This week marks the halfway point in the regular season, and although it might be sputtering a bit, Penn State football got some positive reinforcement yesterday — ESPN’s Big Ten staff included three Nittany Lions in its midseason All-Big Ten team.

Wide receiver DaeSean Hamilton, defensive tackle Anthony Zettel, and linebacker Mike Hull were recognized for their on-field efforts during the past six weeks.

Hamilton has been the driving force for the offense so far. He leads the team in receptions (43) and receiving yards (560), while leading the Big Ten in receptions per game (7.2) and placing second in receiving yards per game (93.3).

Senior captain Mike Hull has recorded 64 tackles on the year — 40 of which are solo, good for second in the conference. Zettel, meanwhile, has recorded 19 tackles thus far, seven of which have been for a loss. That mark is seventh in the conference.

Although ESPN didn’t include any tight ends on its list, Jesse James received mention and praise. Earlier this week, James was named to the midseason John Mackey Award watch list. James has caught 18 passes for 203 yards and two touchdowns in the early going.

Michigan State had the most players included on the list with five. Penn State, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin all had three players listed. And if you want some vindication after this past Saturday, Michigan had none.