In Week 13 of college football, the No. 4 Penn State Nittany Lions (9-1, 6-1) are set to take on the Minnesota Golden Gophers (6-4, 4-3) at TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. The matchup, airing on CBS and streaming on Paramount+, kicks off at 3:30 p.m. ET. Penn State is coming off a commanding 49-10 victory against Purdue and aims to maintain its strong position for a spot in the College Football Playoffs. Conversely, Minnesota, after a bye week, looks to bounce back at home following a loss to Rutgers on November 9.
This encounter marks the first meeting between the two teams since their last clash in 2022, where Penn State secured a decisive 45-17 win. Notably, both teams enter this game with no reported injuries, allowing for full-strength lineups.
Currently, the betting odds favor Penn State by 11.5 points, with a total points over/under set at 45, slightly down from initial estimates. SportsLine’s projection model has been profitable, generating over $2,000 for $100 players on its top college spread picks.
Minnesota could potentially pose a significant challenge for Penn State. The Golden Gophers are known for their solid defensive play, ranking among the top in the Big Ten for both total and passing yards allowed. Their defensive strategy may provide them with opportunities to keep the score close. Minnesota’s quarterback, Max Brosmer, has demonstrated an effective passing ability, which could expand their offensive options.
On the other hand, Penn State holds a historical advantage, boasting a series record of 10-6 against Minnesota and winning four games in Minneapolis. Quarterback Drew Allar has maintained a high level of accuracy and will be essential for advancing the ball against Minnesota’s tough defense. The Nittany Lions’ strong running game, spearheaded by Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton, is expected to play a crucial role as well.
In conclusion, as both teams prepare for this critical matchup, the stage is set for an exciting showdown with implications for postseason hopes. Whether you’re a fan of Penn State or Minnesota, this game promises to be an engaging one, highlighting the competitive spirit of college football.
By watching closely how both teams adapt their strategies, fans can look forward to a thrilling contest that showcases the best of Big Ten football.