No. 13 Penn State 4 1/2 Point Favorites Over Michigan

NFL News - October 21st, 2009 - Written by Scott

It's too early in the season to have a clear front runner for the Big Ten championship, but Saturday's game between No. 13 Penn State and Michigan could possibly eliminate one of these two teams' chances on getting the crown, according to the latest NCAA College Football Standings. The Nittany Lions, (6-1, 2-1) are one of only three teams with one loss behind undefeated Iowa. Penn State defeated Minnesota last weekend 20-0 for their second win in conference play. The Wolverines had a tune-up for this weekends showdown with Penn Sate and routed Delaware State 63-3. Michigan was handed a huge 46-17 loss by Penn State a year ago.

The Nittany Lions have been rolling on offense this year. They are led by quarterback Daryll Clark who has passed for 1,654 yards and 13 touchdowns this year. The rushing attack for Penn State has been just as consistent as their passing game. Evan Royster has been on a tear in his last three games. For the season, he has rushed for 641 yards and 4 touchdowns. The Nittany Lions are not lacking in the wide receiver position as they have 4 with over 200 yards. Derek Moye and Chaz Powell lead this group and have combined for 788 yards and 7 touchdowns.

Penn State's defense has been a tough obstacle for their opponents to overcome this year. They have only allowed 6 touchdowns all season and have given up only 3 points over their past two games. They will be challenged this weekend by a Michigan offense that can move the ball.

It appears as though Michigan will stick with their two quarterback rotation of Tate Forcier and Denard Robinson. Forcier is leading the team in passing with 1,027 yards and 9 touchdowns, while Robinson is a threat both on the ground and in the air. He has rushed for 273 yards and a team high 5 touchdowns. The Wolverines have a slew of running backs, including 7 who have passed the 100 yard mark. Carlos Brown leads the team with 336 yards and 3 touchdowns. Michigan will need to get their running game going against Penn State to prevent them from going exclusively through the air.

The Wolverines' defense has steadily improved throughout the season and is allowing just under 22 points per game. They will be challenged heavily by Penn State and can expect the Nittany Lions to pound the ball on the ground and use long drives to set up scoring opportunities.

BetUS Sportsbook shows the College Football Betting Lines favoring Penn State by 4 1/2 against Michigan.

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