Penn State is on the road this weekend with the unenviable task of attempting to snap a losing streak while taking on one of the best teams in the Big Ten, and potentially the country. Ohio State poses a big challenge for the Nittany Lions and last week showed the two teams could be trending in opposite directions. But, as they say, there is a reason you play the game.
Penn State is a sizable underdog on the road against the Buckeyes this week, but could last week’s result against Illinois be influencing the line more than things would have looked if this game was played a few weeks ago? Will Sean Clifford be healthy for this matchup?
Our staff is going on the record once again as Penn State looks to shock the world this weekend in Columbus.
Sam Dehring, Contributor (@Sam_Dehring68)
Season overall (Against the spread): 4-2 (3-3)
After watching last week’s game, it’s tough to put Penn State in favor in any aspect of this matchup. However, there have been tons of matchups in the Big Ten that have been close. I don’t think this will be one of them. I think Ohio State wins with a score of 31-17.
Kevin McGuire, Editor (@KevinOnCFB)
Season overall (Against the spread): 5-1 (3-3)
If Sean Clifford is truly at 100% or considerably much closer to it than he was last week, then Penn State’s offense has a great opportunity to create some drives that will result in points. The defense will not allow this game to get too out of hand, but Ohio State is just on cruise control right now and I can’t fathom the Buckeyes don’t have enough big plays in them to avoid being upset at home. I think Penn State keeps it somewhat respectable, but Ohio State wins fairly comfortably.
Ohio State 36, Penn State 23
David Malandra, Contributor (@DaveMReports)
Season overall (Against the spread): 4-2 (2-4)
This will be a game we’ll define Shawn Clifford as a quarterback as he will go in a hostile environment and win a big game. And the defense will come up and make some crucial stops. Penn State will pull the upset and win 31-23.[lawrence-related id=9178,9180,9169,9167]
Follow Nittany Lions Wire on Twitter and like us on Facebook for continuing Penn State coverage and discussion.