Ohio State vs. Penn State: How to watch and what to expect in Saturday’s Big Ten clash

One of college football’s most storied rivalries returns this Saturday as the No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes host the Penn State Nittany Lions at Ohio Stadium. While this matchup was originally projected to be a top-five showdown, Penn State enters the game reeling from a four-game losing streak, a midseason coaching change, and the loss […]

Ian Valentino — National College Football Writer
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One of college football’s most storied rivalries returns this Saturday as the No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes host the Penn State Nittany Lions at Ohio Stadium. While this matchup was originally projected to be a top-five showdown, Penn State enters the game reeling from a four-game losing streak, a midseason coaching change, and the loss of starting quarterback Drew Allar. Interim head coach Terry Smith will lead the Nittany Lions into Columbus with hopes of salvaging a season that began with playoff aspirations.

Ohio State, meanwhile, has been dominant. The Buckeyes are undefeated (7-0) and fresh off a 34-0 dismantling of Wisconsin. Redshirt freshman quarterback Julian Sayin has been sensational, completing 80% of his passes and leading an offense powered by elite receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate. The Buckeyes’ defense, led by coordinator Matt Patricia, has allowed just 5.8 points per game—best in the FBS.

Despite the disparity in records and momentum, Penn State has historically played Ohio State tough. But with the Buckeyes favored by 20.5 points and Penn State struggling to find an offensive rhythm, the odds are stacked against the visitors. Still, rivalry games often defy expectations.

How to watch Ohio State vs. Penn State

  • Date: Saturday, November 1, 2025
  • Time: 12:00 PM ET
  • Location: Ohio Stadium, Columbus, Ohio
  • TV Channel: FOX (Big Noon Kickoff)
  • Streaming: FOX Sports App, FuboTV
  • Radio: Sirius XM 385, local stations including WBNS-FM 97.1 (Columbus) and 99.5 FM (State College)
  • Experts: Ohio State vs. Penn State final score prediction

Keys to Victory

Ohio State

  • Establish the run: Despite their dominance, the Buckeyes rank 11th in Big Ten rushing yards per game. Improving ground efficiency will balance the offense.
  • Pressure the freshman QB: Penn State’s Ethan Grunkemeyer is making just his second start. Disrupting his rhythm early could force turnovers.
  • Stay focused: With Michigan looming, Ohio State must avoid looking ahead and maintain intensity against a wounded rival.

Penn State

  • Lean on Kaytron Allen: The running back has been a bright spot, and controlling the clock will be key to keeping Ohio State’s offense off the field.
  • Limit explosive plays: Ohio State’s receivers are elite. Penn State’s secondary must prevent deep shots and force long drives.
  • Play with urgency: With nothing to lose, Penn State must take risks—trick plays, aggressive fourth-down calls, and defensive blitzes.

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