Penn State Vs. Northwestern Preview, Prediction: Is Penn State Favored Over Northwestern?

Penn State is looking for their third 5-0 start in the past four seasons. They host Northwestern, who has yet to win in U.S. and is the second-lowest ranked Power 5 team in ESPN College Football Power Index. The game will set up the Big Ten's first marquee matchup between Penn State and Michigan on Oct. 15.

Penn State is looking for their third 5-0 start in the past four seasons. They host Northwestern, who has yet to win in U.S. and is the second-lowest ranked Power 5 team in ESPN College Football Power Index. The game should give Penn State another opportunity to rotate players and develop more depth.

Penn State is 4-0 for the 39th time in its history and the sixth time under coach James Franklin. The Lions have two road wins over Power 5 teams. Last week, they beat Central Michigan 33-14. Northwestern is a Big Ten team. They haven't won at Beaver Stadium since 2014. Penn State needs to win to show its national rise and to fulfill its half of the unbeaten meeting with Michigan.

Central Michigan held Nicholas Singleton to 12 carries, 42 yards. Northwestern is going to try to do the same thing.

James Franklin hasn't been able to get Drew Allar yet. Saturday's game could be a good place to start.

Penn State is the favorite against Northwestern. PJ Mustipher is rounding into his 2021 form.

Peter Skoronski is a left tackle for the Wildcats. Franklin recruited him out of high school.

Hull and Barkley are the only FBS players since 2000 to record more than 350 rushing yards and 300 receiving yards through their first four games. Hull also leads the nation with 681 yards from scrimmage.

Penn State is preparing for a game against Northwestern. Northwestern's Bryce Gallagher is a prolific tackler.

Penn State will run a mostly austere game plan against Northwestern. Northwestern runs a lot of plays and has plenty of young talent. The Lions' defense will be active.