Preview: Penn State vs Ohio State - Oct. 25, 2008

By Dr. Vegas

It’s not just a Big 10 Battle… It’s a Top 10 battle. The #3 ranked 7-0 Nittany Lions travel to Columbus to face the 10th ranked 7-1 Ohio State Buckeyes in what should prove to be the most significant Big 10 matchup of the season. The team that wins this game mostly likely take the Big 10 Title. No pressure or anything.

Even though both teams have impressive straight up records, a closer look at the numbers can yield clues to this matchup. Ohio State is 2-5 ATS while Penn State is 5-1-1 against the number. Penn State has won its road games by an average of 32.3 points per game, while Ohio State has won its home games by an average of 19.8 points per game.

The Nittany Lions have not won in Columbus since 1978, and the Buckeyes have their sights set on a fourth straight Big 10 championship.

The Dr. Vegas Exclusive power ratings show Penn State at +12.1, with an opponent ratings of -1.2. Ohio State’s PR is +5.7, with an opponent rating of -2.0. Penn State has performed better against slightly stronger opponents. Moreover, Penn State has played one less game, but scored 82 more points this year than Ohio State and given up 23 less.

Despite the history of these teams and Ohio State’s ownership of the Big 10 crown, Penn State’s time has come.

Free Pick from Dr. Vegas: Take Penn State -2.5 over Ohio State