Penn State Nittany Lions vs Ohio State Buckeyes: How to watch, start time, betting line and predictions
PENN STATE OUTLOOK
James Franklin's group passed a big test in their beatdown of Michigan last week, but their reward for that is one that's their most challenging: Ohio State. Last year, Penn State stunned the Buckeyes at home, but now have to travel to the 'Shoe this year. We've been hearing all year that Saquon Barkley is going to need some help because of the attention he receives, but that couldn't be more true this week. Urban Meyer and his coaching staff will try to find a way to stop the Heisman frontrunner from gashing them like he did the Wolverines. Trace McSorley has proven that he can help his backfield partner, and those two scored all six of Penn State's touchdowns last week.
What has been the biggest surprise for Franklin is the play of his defense. Penn State now boasts a Top 10 defense, and you wouldn't be wrong for doubting them after the departure of Bob Shoop. Give new defensive coordinators Brent Pry and Tim Banks credit for that success, because the defensive improvement has more to do with Penn State's ranking than people realize. Players like Jason Cabinda and Marcus Allen have also stepped up into major roles this year to lead that defense. It's scary to think that this Penn State team might be more complete than their foe on Saturday.
OHIO STATE OUTLOOK
We haven't heard much from the Buckeyes since their loss to Oklahoma, but you can bet their looking to say "hey, remember us?" to college football this week. Add an opportunity to get revenge from last year's stunning upset, and Urban Meyer's team will be locked in. Their quest for revenge starts with the defense.
Depth is one thing that the Buckeye's defense certainly doesn't lack, as 20 players have double digit tackles this year. With so many options at each position, the problem becomes getting everyone enough playing time. Coming into the season, the defensive line figured to be one of those positions where there weren't enough reps and a rotation would be in place. One player who wasn't a projected starter is certainly doing his part to stay in the game longer. Nick Bosa, brother of former Buckeye great Joey, already has 10 tackles for loss and four sacks. We knew that he might be the best amongst this group, but he's finally showing it on the field. Bosa's play will be a key factor in stopping the best running back this team will see all season in Barkley. If the defense can't get it done, they may need to rely on the offense to help them out.
If you asked fans how many interceptions J.T. Barrett might have after seven games of play, the answer might equal that number of games. You would be wrong. For all of the criticism that Barrett has received as a passer, his one interception on the year has certainly hushed those people for now. With the offense needing to find playmakers, Barrett was relied on early in the season. The result of that wasn't good against Oklahoma, but he's thrived in the other six games. If players like J.K. Dobbins and Parris Campbell can step up in another matchup against the #2 team in the nation, Ohio State will be back in the playoff conversation.
PREDICTION
Whether you think Ohio State deserves to be in the Top 10 or not, they're still a talented team. I understand that they've yet to beat anyone of worth, but they get an opportunity to prove themselves this weekend. So ignore the fact that voters aren't taking this year's results into consideration when ranking the Buckeyes this high, because they're very capable of winning this game. Penn State better be ready for a dog fight.
My pick: UPSET SPECIAL: Penn State 28 Ohio State 24
