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Big Ten Predictions: Picks against the spread for Week 7

By Barry Leonard Jr.

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Sep 19, 2015; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Christian Hackenberg (14) looks to throw a pass during the game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

  • Date: Saturday, October 17, 2015
  • Time: 8:00 PM Eastern
  • Location: Columbus, OH
  • TV Channel: ABC
  • Spread: Ohio State -17
  • Over/Under Total: 47

The nightcap in the Big Ten on Saturday is a battle of two teams with long-standing traditions. The conference will be on display for the entire nation to see thanks to the national broadcast on ABC. Ohio State is the top-ranked team in the land and is always tough inside of Ohio Stadium. Saturday night is sure to be another electric atmosphere with the crowd planning to wear black to go with the team’s all black uniforms.

Though the record is perfect, the football hasn’t been in Columbus. The Buckeyes have struggled and seem to lack an identity, as some are not sure that head coach Urban Meyer has made the correct decision in starting Cardale Jones at quarterback.

Although the passing game hasn’t been great, the rushing attack behind Ezekiel Elliott has been. He’s tough to stop and has already proven the ability to shoulder the load on offense. Ohio State is loaded with talent on defense and will make things tough on Penn State.

The Nittany Lions have also struggled to find an identity on offense. Offensive coordinator John Donovan has been highly criticized for his play-calling. Junior quarterback Christian Hackenberg, who was once thought of as the top draft pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, has struggled to find a rhythm over the past two seasons.

However, Hackenberg is coming off his best performance of the season after accounting for four total touchdowns last week against Indiana. He was finally able to throw the ball downfield and make use of his talented and fast wide receivers.

The offensive line, which has been porous all season, could really struggle against Ohio State’s tough front seven. Luckily, Penn State boasts a top defense of its own, led by a dominating defensive line. Defensive end Carl Nassib has come out of nowhere to lead the nation in sacks and is a complete menace to opposing offenses.

The key to this game will be if Penn State’s freshman running back Saquon Barkley is able to play or not. If the dynamic playmaker is able to go, expect the score to be a lot closer.

This line has moved down a bit during the week, as it’s now under 20 points. I think Penn State winning this game is too much to ask. However, the defense will keep things a lot closer than the line suggests. Ohio State wins outright, but take the points with the Nittany Lions.

Next: 50 Greatest College Football Rivalries of All-Time

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