas capitalized on the interception, weaving through the Mustangs' defense and sprinting untouched into the end zone, extending Penn State's lead by two touchdowns, both resulting from pick-sixes.
