Penn State at Pittsburgh 2018: Prediction Roundtable

Penn State faces a tough road test this week against an old rival. 

Last week didn’t go exactly as planned for Penn State. Favored by three touchdowns over Appalachian State, the Nittany Lions found themselves down late in the game and had to use overtime to dispose of the Mountaineers. Up next is a rivalry game in a tough environment.

Penn State had the week to regroup and work on weaknesses that were clearly exposed in Week 1 and now has to get ready to face Pitt. The Panthers looked strong in a big win over Albany last week.

This year’s game will mark the third consecutive meeting between the in-state schools.

The Nittany Lions traveled to Heinz Field in 2016 and limped away with a harmful loss. They found themselves down two touchdowns at halftime and came up short on a comeback effort.

That loss in 2016 ultimately played a huge role in keeping Penn State out of the College Football Playoff. The Nittany Lions will want to forget about 2016 and think more about last season’s win at home over the Panthers.

Penn State fans are certainly on edge heading into the Week 2 matchup at Pitt. Road games are always tough, particularly when a rival is involved. Add in the fact that kickoff isn’t until 8:00 p.m. and the atmosphere in Heinz Field will be electric.

A silver lining for Penn State is the fact that its fanbase is one of the best traveling fanbases in the country, and there’s a large alumni group in the Pittsburgh Area.

Saturday won’t be easy, but the Nittany Lions are favored over the Panthers and should find a way to improve to 2-0 on the season.

There’s sure to be tons of action. Find out what our staff thinks will happen Saturday night under the bright lights in Pittsburgh.