Michigan vs. Penn State: Preview, odds, and predictions
Last week was no. 3 Michigan’s smallest margin of victory this season to date. They “only” won by 28 points against Purdue. This week presents the Wolverines’ (9-0, 6-0 Big Ten) first game against a ranked opponent, as they hit the road to face no. 10 Penn State (5-1, 8-1 Big Ten). Check out Michigan sportsbook promo codes on FanDuel, it’s a game college football bettors do not want to miss.
Below you will find odds for this game, courtesy of BetMGM. See our BetMGM review for a complete breakdown of what you can expect there. Beyond the odds, check out our preview and best bets for this much anticipated game.
The Connor Stalions saga continues to produce headlines, even after Stalions resigned as a Michigan staffer. As for this game, it presents the Wolverines’ toughest test thus far by a longshot. Michigan has played the 84th toughest schedule in the country so far, though their remaining schedule ranks as the second most difficult.
In last season’s matchup in Ann Arbor, which also featured both teams ranked in the top 10, the Wolverines roughed up the Nittany Lions to the tune of 418 rushing yards. Penn State is much improved in that area this season, as their defense leads all Power Five teams in rushing defense. But if Michigan can stay focused for a few hours on Saturday, they have a great chance to come away with a big win.
Most people are aware of the historic pace Michigan’s defense is currently on. They are allowing just 6.7 points per game. But Penn State’s defense is not far behind. They currently rank second in the country (behind Michigan) in yards allowed per game, and third in points per game allowed.
How the Nittany Lions manage to put points on the board is another story. But their defense is elite and should help keep the score close, at the very least.
Michigan scored 41 points on their own in last season’s meeting. But don’t overthink this one. Michigan has dominated inferior opponents and will face their first real test. Penn State has struggled offensively and will go against an historically good defense. With two elite defenses, this number at FanDuel is too big.
It is surprising that DraftKings has this prop set so low. After rushing for at least 73 yards in each of his first five games, Corum has not reached that number in any of his past four. Plus, Penn State is coming off a win over Maryland where they gave up minus-49 rushing yards. Asking Corum to reach this total is asking for too much.
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