Penn State vs. Kent State predictions, preview, live stream
The Penn State Nittany Lions will open their 2016 season up against Kent State on September 3.
Penn State will face off against Kent State at Beaver Stadium as they both open up their 2016 season. Penn State’s new quarterback, Trace McSorley, is set to lead this young Nittany Lions’ offense.
With Saquon Barkley looking to break out as the starter in Happy Valley, Penn State’s offense will be geared up to open the season with a bang. As a double-digit underdog, Kent State is looking to make their first victory a memorable one.
Both teams are looking to begin their journey to the top 25 with an early season win. If either hopes to get back on the winning path in college football, it will start Week 1.
Details for the game are below:
Date: Saturday, September 3
Start Time: 3:30 PM EST
Location: Happy Valley, PA
Stadium: Beaver Stadium
TV: Big Ten Network
Live Stream: BTN2Go
Keys to Victory
For Penn State, their young team needs to play like veterans. McSorley will begin his career as a starter for the Nittany Lions. If Penn State hopes to begin their journey back to the top 25, McSorley will need to shake his nerves early. He can’t expect to come into this game and be perfect, but when he makes mistakes he needs to forget about them quick. Penn State should rely mostly on their running back, Barkley, during this game. Barkley has already shown he’s a great NCAA player. Letting him control most of the offensive plays will let McSorley ease his way into the game.
On the defensive end, Penn State’s new defensive line will need to perform. They have only one returning starter, which means that none of this line is game day ready emotionally. Linebackers, Brandon Bell and Nyeem Wartman-White, will control this defense in hopes to encourage this young team.
For Kent State, they need to shut Penn State’s offense down. Barkley rushed for more than 1,000 yards last season while sharing carries. If Kent State wants any chance of conquering this underdog victory they’ll need to shut down Barkley first. Then, they’ll need to cause McSorley to feel uncomfortable and need to pass a lot. If they’re able to force him into mistakes early and kill his composer, then they should have a chance to take an early quarter lead and keep this Penn State team on their toes.
Prediction
Penn State is a double-digit favorite, and it’ll stay that way. This new young team in Happy Valley is geared for a strong start to the season. Barkley should start his sophomore campaign with a bang. A 100-yard rushing game for the Nittany Lions will be in store, and an easy win will be as well. Penn State should win this one by at least 14 points.
Final Score: Penn State 28, Kent State 14