Cael Sanderson has maintained that Penn State Wrestling’s focus remains on improving amid his team’s dominance on the circuit. The Nittany Lions now have six wrestlers ranked No. 1 in their respective weight categories.
Luke Lilledahl (125 pounds), Shayne Van Ness (149 pounds), Mitchell Mesenbrink (165 pounds), Levi Haines (174 pounds), Rocco Welsh (184 pounds), and Josh Barr (197 pounds) are all ranked No. 1 at the moment.
Cael Sanderson: Penn State Wrestlers Not Focused on Rankings
Sanderson was asked about having six top-ranked wrestlers in his team and what sets them apart from other groups. In typical fashion, he made it clear that they pay no attention to the rankings and are instead focused on just getting better every day.
“We have a strong team. Obviously, a lot of good kids. We don’t really focus or worry, or think too much about rankings. It’s just getting [through] the same process of getting better every day and every competition, just remain grateful to the opportunities we have. And all of the other things, we will take care of themselves,” Sanderson said during his press conference on the back of the Nittany Lions’ win over Indiana.
Penn State Wrestling has been dominating proceedings this season, with an overall record of 11-0 (5-0 in the Big Ten Conference).
Penn State Wrestling’s Recent Results and Schedule
Penn State Wrestling enjoyed yet another dominant weekend in the Big Ten Conference, recording two big shutouts. The Nittany Lions thumped Indiana 48-0 on Friday, before cruising to a 51-0 victory against Maryland on the road the next day.
All 10 Penn State wrestlers recorded bonus points, with the likes of Lilledahl, Van Ness, and Mesenbrink all impressing.
Sanderson’s side now has four shutouts in its last five matches, and this run is showing no signs of stopping anytime soon.
When asked about how his team continues to get better during the same press conference, Sanderson said, “We just enjoy competing, and each individual is just working on what they do, and getting better each match. So every time we step out there, it’s an opportunity to compete and do something you love. Also, just continue to get better.”
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Next up for Penn State Wrestling is a home meet against the Nebraska Huskers on Friday. This event will also be a BJC Dual, and more than 10,000 fans are expected to attend. Fans can also watch the live coverage on the B1G+ streaming service.
Further meets against Michigan, Ohio State, and Princeton also await the Nittany Lions this month before the attention turns to the Big Ten Championships and NCAA Wrestling Championships in March.
