Season opener between West Virginia, No. 8 Penn State suspended by severe weather

Justin Guerriero
Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024 2:23 p.m. | Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024 2:23 p.m.

Go Ad-Free Today!

Fans clear the stands of Milan Puskar Stadium during a weather delay in the first half of game between Penn State and West Virginia on Saturday in Morgantown, W.Va.

AP

West Virginia quarterback Garrett Greene fumbles as he is defended by Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter (11) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Morgantown, W.Va., Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024.

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — With less than five minutes left in halftime before West Virginia and No. 8 Penn State were set to resume their 2024 season-opener, severe weather around Milan Puskar Stadium prompted an evacuation of fans and a suspension of the contest.

The game cannot resume until 30 minutes after lightning ceases.

Penn State built a 20-6 lead at the halfway point before the weather delay, riding three touchdown passes from quarterback Drew Allar.

Receiver Harrison Wallace led both teams with 117 yards on five catches, along with a pair of touchdowns.

The game was scoreless after the first quarter but in the second, Penn State’s offense came alive, producing three touchdowns.

By comparison, West Virginia was held out of the end zone, with several promising drives stalling in Penn State territory.

Mountaineers kicker Michael Hayes hit field goals from 38 and 39 yards to put his team on the board.

The first quarter featured a combined four fumbles, three by West Virginia.

Mountaineers tailbacks Jahiem White and CJ Donaldson combined for 16 carries and 73 yards in the first half, while quarterback Garrett Greene was 10 for 18 with 89 yards.

Last year, Penn State hosted West Virginia in State College to begin the 2023 campaign, with the Nittany Lions winning, 38-15.