Maryland and Penn State are gearing up for an exciting regular season finale in a crucial Big Ten matchup. With both teams looking to make their mark, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Penn State vs. Maryland Preview
Maryland is coming off a tough 29-13 loss to Iowa, which has left the team eager to bounce back. On the other hand, Penn State is riding high after a nail-biting 26-25 victory against Minnesota. This contrast in momentum adds an intriguing layer to their upcoming clash.
Betting Odds and Predictions
As the game approaches, the betting lines are revealing just how much faith oddsmakers have in Penn State. According to FanDuel, the Nittany Lions opened as a hefty 24.5-point favorite, with the total set at 48.5 points. If you’re considering a moneyline bet, Penn State is a -4000 favorite, while Maryland sits as the underdog at +1400. Will the odds hold up, or will Maryland defy expectations?
How to Watch Maryland at Penn State
Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
Channel: Big Ten Network/Fubo TV (Streaming)
Location: State College, PA
Coach Franklin’s Perspective
Penn State’s head coach, James Franklin, has been vocal about the competitive landscape of college football. Ahead of the Maryland game, he emphasized the gap between the Big Ten and the SEC, arguing that the two conferences stand head and shoulders above the rest. “You look at our conference from top to bottom, I know everybody, all coaches, kind of get up talk about their conference, and they’re biased, but I think the metrics and the data speak about it,” Franklin stated. He believes that the Big Ten and SEC are in a league of their own, making every game a battle.
Franklin continued, “You better be ready week in and week out.” His words resonate with the challenges teams face throughout the season. The grind of preparing for tough opponents takes a toll, but Franklin believes both the players and coaching staff deserve credit for their dedication and hard work.
The Historical Rivalry
When it comes to the history between Maryland and Penn State, it’s a tale of dominance. The two teams have faced off 47 times, and the Nittany Lions lead the series with a staggering record of 43-3-1. The last time Maryland managed to defeat Penn State was in 2020, but that victory feels like a distant memory, especially after their 51-15 loss to the Nittany Lions in College Park earlier this season.
With such a lopsided rivalry, can Maryland turn the tide and reclaim some pride? Fans will be eagerly watching to see if the Terrapins can rise to the occasion and challenge the historical narrative.
What to Expect
As the teams prepare for their showdown, all eyes will be on how Maryland responds to their recent defeat. Will they come out with a chip on their shoulder, ready to prove they can compete with one of the top programs in the nation? Or will Penn State continue its dominance and secure another victory to bolster their season?
Both teams have talented players who can change the course of the game in an instant. Maryland’s offense will need to find its rhythm early, while Penn State’s defense will aim to stifle any momentum the Terrapins hope to build. The matchup promises to be a thrilling display of college football, showcasing the best of what the Big Ten has to offer.
In the end, this game is more than just another regular-season contest. It’s a chance for Maryland to prove they can compete at the highest level, while Penn State looks to solidify its status as a powerhouse in college football. As fans gear up for this electrifying matchup, one thing is clear: the passion and intensity of college football will be on full display.
