It is time once again for the staff of Nittany Lions Wire to lay our reputations on the line and share our final score predictions with you. Penn State is heading into a massive Orange Bowl against Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff semifinal. For the first time this playoff, Penn State is taking on the role of the underdog, and the Nittany Lions have the longest odds to win the national championship. So is Penn State playing with house money right now? Some would suggest so.
But what does our staff think about this matchup in particular? We share our thoughts and final score predictions below.
Charlie: Both teams are so similar yet one just feels more like a national championship caliber team than the other. The Fighting Irish might not have the explosive downfield passing attack, but they pound the rock. Penn State’s two losses came when they allowed more than 121 yards and were only able to beat USC (who ran for 189) in overtime. Notre Dame has only been held to less than 154 yards twice. If Penn State does that, they will play for the national championship.
This game could go either way, but I think the Irish defense will put on a show and create at least one game changing play. The game likely comes down to a field goal and in that scenario I’m going with the Irish.
Notre Dame 23, Penn State 20
Shayne: Penn State has had the most advantageous path to College Football Playoff semifinals, but now things kick up a notch this week against Notre Dame. Both teams rely on stout defenses and dominant running games, but I give Penn State the edge thanks to QB Drew Allar. Notre Dame QB Riley Leonard has had a fine season, but he isn’t the passer that Allar is. It should be a close one, but the Nittany Lions pull it out in the end.
Penn State 24, Notre Dame 21
Kevin: Defense will be the story of the game as both Penn State and Notre Dame are equipped well enough on that side of the ball to make this one a low-scoring affair. So which offense do I have more confidence in? Given the style of play that will be needed to win this game, I think Penn State has a distinct advantage on the ground with the combo of Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen. And the best offensive player in the game for either team will be tight end Tyler Warren. That gives me some connfidence that Penn State can work its way through a battle and win the Orange Bowl.
I am optimistic Abdul Carter plays, but if he is not good to go, that is a big concern for me. But either way, I think Penn State’s defense keeps this within reach for the offense to wiggle its way to a victroy.
Penn State 23, Notre Dame 20