College football Week 10 preview highlights a pivotal question: who needs a win more, Ryan Day or James Franklin? This matchup is not just another game; it carries significant implications for both head coaches and their respective programs.
Fans have witnessed several thrilling top-five matchups this season, with each game delivering on expectations. Alabama’s narrow 41-34 victory over Georgia in Week 5, Oregon’s dramatic 32-31 win against Ohio State in Week 7, and Georgia’s solid 30-15 win over Texas in Week 8 stand out as highlights.
This weekend, another high-stakes clash is set in Happy Valley as No. 3 Penn State faces off against No. 4 Ohio State in a crucial Big Ten battle (Noon ET on FOX and the FOX Sports App).
Laken Litman: The spotlight is on Ryan Day.
For Ohio State, this season is a make-or-break scenario. Day has effectively utilized the transfer portal, securing veteran players who opted to return instead of heading to the NFL, and has welcomed Chip Kelly as the offensive coordinator. With high expectations, another loss would be a bitter pill for the Buckeyes to swallow.
Michael Cohen: The pressure is undeniably on Day. It has been nearly four years since Ohio State last made it to the Big Ten Championship game, a long wait for a program with such high standards. After already suffering a conference loss to Oregon, Day cannot afford another defeat, especially against the Nittany Lions. A loss on Saturday would severely hinder Ohio State’s chances of contending for the Big Ten title, given that two of the unbeaten teams ahead would hold tiebreakers over them. While a path to the national title remains, the stakes for Day have never been higher.
RJ Young: Ryan Day is indeed in the hot seat.
Ohio State has strategically built a formidable roster capable of not only winning but doing so impressively. Day has retained key players from last year’s squad, such as Cody Simon and Emeka Egbuka, while also bringing in impactful transfers like Quinshon Judkins. Handing off playcalling to Chip Kelly, Day has reinforced a coaching staff focused on three primary objectives: defeat Michigan, clinch the Big Ten Championship, and secure the national title. A loss to Penn State would extend a troubling streak of four years without a conference title.
James Franklin, on the other hand, has faced a daunting challenge against Ohio State, holding a disappointing 1-9 record against them since 2016. A victory this weekend could not only reshape the narrative around the undefeated Nittany Lions but also reignite hope for their first national title since 1986.
What must Ohio State do to secure a win at Beaver Stadium?
RJ: Ohio State needs to be explosive. Utilizing Will Howard’s ability to connect with standout receivers like Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka will be crucial. If the Buckeyes play the same high-scoring football they showcased in their first five games, where they averaged 46 points and rushed for 222 yards, they will pose a significant challenge for Penn State. However, with left tackle Josh Simmons out, Ohio State must innovate their running game to keep the Nittany Lions on their toes.
Michael: The Buckeyes’ defense, led by Jim Knowles, has critical tasks ahead. They must pressure the quarterback effectively, especially if the Nittany Lions rely on an injured Drew Allar or an inexperienced Beau Pribula. Additionally, maintaining discipline against Penn State’s unique offensive strategies will be vital for success.
What must Penn State do to defeat Ohio State, marking their first victory over the Buckeyes since 2016?
RJ: Penn State should focus on their ground game. Utilizing the talents of Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton, one of the country’s top running back duos, can help exploit Ohio State’s vulnerabilities against strong rushing attacks. The Buckeyes have shown weaknesses in this area, as evidenced by their struggles against Oregon. In the passing game, targeting Denzel Burke and Davison Igbinosun could yield favorable matchups for the Nittany Lions, potentially deciding the game.
Regardless of which quarterback takes the field, the Nittany Lions face a challenging task. If Pribula is under center, they must avoid falling behind early against a formidable opponent.
How will the outcome of this game affect the College Football Playoff landscape?
Laken: A loss for Ohio State would mark their second defeat of the season, following a close loss to Oregon. While two-loss teams can still make the College Football Playoff, the Buckeyes would prefer to avoid that scenario. In contrast, Penn State remains unbeaten and is well-positioned for a playoff spot, even with a single loss, given their manageable remaining schedule against teams like Washington and Maryland.
Regardless of the outcome, both teams still have a path to the College Football Playoff.
RJ: This game will undoubtedly shake up the rankings, but both teams have strong playoff prospects. Even with a loss, Penn State’s path to an 11-1 record remains likely. If Ohio State can secure a win against an undefeated Indiana later this season, it could bolster their playoff resume significantly. However, both teams must secure a victory this weekend to maintain their chances of competing for the College Football Playoff.
Michael: For Penn State, avoiding any slip-ups in their final stretch will be crucial. A victory against Ohio State could solidify their playoff aspirations, especially in this expanded playoff format. Conversely, if Franklin’s team loses but wins out the rest of the season, they are still likely to be playoff contenders. This crucial matchup provides Penn State a chance to play without the burden of expectations.
The situation is more complex for Ohio State. With a recent loss to Oregon and a non-conference schedule that lacked strength, they currently lack a win against a ranked opponent. A victory over Penn State could change that narrative and provide a significant boost ahead of their upcoming game against Indiana. However, a loss would place them in a precarious position, with little room for error as they approach their final games of the season.
