Penn State vs. Ohio State: Breaking Down the 18.5-Point Spread Showdown
Penn State heads to Columbus as 18.5-point underdogs after their playoff hopes were dashed in a nine-overtime loss to Illinois. Ohio State leads the Big Ten East at 4-0, while Penn State sits fourth at 2-2.
Ohio State's Recent Performance:
- Started slow with a 14-point win vs Minnesota and loss to Oregon
- Found rhythm in recent weeks with dominant wins:
- Tulsa (21 points), Akron (52), Rutgers (39), Maryland (49), Indiana (47)
- #1 scoring offense averaging 49.3 points per game
- Defense allowing 18.6 points per game (17th nationally)
Penn State's Season Overview:
- Two losses by combined 5 points
- Five wins with margins of 6-31 points
- Notable win against ranked Auburn
- QB Sean Clifford dealing with ongoing injury
- Strong defense: 14.3 points allowed per game (3rd nationally)
- Leads nation in yards allowed per pass (4.9)
Betting Analysis: Ohio State has demonstrated ability to cover large spreads recently. Key matchup will be OSU's explosive offense vs Penn State's elite pass defense. Ohio State's chances of covering improve if they can establish the run game and wear down Penn State's defense. A close game is possible if Penn State's defense contains Ohio State's passing attack.
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