Ohio State vs. Penn State: A High-Stakes Showdown in Week 10
As college football fans gear up for one of the most anticipated matchups of the season, #4 Ohio State (6-1, 3-1 Big Ten) heads to Beaver Stadium to face #3 Penn State (7-0, 4-0 Big Ten) on Saturday, November 2. This clash is not just another game; it’s a pivotal moment in the Big Ten landscape, with playoff implications hanging in the balance. The Buckeyes enter as a 4-point road favorite, but the status of Penn State’s star quarterback, Drew Allar, looms large over the contest.
The Stakes Are High
It’s been eight long years since Penn State last defeated Ohio State, and this season seemed like the perfect opportunity to end that drought. However, the unexpected knee injury to Allar has cast a shadow over the Nittany Lions’ hopes. With his status uncertain, sportsbooks have adjusted the odds, favoring the Buckeyes in this critical matchup.
Ohio State vs. Penn State Odds
| 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) |
The Buckeyes opened as 3-point favorites, but early betting action quickly pushed the line to -4. The over/under has remained steady at 47.5 points, although that could change depending on Allar’s availability.
Allar’s Injury: A Game-Changer?
Drew Allar’s injury is a significant storyline leading into this matchup. The Nittany Lions’ quarterback exited the game against Wisconsin in the first half after suffering a knee injury. Before leaving, Allar had thrown for 148 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his ability to lead the offense effectively. His absence would be a massive blow to Penn State, as he has been instrumental in their success this season, accumulating 1,640 passing yards and 12 touchdowns.
In Allar’s absence, sophomore Beau Pribula stepped in and led a remarkable comeback against Wisconsin, throwing for two touchdowns and helping the Nittany Lions secure a 21-3 second-half advantage. However, Pribula’s lack of experience—he has no collegiate starts—raises concerns about his ability to perform against a formidable Ohio State defense.
Buckeyes’ Recent Performance
Ohio State is coming off a narrow escape against Nebraska, where they needed a late-game interception to avoid an upset. 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, boasting one of the top defenses in the nation, allowing just 11.9 points per game.
The Buckeyes are looking for a signature win to bolster their playoff resume. With a strong roster and a history of success against Penn State, they are poised to capitalize on any weaknesses in the Nittany Lions’ lineup.
Historical Context
The historical context of this rivalry heavily favors Ohio State. The Buckeyes have won seven consecutive meetings against Penn State, with their last loss to the Nittany Lions dating back to 2017. In the last five matchups, Ohio State has consistently outperformed Penn State, with only one game decided by fewer than eight points.
Last 5 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 |
James Franklin’s tenure at Penn State has seen only one victory over Ohio State in ten attempts, underscoring the challenge the Nittany Lions face in this matchup.
Early Prediction and Betting Insights
As the game approaches, the betting landscape is shifting. If Allar is ruled out, expect the line to move further in favor of Ohio State. Even if he plays, he may not be at full strength, which could hinder Penn State’s chances against a desperate and talented Buckeyes squad.
Ohio State’s superior metrics on both sides of the ball make them the favorite in this matchup. They excel in offensive efficiency and defensive prowess, ranking among the top teams in the nation in both categories.
For bettors looking to capitalize on this matchup, the recommendation is clear: take Ohio State -4 (-110). With the uncertainty surrounding Allar and the Buckeyes’ historical dominance, this game could be a pivotal moment in the Big Ten race and the College Football Playoff picture.
As kickoff approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Penn State can overcome the odds and secure a long-awaited victory over their rivals.