Penn State's defensive effort in the team's 13-3 win against the Iowa on Saturday at Beaver Stadium was solid across the board, but one young linebacker in particular made a statement with his play against the Hawkeyes.
Sophomore Khairi Fortt broke through Iowa's blockers for 1.5 sacks, the half sack coming in tandem with Eric Latimore on the Hawkeyes' final drive. He also came up with five total tackles on the afternoon, good for third among the linebacking corps.
After the game, though, Fortt wasn't looking at final statistics. He was just focused on how much fun he had helping his team shut down its nemesis, Iowa.
"It was really fun today," Fortt said. "It might be the best game I've ever had, fun-wise. Our whole defense united and we played as one out there. We all got each other hyped and it just feels like heaven out there with another guy, you don't even have to say anything to him, you just look in his eyes and you know he's got your back."
Fortt has been a versatile option for defensive coordinator Tom Bradley all season, working in the middle, weak, and strong side linebacker spots. In many ways, he's worked himself into the fourth linebacker in Penn State's rotation thanks to his ability to play all over the field. Fortt is happy to help however he can.
"I just play wherever they need me," Fortt said. "I'm fine with it and I'm going to keep working hard."