Preview: Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Penn State Nittany Lions

 

Preview: Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Penn State Nittany Lions

Game Details

• Date & Time: Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025 at 12:00 PM ET. CBS Sports+2CBS Sports+2

• Location: Ohio Stadium — Columbus, Ohio. CBS Sports+1

• TV / Streaming: FOX – with live stream via platforms such as Fubo. CBS Sports+1

Teams at a Glance

Ohio State

• Undefeated at 7-0, 4-0 in Big Ten play. NBC Sports+2CBS Sports+2

• Defense: Ranked #1 nationally in yards per play allowed (3.81) and points per drive (0.57) this season. NBC Sports+1

• Offense: #11 in efficiency; quarterback Julian Sayin leads the country with an 80% completion rate (1,872 yards, 19 TDs, 3 INTs). CBS Sports+1

• Rushing game: Currently averaging just 3.8 yards per carry in conference play, ranking 10th of 18 Big Ten teams. CBS Sports+1

Penn State

• Record: 3-4 overall, 0-4 in Big Ten. CBS Sports

• Coaching situation: Playing under interim coach Terry Smith following the departure of James Franklin. CBS Sports+1

• Offense: Despite decent success metrics (47.3% success rate, 3.03 points per drive), ranked 129th in explosiveness — lacking big-play production. NBC Sports

• Defense: Ranked 18th in SP+ (defensive efficiency), allowing 4.63 yards per play (17th nationally). Still, struggles in key moments have cost them. NBC Sports+1

Odds & Betting Trends

• Latest spread: Ohio State favored by ~20.5 points. NBC Sports+2CBS Sports+2

• Moneyline: Ohio State heavily favored (≈ -1800) vs. Penn State (+1000). NBC Sports+1

• Total (Over/Under): Around 44.5 points. NBC Sports+1

• Historical match-up: Ohio State has won the last eight meetings vs. Penn State. CBS Sports+1

Key Factors & What to Watch

• Ohio State’s rushing challenge: Although winning comfortably, their run game has yielded only 3.8 yards per carry in conference play — a relative weakness to watch. CBS Sports+1

• Penn State’s nothing-to-lose mindset: With their season already off track, the Nittany Lions may play looser and more aggressively, potentially offering upset potential. CBS Sports+1

• Match-up of elite receivers: Ohio State features a dynamic duo in Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate (602 and 587 yards respectively) giving the Buckeyes a major edge in the passing game. CBS Sports

• Penn State’s defense vs. Ohio State’s offense: Though Penn State’s defense ranks well in general, containing Ohio State’s balance and fire-power will be a tall order. NBC Sports+1

Prediction & Pick

With all factors weighed, Ohio State appears to have the clear advantage. Their dominant defense, efficient offense, and historical edge point toward a convincing victory.
Projected: Ohio State covers (~-20.5). CBS Sports+1

Final Take

This contest is more than just a Big Ten game — it has College Football Playoff and conference-title implications. While Penn State may bring an edge of desperation, Ohio State’s consistency and superior metrics suggest they’ll control the game. Look for the Buckeyes to win moving toward another season of elite expectations.