STATE COLLEGE — The scores of Penn State's two victories this season make the Nittany Lions look like an offensive juggernaut.

Florida International fell 59-0. Notre Dame got shellacked Saturday, 31-10.

Yet despite the lopsided scores, the offense has had issues that could spoil dreams of a Big Ten title if the Nittany Lions (2-0) don't develop more consistency.

The rushing attack in each game hasn't taken off until after halftime. Senior quarterback Anthony Morelli mixed in some nice throws with questionable decisions in the win over the Irish.

"We just got to be ready for whatever defenses throw at us," said receiver Jordan Norwood.

Penn State's own defense has been as solid as a blue-and-white brick wall. The "D" hasn't allowed a touchdown in limiting opponents to just 129 yards per game.

Penn State moved up two spots to No. 12 on Sunday in the latest AP Top 25 poll.

Athleticism overwhelmed Florida International on both sides of the ball. The defense bowled over Irish blockers and freshman quarterback Jimmy Clausen for six sacks, and limited the Notre Dame running game to zero net yards.

Penn State's solid defense gives the offense a cushion.

"That is comforting and it has been that way for the past four or five years," said Norwood, who caught a 10-yard TD pass Saturday from Morelli. "That is something that we will have for the rest of the season and hopefully we will be able to rely on them a little bit when we are not producing as much on offense."

Morelli underthrew a long pass attempt to Derrick Williams that was picked off by Darrin Walls in the first quarter and returned 73 yards for Notre Dame's only touchdown.

Morelli was sacked twice on plays in which it appeared he could throw the ball away.