The drought has come to an end for Penn State football, as the Nittany Lions find themselves competing in the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history. This historic event unfolds Saturday when the No. 6 seed Nittany Lions (11-2) host the No. 11 seed SMU Mustangs (11-2) at Beaver Stadium. Kickoff is set for noon ET, marking an exciting first-round matchup in the CFP.
Both teams approach this game fresh off losses in their respective conference championships. Under the leadership of key players like Drew Allar, Tyler Warren, and Abdul Carter, Penn State boasts a well-rounded squad with strengths on both offense and defense, ranking in the top 25 nationally. SMU counters with a potent offense that ranks sixth in the nation, promising an exhilarating clash.
Interestingly, this matchup not only represents a competitive battle but also a rekindling of a long-forgotten rivalry. It has been over four decades since these two programs faced off, with their last meeting in 1978 resulting in a narrow victory for Penn State.
This game will also mark the third all-time encounter between the Nittany Lions and the Mustangs. The previous contests included a tie in the 1948 Cotton Bowl, where Penn State made history by fielding a team that included Black players, and a victory for the Nittany Lions on their last meeting at Beaver Stadium.
As both teams step onto the field, they carry the weight of their program’s legacies, as well as the hopes of their passionate fan bases. The winner will not only take home a victory but will advance to the prestigious Fiesta Bowl on New Year’s Eve, facing No. 3 Boise State.
In essence, this matchup encapsulates a moment of triumph for both programs, breaking new ground in their playoff journeys while honoring their storied pasts. Fans can look forward to a thrilling game that celebrates the spirit of college football.