Scarlet and Game
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Ohio State Football: Predicting second half of the season

By Alex Austin

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 01: Johnnie Dixon III of the Ohio State Buckeyes runs with the ball after a catch against the Northwestern Wildcats during the Big Ten Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 01: Johnnie Dixon III of the Ohio State Buckeyes runs with the ball after a catch against the Northwestern Wildcats during the Big Ten Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
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IOWA CITY, IOWA- OCTOBER 12: Quarterback Sean Clifford #14 of the Penn State Nittany Lions scrambles on a keeper in the second half in front of linebacker Nick Niemann #49 and defensive end A.J. Epenesa #94 of the Iowa Hawkeyes, on October 12, 2019 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. (Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images)
IOWA CITY, IOWA- OCTOBER 12: Quarterback Sean Clifford #14 of the Penn State Nittany Lions scrambles on a keeper in the second half in front of linebacker Nick Niemann #49 and defensive end A.J. Epenesa #94 of the Iowa Hawkeyes, on October 12, 2019 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. (Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images) /

November 23 – Penn State

Reasons for Optimism: In recent years, Penn State has been the rivalry game with the most intrigue as the biggest margin of victory the last three years being just three points. However, this year the Nittany Lions are without Trace McSorley and Saquon Barkley.

Penn State started the season looking strong offensively, but when playing teams with solid defenses it’s a different story. Unable to sustain drives or get the big home run play has made this team more one-dimensional than previous Nittany Lions teams that have pushed the Buckeyes to the brink.

Reasons for Concern: This is often the biggest game of the year for Penn State fans. While Ohio State looks straight to “The Game” with excitement, Penn State circles this game as their season defining matchup.

In other words, the Nittany Lions will come to play. Penn State’s defense has been incredible at shutting down opponents and keeping their offense in the game. It’s possible with Michigan looming the following week Ohio State loses focus and gets in a tight defense matchup.

Ohio State uses a strong fourth quarter to beat Penn State. In a game that feels much closer than the final score, Ohio State emerges unscathed and ready to take on their arch rival.

Prediction: Ohio State 34 – Penn State 20

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