JoePa and his players are conditioned not to look ahead, but that doesn’t mean we can’t. Through two games, Penn State’s position in the race for the Big Ten title continues to improve.

The unbeaten Nittany Lions went into the season with one difficult game away from Beaver Stadium on the schedule. But now that Michigan is 0-2 and in complete disarray, the Sept. 22 clash with the Wolverines doesn’t look so insurmountable anymore. In addition, Penn State is getting Michigan at an opportune time -- in the conference opener. The Wolverines don’t have much time between now and then to get it together.

And don't forget that all of the other legitimate contenders appear to have much more difficult road challenges: Ohio State has to play at PSU and Michigan; Wisconsin is at PSU and OSU; Iowa is at PSU and Wisconsin; and Michigan plays at Wisconsin and Michigan State in a heated rivalry clash.

It’s not inconceivable that the Lions will be able to run the table at home (like they did in 2005). We all know that Happy Valley has become one of the toughest places to play, with the craziest student section anywhere. If that happens, this squad may be able to weather one road loss and still capture at least a share of the crown. – NEIL GEOGHEGAN