Penn State Offensive Coordinator Joe Moorhead Discusses The Rose Bowl

Following the Penn State loss to USC in the Rose Bowl, coach Moorhead answered some questions about the game and his team. These interviews took place just minutes after the game. The emotions were still raw in the locker room. While he spoke very softly, his voice was the loudest and strongest in the room. The rest of the players and coaches were very quiet, taking time to process what happened moments earlier. To his credit, coach Moorhead showed his leadership, thoughtfulness, and ability to be the person to take the tough questions for the team. It’s no wonder there are so many teams interested in hiring him as their head coach.

While he took questions following the game, something that he doesn’t always do, Moorhead was very clear in his answers. For the most part he felt that the play calls were solid and it was simply a matter of USC making plays at the right time. You have to respect the fact that he wanted to be the person to take the heat if anyone did. He put himself out there instead of allowing the players and coach Franklin to stand alone in front of the cameras as USC was on the field accepting the trophy and accolades for winning the game.

Here’s what he had to say about the final play selection.

A similar question regarding the final series of the game.

Clock management and the final two drives of the day.

When asked about his feelings about the coaching staff and why he has decided to stay at Penn State for at least next season.

Coach was asked about his team’s four consecutive touchdowns on four consecutive plays. He cracked a smile when trying to recall ever seeing such a thing. It was brief, and it was the only positive facial expression that was on display in the locker room. It was nice to see the coach, who had so much offensive success this season, allow himself to feel good about what the team did well at the Rose Bowl.