Lions and Dawgs set to go in the TaxSlayer Bowl
Photo by Jason Plotkin, York Daily Record
Penn State QB Christian Hackenberg runs through plays during the team’s last practice at Fernandina Beach High School in Fernandina Beach, FL on Thursday, Dec. 31, 2015.
(Jacksonville, FL) — The Penn State Nittany Lions will face the Georgia Bulldogs in today’s TaxSlayer Bowl in Jacksonville, Florida.Â
It’s the 5th appearance for the Lions in the former Gator Bowl, with the last time coming in 1976 and a loss to Notre Dame.
Penn State finished the season at 7-5 and appears to be healthy again following the layoff, especially at defensive end where Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year Carl Nassib is expected to go.
It could also be the final game for junior quarterback Christian Hackenberg,  who could soon announce his intentions for the NFL draft. During his time under center Hackenberg has managed to break most of Penn State’s passing records, including those for completions, passing yards and touchdowns.
Georgia posted a 9-3 record overall this season, 5-3 in the SEC, and they seem very similar to Penn State. The Bulldogs have relied on a strong defense while being frustratingly inconsistent on offense.
The big question for Georgia may be the morale of the players. Head coach Mark Richt was fired after the regular season and was immediately picked up by Miami. Several assistants have also either been let go or will make the bowl game their last at Georgia.
The two teams have met only once before. Penn State defeated Georgia 27-23 in the 1983 Sugar Bowl to claim their first National Championship.
Kickoff for today’s TaxSlayer Bowl is at noon.
A collection of interviews, photos, and music videos, featuring local musicians who have stopped by the WITF performance studio to share a little discussion and sound. Produced by WITF’s Joe Ulrich.
