Penn State vs Wisconsin Picks and Prediction – 10/26/2024

The undefeated Penn State Nittany Lions (6-0, 3-0) will head to Madison to take on the Wisconsin Badgers (5-2, 3-1). Penn State is coming off a thrilling 33-30 overtime victory against USC, while Wisconsin secured a convincing 23-3 win over Northwestern. This Big Ten matchup will have significant implications for both teams’ conference standings. Dominate the college scene with our College Football picks.

Penn State's offense has been powered by quarterback Drew Allar, who has thrown for 1,492 yards with 11 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. Running back Nicholas Singleton has rushed for 434 yards and 3 touchdowns, while tight end Theo Warren leads the team with 513 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns. The Lions' offense averages 28.5 points per game, and they'll look to push that number against a Wisconsin defense that has shown vulnerability at times.

Defensively, Penn State has been solid, allowing just 18.2 points per game. Safety Jalen Reed leads the team with 39 tackles, 1 interception, and 1 forced fumble. The defense has 14 sacks, with defensive end Dani Dennis-Sutton contributing 2 sacks and 14 total tackles. With a balanced pass defense and an effective rush defense, they’ll aim to shut down Wisconsin’s offense.

Wisconsin’s offense is centered around running back Taji Walker, who has rushed for 565 yards and 9 touchdowns on the season. Quarterback Braedyn Locke has been efficient, throwing for 1,064 yards with 7 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. However, the Badgers' offense has struggled at times, particularly in losses against top teams like Alabama and USC. The Badgers average 29.1 points per game, and the ability to establish the run will be key against Penn State's stout defensive front.

On defense, Wisconsin allows just 19.7 points per game. Linebacker Jordan Thomas leads the team with 43 tackles and 1 sack, while safety Preston Zachman has 2 interceptions. The Badgers’ defense will need to step up, particularly against Penn State's balanced offensive attack. Wisconsin has recorded 12 sacks this season, but putting pressure on Allar and forcing turnovers will be essential if they hope to pull off the upset at home.

The Nittany Lions are in great form, and balance on both sides of the ball gives them a significant advantage over Wisconsin. The Badgers will struggle to contain Penn State’s offensive weapons, and the offense may not find enough success against Penn State's tough defense. Final Score Prediction: Penn State wins and covers 31-1