Ohio State Buckeyes (6-1) vs. Penn State Nittany Lions (7-0)
The Week 10 Game of the Week sees the Ohio State University travelling to the unbeaten Penn State Nittany Lions, a game that could change the College Football Playoff picture. The match is set for high noon on Saturday, October 29 and will be broadcast across the nation on FOX. It’s the biggest of this season’s NCAAF picks and predictions. As the lion’s share of fans and pundits expect, the Buckeyes will be out to ruin the Lions’ and reinforce their own supremacy.
Ohio State’s offensive unit’s rhythm has been in good hands, with the likes of Quinshon Judkins and Jeremiah Smith all season long. Judkins increases the dimension of a rushing threat for a team with 520 accumulated rushing yards, six touchdowns, and an average of 6.4 yards per rush. His 86-yard longest rush bears witness to his capacity to run away with the ball for large gains. Smith has also been the receiving corps leader for the offense with 623 yards and eight touchdowns, so he is an excellent player when the team is in need of big gains and the time is critical.
On the other hand, for Penn State, Kaytron Allen and Tyler Warren have risen to be key offensive players. Allen’s 509 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns as the lead back provides a good case for how useful he has been for the Nittany Lions. Such consistency makes it easy for Penn State’s ground game, which they are heavily dependant on, to be established. However, tight end Warren has been in great shape and has been a surprise package with 559 receiving yards and four touchdowns. If he continues to catch big passes, it could be a problem for Ohio State’s secondary defenders.
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Penn State Nittany Lions Game Info
| When: | Saturday, November 2, 2024 at 12:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Beaver Stadium |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Will Howard QB vs. Beau Pribula QB
Will Howard has established himself as an important player in Ohio State, throwing 1,795 yards and 17 touchdowns with a completion percentage of 74 percent. His efficiency and game management is also evidenced by his passer rating of 183.9. Even though he was sacked five times and threw four interceptions, Howard’s calmness under pressure and the precision of his deep throws will be significant factors in overcoming the Nittany Lions defense.
On the other hand, another Nittany Lion, Beau Pribula, has limited playing time, but his numbers are quite impressive as well for a quarterback. A completion percentage of 78.3 percent, 200 yards and three touchdowns in few chances gives a glimpse at what he can do with more playing time. Seeing that Pribula has no sacks recorded along with an efficient passer rating of 185.7, means that he is cool-headed in the pocket, which is a must against Ohio State’s aggressive defensive line.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Ohio State Buckeyes -165, Total Odds: 45.5
The current betting landscape sees Ohio State as slight favorites on the road with a -3.5 spread and -165 moneyline, suggesting oddsmakers’ confidence in their ability to cover the spread against Penn State. The total set at 45.5 with leanings towards the under reflects expectations of a tightly contested defensive battle.
Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Trends
Ohio State has a mixed bag when it comes to covering the spread, being 3-6 ATS in their last 9 games. However, their track record of 6-1 SU in their last 7 games and an impressive 17-3 SU on the road suggests they know how to win crucial away games. Their historical dominance over Penn State, especially at Beaver Stadium (7-0 SU in the last 7), could play a psychological edge.
Penn State Nittany Lions Betting Trends
Despite their undefeated record this season, Penn State shows vulnerability in covering the spread, going 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games. The trend of games going under in 4 of their last 5 could suggest a defense-heavy strategy, particularly effective in home games where they are 5-0 SU in their last 5.
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Penn State Nittany Lions 11/2/2024 Betting Picks
As the game day draws nearer, the odds highlight the focus and concerns for both teams. Considering its great record on the road coupled with offensive capabilities, Ohio State appears to be in a position to upset Penn State’s unbeaten record. But then again, the home advantage and good defense of the Nittany Lions can make this quite a tactical battle where every single possession is crucial. What is expected at best is how both quarterbacks handle the ball under pressure which may eventually set the pace and even the result of the game.
Regarding betting, you might expect Ohio State to cover the spread since they really have an advantage historically in this contest. The total goes under 45.5 looks reasonable, given the defense that both teams have, and the importance of the game. In terms of best live betting at the recommended site, you anticipate pushes in performance and alter your stakes in what will be an interesting game.
