Game days will return to State College this weekend. No. 8 Penn State (-35) will look to win its second game of the season when it takes on Bowling Green (1-0) on Saturday in the team’s home opener. The contest is set to kickoff at noon EDT and will be broadcast on BTN.
The Nittany Lions’ offense put on a convincing showing in the season opener at West Virginia, and this weekend will serve as an opportunity for offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki, quarterback Drew Allar and others to turn that success into consistency.
Here’s a preview and prediction for Saturday’s contest.
PREVIEW: If things go as planned, head coach James Franklin should be able to pull his starters relatively early, paving the way for a fresh crop of young players to see significant time. This game should showcase how much depth Penn State has, a telling sign in a season that could extend itself if the program is to qualify for the College Football Playoff.
All eyes will again be on Allar to perform at the level he did in Morgantown. But it’s backup quarterback Beau Pribula who could draw some headlines if Allar’s pulled early in what should be a blowout win.
The Falcons rushed for 305 yards in its season-opening victory over Fordham. Sure, they’re a MAC program, but the Nittany Lion defense can use all the reps it can get against quality rushing attacks before it takes on one of the nation’s best in Ohio State on Nov. 2.
PLAYERS TO WATCH: Pribula fielded 20 snaps against the Mountaineers, throwing a 19-yard touchdown and rushing three times for 25 yards. His workload should increase against Bowling Green, which could be in store for a more-aggressive Pribula in the pass game than has previously been showcased on tape.
There could also be increased field-goal opportunities against a lenient defense. Sander Sahaydak missed his lone try at West Virginia, and will likely be asked again to right his wrongs. If he falls short again, Franklin should be tasked with finding his replacement for a second consecutive season. His two other options are Ryan Barker and Tulsa transfer Chase Meyer.
KEY TO VICTORY: As seen in Oregon’s narrow 24-14 win over Idaho last weekend, no team can be taken for granted. And Franklin should know this after nearly falling to heavy underdog Appalachian State in the 2018 home opener. That being said, if the Nittany Lions view this opponent like they would any other, this game shouldn’t be close.
PREDICTION: Penn State 51, Bowling Green 7
