Ohio State vs. Penn State: A Clash of Titans in Week 10 College Football
As the leaves turn and the chill of November sets in, college football fans are gearing up for one of the most anticipated matchups of the season. This Saturday, November 2, the #4 Ohio State Buckeyes (6-1, 3-1 Big Ten) will travel to University Park, PA, to face off against the #3 Penn State Nittany Lions (7-0, 4-0 Big Ten) in a game that promises to have significant implications for the College Football Playoff race. With Ohio State entering as a 4-point road favorite, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
The Injury Cloud Over Penn State
The biggest storyline heading into this matchup is the status of Penn State’s star quarterback, Drew Allar. After suffering a knee injury in the first half of last week’s game against Wisconsin, Allar did not return for the second half, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering about his availability for this crucial contest. Allar has been a standout performer this season, throwing for 1,640 yards and 12 touchdowns, and his absence would be a significant blow to the Nittany Lions’ offense.
In Allar’s absence, sophomore Beau Pribula stepped up admirably, leading Penn State to a comeback victory over Wisconsin. Pribula’s performance was commendable, as he orchestrated two touchdown drives to secure the win. However, the challenge he faces against Ohio State’s elite defense is monumental. With no collegiate starts under his belt, the pressure on Pribula will be immense if Allar is unable to play.
Ohio State’s Defensive Dominance
Ohio State enters this game with one of the most formidable defenses in the nation, allowing just 11.9 points per game. The Buckeyes have consistently demonstrated their ability to stifle opposing offenses, ranking in the top nine against both the run and the pass. This defensive prowess will be crucial against a Penn State team that thrives on a balanced offensive attack.
Despite narrowly escaping an upset against Nebraska last week, Ohio State’s defense managed to hold firm when it mattered most, securing a game-sealing interception in the final moments. The Buckeyes’ offense, while not as explosive as in previous seasons, still boasts playmakers like freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who has already tied the record for the most touchdown receptions by a Buckeye in their first year.
Betting Odds and Predictions
As the game approaches, the betting lines reflect the uncertainty surrounding Allar’s status. Ohio State opened as a 3-point favorite, but early betting action quickly moved the line to -4. The total for the game has remained steady at 47.5 points, although it could shift depending on Allar’s availability.
Current Odds
| Teams | Spread | Moneyline | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio State Buckeyes | -4 (-110) | -192 | O 47.5 (-110) |
| Penn State Nittany Lions | +4 (-110) | +160 | U 47.5 (-110) |
If Allar is ruled out, expect the line to shift further in favor of Ohio State, as the Buckeyes would be facing a backup quarterback with limited experience against one of the toughest defenses in college football.
Historical Context
History is on Ohio State’s side as they have won seven consecutive matchups against Penn State, dating back to 2017. In fact, the Buckeyes have claimed victory in 11 of the last 12 meetings overall. Under head coach James Franklin, Penn State has struggled against Ohio State, with only one win in ten attempts, and most losses have come by a margin of at least eight points.
Last 5 Matchups
| Date | Result |
|---|---|
| Oct. 21, 2023 | OSU 20-12 |
| Oct. 29, 2022 | OSU 44-31 |
| Oct. 30, 2021 | OSU 33-24 |
| Oct. 31, 2020 | OSU 38-25 |
| Nov. 23, 2019 | OSU 28-17 |
The Path Forward
For Ohio State, a victory over Penn State, especially if Allar is sidelined, would bolster their Big Ten title hopes and enhance their standing in the College Football Playoff race. However, a win without facing a fully healthy Allar may come with an asterisk, as the Buckeyes are still seeking a signature win this season.
On the other hand, Penn State’s defense is among the best in the nation, and if Pribula can manage the game effectively, the Nittany Lions could still pull off an upset. The matchup promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams vying for supremacy in the Big Ten.
As kickoff approaches, fans and bettors alike will be watching closely to see how the injury situation unfolds and how it impacts this pivotal showdown in college football.