Penn State Football: Predictions for the Citrus Bowl

3 of 5

STATE COLLEGE, PA – NOVEMBER 24: DeAndre Thompkins #3 of the Penn State Nittany Lions is tackled by Antwaine Richardson #20 of the Maryland Terrapins during the first half at Beaver Stadium on November 24, 2018 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

Collin Wieder, Co-Site Expert

Double-digit wins are for the taking in the Citrus Bowl. This offense hasn’t been consistent, but it has been explosive. In what’s guaranteed to be the final game in Trace McSorley’s illustrious career, he’ll make enough plays against Kentucky’s stout defense. The greatest passer in Penn State’s history will be the healthiest he’s been in a while and throw the ball more accurately than he has all year.

On the other side, the defense has to stop fantastic running back Benny Snell. He’s been one of the top backs in the nation throughout his career. He is devastating either taking a handoff and blasting defenders out of the way or taking the direct snap as the wildcat QB and taking off for big gains. Penn State’s young, and ever-progressing front seven has come a long way this year.

Taking the lead from Yetur Gross-Matos, Shareef Miller, Micah Parsons, etcetera, this group can stifle him and force Terry Wilson to beat them with his arm, which he’s not done much of the year.

I’m picking Penn State to finish out the season the right way, beating the Kentucky Wildcats in the Citrus Bowl. The Nittany Lions just have too many weapons on offense. And the defense will force the Wildcats into passing situations, which is not their strong suit. PSU’s run defense has played tough all year, giving up a few big plays here and there. I think the defense will limit Benny Snell enough and hang on for the win.

Penn State 28
Kentucky 20

Home/Penn State Football