No. 3 Penn State aims to break a seven-game losing streak against No. 4 Ohio State. Here’s the approach.

No. 4 Ohio State (6-1, 3-1 Big Ten) at No. 3 Penn State (7-0, 4-0), Saturday, noon ET (FOX)

College Football Odds: Ohio State favored by 3 points.

Series Record: Ohio State leads 25-14.

What’s at Stake?

Almost everything, especially for Ohio State. A second conference loss could end the Buckeyes’ hopes for a Big Ten Championship and hurt their College Football Playoff chances. For the Nittany Lions, there’s a bit more flexibility, but breaking a seven-game losing streak to Ohio State would significantly strengthen Penn State’s postseason profile.

Key Matchup

The critical clash to watch is Ohio State’s offensive line against Penn State’s formidable defensive front. The Buckeyes’ offense showed vulnerability last week when a Nebraska defense—coming off a 56-point game surrendered to Indiana—managed to disrupt their rhythm. This week, Ohio State faces an even tougher test against the Big Ten’s second-ranked defense (with Ohio State ranked first) in the challenging environment of Beaver Stadium, where a crowd of over 100,000 fans awaits. This matchup will test Ohio State’s line on their ability to manage Penn State’s consistent pressure, especially after their loss to Oregon just weeks ago highlighted areas of concern.

Players to Watch

Ohio State: LB Cody Simon
Graduate linebacker Cody Simon, the defensive captain, enters this matchup as a critical figure. Fresh off an impactful performance against Nebraska, Simon showcased his value by breaking up a crucial fourth-down pass at the goal line to halt a Nebraska drive and recording two tackles for loss on their final possession. Simon’s experience and leadership will be vital as he looks to keep Penn State’s offensive threats in check and stabilize the Buckeye defense under high-stakes pressure. His ability to read and react could be pivotal to Ohio State’s overall defensive strategy in this game.

Penn State: TE Tyler Warren
Tight end Tyler Warren is expected to be a focal point for Penn State, regardless of who starts at quarterback, especially with Drew Allar’s status up in the air due to injury. Warren has been a reliable playmaker, nearly leading a comeback in the victory over Southern California and proving himself as Penn State’s most consistent offensive threat. The game plan will likely prioritize Warren’s involvement, as his ability to make key plays could be crucial in breaking through Ohio State’s tough defense.

Facts & Figures

– This marks the first top-5 matchup between the teams since 1996, when No. 3 Ohio State beat No. 4 Penn State 38-7.
– Penn State is tough to catch if they get ahead, having allowed just 30 second-half points this season, with only six of those in the fourth quarter.
– Ohio State QB Will Howard ranks second nationally in quarterback efficiency (183.90), third in completion percentage (74.0%), and is tied for 14th in touchdown passes (17).
– Penn State has not lost a game on November 2 since 1935, with 10 consecutive wins on this date.
– Ohio State freshman WR Jeremiah Smith is close to breaking Cris Carter’s freshman record for receptions. Smith has 35 catches so far, and Carter set the record with 41 in 1984.
– The Buckeyes gained a season-low 285 yards against Nebraska last week, marking only the third time since Ryan Day became head coach in 2019 that they were held under 300 yards.
– Penn State’s running backs Kaytron Allen (509 yards) and Nick Singleton (493 yards) are a formidable duo. They are the first pair of Nittany Lions to surpass 2,000 career rushing yards each since Lydell Mitchell and Franco Harris.
– Ohio State is one of just three FBS teams to score on every red-zone trip this season, converting 27 of 27 opportunities, with 25 resulting in touchdowns.