Alabama didn't score on its first drive, and didn't take the first lead against Penn State in their clash with the Nittany Lions in Happy Valley. But Nick Saban's team still leads.

The Crimson Tide went three and out to begin their trip to State College, then answered Penn State's early field goal with an 11-play, 69-yard drive that was capped by a five-yard pass from A.J. McCarron to Michael Williams. Jeremy Shelley's extra point made it 7-3 in Alabama's favor.

'Bama's been able to move the ball through the air against Penn State, despite playing the inexperienced McCarron. He's connected on six of his nine throws for 67 yards, picking up an offense that has struggled on the ground, gaining just 13 yards on six rushing attempts.

Penn State's Robert Bolden has been the struggling young quarterback in this game, completing just three of his eight throws. He has since been shuffled out for Matt McGloin.

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