Game Overview: Ohio State vs. Penn State – Week 10

The Ohio State Buckeyes travel to Happy Valley, taking on the Penn State Nittany Lions. It is a top-five match-up. Ohio State leads the series 24-14 with a seven-game winning streak over Penn State. This week’s game breakdown examines each team’s top players and key match-ups.

Penn State’s Quarterback Situation

There is the sidelining Drew Allar in the second half of Saturday’s win over Wisconsin. With that, what is the biggest question for Penn State? It is, of course, who starts as quarterback? Allar, in his second year as a starter, has shown increased confidence. He’s throwing downfield more often, running more willingly, and rebounding from interceptions. Despite a three-interception game against USC, Allar led his team to victory. It would be a significant blow to Nittany Lions if he cannot play.

Penn State’s Backup Plan: Beau Pribula

What happens if Allar remains out? Sophomore Beau Pribula will get his first start. That is after seeing extended action in the second half against Wisconsin. Allar is an improved runner. But Pribula brings a level of speed. It is speed not seen in a quarterback Trace McSorley. Pribula’s dual-threat ability opens up running lanes for backs Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton. However, Pribula’s lack of arm strength limits the offense’s versatility. Fortunately, offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki could be a major asset in play-calling. It would maximize Pribula’s strengths.

Matchup Spotlight: Penn State Pass Catchers vs. Ohio State Secondary

Keep an eye on the key battle between Penn State’s pass catchers and Ohio State’s secondary. Tight end Tyler Warren is a versatile weapon. Why is that? He lined up in various spots during a record-setting game against USC. The Buckeyes will likely match safeties Caleb Downs, Sonny Styles, and Lathan Ransom against Warren. Remember former Ohio State transfers:

• Julian Fleming
• Harrison Wallace
• Liam Clifford
• Khalil Dinkins

They are also pass-catching threats for Penn State. Ohio State’s top corners, Denzel Burke and Davidson Igbinosun, recently struggled with penalties and giving up plays. Jermaine Matthews could be another cornerback option. Ohio State’s pass rush, led by JT Tuimoloau, Jack Sawyer, and others, will aim to disrupt Pribula’s comfort in the pocket.

Ohio State’s Offensive Outlook

Ohio State’s offense needs to improve to remain in the championship hunt. The Buckeyes’ offensive efforts start with quarterback Will Howard. Howard, a Kansas State transfer, brings veteran experience and dual-threat abilities. However, Ohio State needs him to elevate his play to win high-stakes games. Then there was the Nebraska game. Howard threw only 15 passes. Running backs Quinshon Judkins and Treveyon Henderson were each held under 30 yards. Still, Ohio State dominated.

Ohio State’s Receiving Corps vs. Penn State Secondary

Ohio State relies on the run but must get the ball to standout freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith. Smith aims to surpass Cris Carter’s legacy as a top freshman receiver. Veteran receiver Emeka Egbuka, breakout talent Carnell Tate, and tight end Gee Scott Jr. round out the receiving corps. Penn State’s secondary is led by:

• Jaylen Reed
• Zakee Wheatley
• Aj Harris
• Cam Miller
• Kevin Winston Jr.
• Jalen Kimber

They will aim to contain Ohio State’s offensive threats.

Ohio State’s Offensive Line vs. Penn State’s Defensive Front

The Buckeyes’ biggest concern is their offensive line. It has struggled recently. They also face another challenge against Penn State’s deep defensive line. Penn State’s front seven is formidable, led by Abdul Carter, Zane Durant, and Tony Rosas. Dani Dennis-Sutton’s availability is uncertain. Still, defenders like Kobe King, Smith Vilbert, Alonzo Ford Jr., Tyler Elson, Amin Vanover, and Dominic Deluca add depth to this unit.

Coaching Matchup and CAPE Analysis

Finally, a look at last year’s performance against the spread under CAPE (Coaching Above Performance Expectations) reveals both coaches’ ability to outperform. Ohio State’s Ryan Day ranked 9th nationally, beating the spread by an average of 8 points per game. James Franklin’s Penn State squad finished 20th, averaging 5 points over the spread. Both teams enter this game strong, so which side will give first? Will Allar return as Penn State’s starter? Will Ohio State’s dominance over Penn State continue? Find out with University Foot-Ball.

Author – Tarohn Finley