As college football heats up in Week 13, CBS and Paramount+ are set to broadcast a key matchup between the No. 4 Penn State Nittany Lions and the Minnesota Golden Gophers. The Nittany Lions (9-1, 6-1) are riding high after a dominant 49-10 victory against Purdue, while the Golden Gophers (6-4, 4-3) are eagerly looking to rebound at home following a loss to Rutgers before their bye week.
This Saturday’s showdown marks the first clash between these two teams since 2022, when Penn State triumphed with a decisive 45-17 win. Significantly, both squads head into the game without any injury concerns reported, setting the stage for a competitive environment.
Kickoff is slated for 3:30 p.m. ET at TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. Penn State enters as the 11.5-point favorite, and the overall point total has been set at 45. For those looking to delve deeper into betting predictions, insights from SportsLine’s Projection Model can be explored, given its strong historical performance in college football spreads.
The Gophers, known for their solid defense, will look to challenge the Nittany Lions’ offense effectively. Minnesota has had two weeks to prepare and boasts a defense that allows only 296.4 total yards per game, ranking among the toughest units faced by Penn State. Quarterback Max Brosmer’s consistent performance may enhance their chances against a formidable opponent.
Conversely, Penn State’s success so far in the season gives them an edge, especially with their historical dominance against Minnesota. Quarterback Drew Allar’s accuracy will be critical, and the Nittany Lions are expected to leverage their strong rushing attack for success on the ground.
In terms of predictions, SportsLine’s model anticipates an exciting game that could see over 47 points scored.
This matchup is pivotal for Penn State as they aim for a solid standing in the College Football Playoffs, while Minnesota seeks to boost their momentum at home. Fans can expect an exhilarating game filled with strategic plays and compelling football, indicative of the competitive spirit of the Big Ten Conference.