Penn State's victory in Dublin was much more than just another win. It was the dawning of a new era, and a statement to the nation that the Nittany Lions are still relevant.
Kicker Sam Ficken and receiver DaeSean Hamilton earned Big Ten Player of the Week Honors following career performances against Central Florida in Dublin, Ireland.
It didn't take long for Christian Hackenberg to make a statement this year. The true sophomore threw his way into the record books, setting the Penn State single game passing yards with 454, breaking Zach Mills' record of 399 set against Iowa in 2002.
On Saturday morning, Sam Ficken confidently drilled four field goals on four attempts (and two extra points) to carried Penn State to 26-24 victory.
The James Franklin Era is off with a bang. Thanks to the right foot of kicker Sam Ficken, the Nittany Lions leave Dublin with a victory over UCF and start off the season 1-0.
Franklin may be able to breathe a little easier after Saturday's 26-24 thrilling victory over Central Florida which featured a breakout performance by one receiver, and a career day by a junior receiver now taking on a larger role.