Ohio State vs. Penn State: A High-Stakes Showdown in Week 10
As the college football season reaches its climax, the anticipation builds for one of the most electrifying matchups of the year: #4 Ohio State (6-1, 3-1 Big Ten) visits #3 Penn State (7-0, 4-0 Big Ten) on Saturday, November 2. With both teams vying for supremacy in the Big Ten, this clash promises to be a thrilling contest. However, the stakes have been raised even higher with the uncertainty surrounding Penn State’s star quarterback, Drew Allar, who is nursing a knee injury.
The Odds: Buckeyes as Favorites
In the lead-up to this pivotal matchup, Ohio State has been established as a 4-point road favorite. The line opened at 3 points but quickly shifted as bettors rallied behind the Buckeyes, pushing it to -4. The total for the game has remained steady at 47.5 points, although this could change depending on Allar’s availability. Kickoff is set for noon ET at Beaver Stadium, with Fox providing coverage.
Current Betting Lines
| 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) |
Drew Allar’s Injury: A Game-Changer?
The biggest storyline heading into this matchup is the status of Drew Allar. The talented sophomore quarterback left last week’s game against Wisconsin with a knee injury, and his absence could significantly impact Penn State’s chances. Allar had been enjoying a stellar season, throwing for 1,640 yards and 12 touchdowns, and was considered a longshot for the Heisman Trophy.
In his absence, sophomore Beau Pribula stepped up admirably, leading a comeback against the Badgers and throwing for two touchdowns. However, Pribula has no collegiate starts under his belt, and facing Ohio State’s formidable defense will be a monumental challenge. The Buckeyes boast the top-rated defense in the nation, allowing just 11.9 points per game, making it crucial for Penn State to have their starting quarterback available.
Ohio State’s Recent Performance
Ohio State is coming off a narrow victory against Nebraska, where they escaped with a win thanks to a late-game interception. The Buckeyes struggled offensively, managing only 64 rushing yards and relying heavily on quarterback Will Howard, who threw for 221 yards and three touchdowns. Despite the shaky performance, Ohio State remains a powerhouse, and a win against Penn State would solidify their position in the College Football Playoff race.
Key Players to Watch
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Jeremiah Smith: The freshman wide receiver has been a standout for the Buckeyes, tying the record for the most touchdown receptions by a freshman in Ohio State history. His ability to stretch the field will be crucial, especially if the Nittany Lions are forced to focus on stopping the run.
- Beau Pribula: If Allar is unable to play, all eyes will be on Pribula. His performance against Wisconsin showed promise, but he will need to elevate his game significantly against a top-tier defense.
Historical Context: Buckeyes Dominate Recent Matchups
History is not on Penn State’s side as they prepare for this showdown. Ohio State has won seven consecutive meetings dating back to 2017, with only one of those victories coming by fewer than eight points. Under head coach James Franklin, the Nittany Lions have struggled against the Buckeyes, winning just once in ten attempts.
Last Five 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 |
Early Prediction: Buckeyes to Cover the Spread
Given the current circumstances, Ohio State appears to be the safer bet. If Allar is ruled out, the line could shift further in the Buckeyes’ favor, and even if he plays, he may not be at full strength. Ohio State’s superior metrics on both offense and defense suggest they are the more talented team, making them the likely choice to cover the spread.
For those looking to place a wager, now is the time to act. The uncertainty surrounding Allar’s injury could lead to further adjustments in the betting line, making Ohio State -4 a compelling option.
Final Thoughts
As the countdown to kickoff continues, fans and bettors alike are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of college football’s elite programs. With playoff implications on the line and a storied rivalry at stake, this matchup is sure to deliver excitement and drama.