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Penn State Vs. Virginia 2012: Nittany Lions Lose, 17-16

For the first time since 2001, the Penn State Nittany Lions have started their season at 0-2 with a loss to Virginia on Saturday, 17-16.

A 12-play, 86-yard touchdown drive late in the fourth quarter gave UVA the lead, which Penn State had held for most of the game.

Michael Rocco found Jake McGee for a 6-yard touchdown pass, and the point after gave the Cavaliers a 17-16 lead. Penn State quarterback Matt McGloin battled a banged-up elbow from being hit on consecutive drives in the first half.

McGloin made his return on in the third quarter and led the Nittany Lions to another touchdown drive in the fourth quarter. But the 12-play drive that ended with McGee in the end zone gave Virginia its lead.

It was a horrible day for place kicker Sam Ficken, who replaced one of Penn State's transfers over the summer, Anthony Fera. Ficken had multiple chances to add points for the Nittany Lions, but missed four of his five field goal attempts.

For more on Penn State, head over to Black Shoe Diaries. For Virginia, check out Streaking the Lawn.

Photographs by dizfunk used in background montage under Creative Commons. Thank you.