Penn State football secured a decisive 38-10 victory over SMU in the opening round of the College Football Playoff. This win advances the Nittany Lions to the quarterfinals, where they will face the formidable Boise State Broncos, led by Heisman Trophy runner-up Ashton Jeanty, in Glendale, Arizona.
The upcoming matchup will showcase a significant change in climate for Penn State, as their last game was played in frigid temperatures hovering below 25 degrees. In contrast, the New Year’s Eve game at State Farm Stadium may enjoy pleasant temperatures in the high 60s, especially if the stadium’s retractable roof is opened. This shift could have an interesting impact on game performance, as players adjust to a more favorable playing environment.
Both teams are known for their strong rushing offenses, setting the stage for an exciting contest. As the quarterfinal bracket takes shape, Penn State is set to meet Boise State in a highly anticipated matchup. Other quarterfinal games include No. 7 Notre Dame battling No. 2 Georgia in the Sugar Bowl, No. 4 Arizona State facing Texas in the Peach Bowl, and the winner of Ohio State vs. Tennessee going up against No. 1 Oregon in the Rose Bowl.
Experts suggest that while Jeanty has been impressive throughout the season, Boise State may lack in other critical areas compared to Penn State, potentially giving the Nittany Lions a competitive edge as they seek a spot in the semifinals.
The CFP quarterfinals commence with the Fiesta Bowl featuring Penn State and Boise State on New Year’s Eve at 7:30 p.m., followed by additional matchups on New Year’s Day, including the Peach Bowl, Rose Bowl, and Sugar Bowl.
For fans eager to attend the Fiesta Bowl, tickets are available for this thrilling showdown.
This exciting time for Penn State football not only showcases their resilience but also offers fans the hope of advancing further in the playoffs. The upcoming games are an opportunity for the team to prove their strength on a national level, with the potential for memorable moments during this playoff run.