Penn State football's on-field leader this season has been senior linebacker Michael Mauti. Mauti left Penn State's 45-22 victory over Indiana on Saturday in the first quarter after injuring his left knee and perhaps tearing his ACL. The senior had recovered from two previous ACL injuries in his career and his teammates paid tribute to him after the game.

Offensive guard John Urschel said about Mauti

"The way he's kept this team together through the sanctions, through all this," Urschel said. "Honestly, I think he's done more than any football player could be asked as a leader."

Mike Hull, who had to take Mauti's spot on the field after the injury, noted that the senior helped all the players he could. Penn State's defensive coordinator Ted Roof reportedly had tears in his eyes when he spoke about Mauti after the game.

Mauti's impact on the field was crucial to the success of the Nittany Lions this season. He is second on the team in tackles (95), first in interceptions (3) and tied for first in forced fumbles (3).