Big Ten football action returns this Saturday as the fourth-ranked Penn State Nittany Lions (9-1, 6-1) are set to take on the Minnesota Golden Gophers (6-4, 4-3) in Minneapolis. With Penn State looking to maintain their strong position for a spot in the College Football Playoffs following an impressive 49-10 victory over Purdue, this matchup promises to be pivotal. Meanwhile, Minnesota comes off a bye week seeking redemption after a recent defeat against Rutgers.
The Nittany Lions have a favorable track record against the Gophers, defeating them 45-17 during their last encounter in 2022. Both teams enter the contest with no significant injury concerns, setting the stage for a competitive game at TCF Bank Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 3:30 PM ET.
As the game approaches, Penn State is being favored by 11.5 points, and betting enthusiasts have significant interest in the matchup’s over/under, currently set at 45 points. CBS and Paramount+ will provide live coverage of the game, with a promotional seven-day free trial available for new subscribers.
Minnesota may have an opportunity to keep the score close; their defense is one of the toughest that Penn State will face, allowing only 296.4 total yards per game and ranking sixth in the Big Ten for passing defense. This could challenge Penn State quarterback Drew Allar, who will need to remain composed and efficient under pressure. Additionally, Minnesota’s Max Brosmer has maintained a solid passer rating, providing the Gophers with both a running and passing threat.
While Minnesota has its advantages, Penn State boasts a psychological edge with a strong historical record against the Gophers and recent successful performances against other teams in their conference. The Nittany Lions’ potent running game, led by Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton, will be crucial in overcoming Minnesota’s defensive efforts.
In terms of betting insights, SportsLine’s model predicts a total score of over 47 points and identifies one side of the spread that hits well above 50% of the time in simulations.
As fans gear up for this intriguing matchup, both teams have much to play for, and the outcome could have significant implications for their seasons moving forward. With the intense competition and anticipation surrounding Big Ten football, this game promises to showcase some of the best talent in college football.