No. 1 Oregon and No. 3 Penn State will meet at lucas Oil stadium in a Big Ten Championship Game matchup few could have predicted this season. After all,the Big Ten has long been a conference dominated by Ohio State and Michigan,and when the league dropped divisions,most were certain those would be the two programs reaching this game.
Instead, it’s an Oregon program navigating the Big Ten for the first time – a program that happens too be the only undefeated FBS team remaining. Standing between the Ducks and a big Ten title is a Penn State team that was largely written off as a Big Ten contender after losing to Ohio State earlier in the season.
While both teams are firmly entrenched in the CFP’s 12-team field, the No.1 seed and a bye is reachable for both. If Oregon wins, it’ll remain at no. 1, and Penn State could jump to No. 1 with a win over the Ducks even if No. 2 Texas beats Georgia.
Follow along with LIVE updates as Oregon and Penn State clash for the Big Ten Championship.
How to watch Oregon vs. Penn State live
Date: Saturday, December 7 | Time: 8 p.m. ET
Location: Lucas Oil Stadium – Indianapolis, IN
TV: CBS | Live stream: CBSSports.com, CBS Sports App (Free)
Streaming on Paramount+ with Showtime (Try It Free)
Oregon vs. Penn State: Need to know
Oregon could do something only Michigan State has done before: With a win in this game, Oregon would boast victories over Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State in the same season. All in their first year in the Big Ten! Only one other program has done that, and it’s Michigan State. The funny part? Michigan State has done it five times! Most recently in 2015, but the Spartans did it in 1951, 1965, 1966, and 1999 as well. Remember, Penn State didn’t join the league until 1993, so those first three times included nonconference games.
Oregon is one of five teams to reach the conference championship in its first season in a new league this year: It seems there’s value in unfamiliarity. The new blood across the country has found plenty of success in their new homes this season. Arizona State (Big 12),army (American),SMU (ACC),and Texas (SEC) are all playing in conference title games this week after joining their new leagues this season.
Penn State is 4-12 all-time against the No. 1 team in the AP Top 25: I know 4-12 doesn’t seem like a good record,but keep in mind No. 1 teams don’t lose very often. That’s why they’re No. 1. Winning 25% of those 16 games is better than most programs. While the Nittany Lions have enjoyed success, there hasn’t been much lately.The last win over a No. 1 team came in 1990 against Notre Dame. They haven’t done it since joining the Big Ten.
Oregon vs. Penn state prediction, picks
I’ve seen plenty of surprise from fans and media alike that Oregon is only a 3.5-point favorite in the game, but the spread makes sense. There’s far too much attention paid to Penn State’s inability to beat Ohio State, and it overshadows the fact the Nittany Lions are a genuinely good team! But if I’m taking a side in this game, I’m going with the Ducks. While both teams are evenly matched, there’s one spot that Oregon has a big advantage: at receiver. Penn State’s entire passing attack is built through Tyler Warren, and he’s awesome, but what if Oregon takes him away? What’s the counter? Oregon has plenty of options, and it should be enough to make the difference. Pick: Oregon -3.5
– What challenges does Penn State pose for Oregon in the upcoming championship game?
Time.news Interview: the Unexpected Rise of Oregon in the Big Ten Championship
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Welcome to time.news, where we bring you insights from the world of sports and beyond. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Laura Thompson, a sports analyst and college football expert. Dr. Thompson, thank you for joining us!
Dr. laura Thompson: Thank you for having me! It’s a thrilling time in college football, and I’m excited to discuss this remarkable season.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. When we look at the upcoming Big Ten Championship Game, it’s No. 1 Oregon facing No. 3 Penn State. How did we end up with this matchup? Many expected Ohio State and Michigan to be the frontrunners.
Dr. thompson: It’s certainly a surprise! The Big ten restructuring and dropping divisions opened up the field, allowing teams like oregon and Penn State to rise to the occasion. Oregon’s undefeated status is remarkable, particularly as it’s their first time navigating the Big Ten landscape. It speaks volumes about their adaptation and resilience.
Editor: Oregon’s inclusion in the Big Ten is interesting. How has their performance this season contrasted with customary powerhouses?
Dr. Thompson: Oregon has seamlessly adjusted to the competition in the Big Ten, fuelled by a strong recruiting class and dynamic coaching. Unlike Ohio State and Michigan, who have had years of rivalry and experience in the conference, Oregon has brought a fresh outlook and style. their speed and offensive strategy have caught many teams off-guard.
Editor: That’s a great point. Speaking of strategy, what do you think oregon needs to do to maintain their undefeated run against a balanced Penn State team?
Dr. thompson: For Oregon, it’s crucial to establish their running game early. They’ll need to control the tempo and minimize turnovers. Defensively, they should focus on containing Penn State’s playmakers, especially in the passing game. It will be a game of adjustments, and Oregon’s coaching staff has shown they can make those in real-time.
Editor: Penn State has been solid this season as well. What are their strengths that Oregon should be wary of?
Dr. Thompson: Penn state boasts a strong defense, which has been a cornerstone of their success. They can disrupt the rhythm of opposing offenses, so Oregon’s offensive line will need to play exceptionally well. Additionally, their quarterback has been making decisive plays, so Oregon’s secondary must be vigilant. This matchup will really test each team’s adaptability to high-pressure situations.
Editor: Since this is a championship game, the atmosphere will be electric.How significant is the mental aspect for both teams?
Dr. Thompson: Absolutely critical! The mental game can frequently enough be the difference-maker in high-stakes matchups. For Oregon, maintaining focus and composure in this unfamiliar terrain is vital, especially as the top-ranked team. For Penn State, they must leverage their experience in these big moments to create an early lead and put pressure on Oregon.
Editor: As we wrap up, what does this championship game mean for the future of college football in the context of the Big Ten?
Dr. Thompson: This matchup could signal a shift in the balance of power within the Big Ten Conference. If Oregon succeeds, it might embolden other programs to invest more heavily in their football programs, seeing that the path to success is no longer strictly held by traditional schools like Michigan and Ohio State. It opens up the conversation about parity in college football, which could lead to even more unpredictable seasons ahead.
Editor: Dr. Thompson, thank you for your insights! It’s certainly an exciting time for college football, and I can’t wait to see how this championship plays out.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you! The countdown to the game is on, and I too am eagerly anticipating a thrilling matchup!