After cleaning up in non-conference play, Penn State is opening up its Big Ten schedule with a night game on national TV against Illinois on Saturday night. Beaver Stadium should be electric for the first night game of the year and fans are pushing for an unofficial whiteout atmosphere in Happy Valley.
Penn State is a solid favorite this week against Illinois according to the betting odds this week, but the Illini will make the trip already with a road Big Ten win under their belts after coming away with one last weekend at Nebraska. But can they pull off a second straight primetime Big Ten road win against the Nittany Lions in one of the most challenging night game environments college football has to offer? Our staff does not feel like that is about to happen.
Here is how we see this weekend’s primetime Big Ten opener for the Nittany Lions playing out.
Brad: This might be the biggest test on the schedule to date for Penn State, but it certainly is the same for Illinois as they hit the road for a primetime matchup in Beaver Stadium. The Nittany Lions just have too much on both sides of the ball. They’re going to establish a ground game that opens up their passing attack to hit timely plays against this strong secondary. While the defense could get tested a bit, they’ll be able to do enough to give Penn State an important win.
Penn State 31, Illinois 14
Charlie: Penn State is better in all facets of the game than Illinois. However, the Fighting Illini have a defense that can generate turnovers and be a pest. If the Penn State offense coughs up the ball anything can happen, but I’m expecting another clean performance.
Penn State 30, Illinois 14
Kevin: Illinois is looking to be taking another step forward under head coach Bret Bielema this season, and they come into Happy Valley after scoring a hard-fought road win at Nebraska last week. But this environment will be something the Illini will struggle to keep under control. I look for the defense to set the tone and force Luke Altmyer into some uneasy situations throwing the football. On the flipside, I think Drew Allar continues to get in rhythm with his receivers, and tight end Tyler Warren has a big game in leading Penn State to a Big Ten victory under the lights of Beaver Stadium. Kaytron Allen scores twice in short-yardage situations as well.
Penn State 32, Illinois 17
Shayne: Illinois has been impressive through four games this year, but they have not played a team nearly the caliber of Penn State yet. The Nittany Lions are double-digit favorites for a reason, and I think they will take care of business at home.