Big Ten football: Predicting the final 2022 standings

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STATE COLLEGE, PA – NOVEMBER 20: Parker Washington #3 of the Penn State Nittany Lions reacts after catching a pass for a touchdown against Tyshon Fogg #8 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the second half at Beaver Stadium on November 20, 2021 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

3. Penn State

Now it is true that Penn State under-performed in 2021 after the injury of Sean Clifford, but the start of the season was still decent, and I believe that PSU can get back to that level. From years 3-6 of the James Franklin era, Penn State had four straight 9-plus win seasons, three 11-win seasons, two NY6 wins, and a conference title.

I am not saying Penn State will win the conference or play in an NY6 bowl this season; I don’t think Penn State will be nationally competitive for another year or two. However, if the Nittany Lions’ offensive line plays average, this team wins nine games. Sean Clifford brings in a ton of experience and leadership, but Penn State has options if the sixth-year quarterback doesn’t work out.

Manny Diaz, the new defensive coordinator, was a home run hire for James Franklin and should spruce up the Penn State defense to a competitive level. At the end of the day, Penn State’s record will likely come down to two games: at Auburn and Michigan State.

If Penn State beats Auburn and MSU, there is a good chance that the only two losses PSU suffers are at Michigan and Ohio State. If Penn State loses one or both, 8-4/9-3 is the likely outcome. Because of their inconsistency, I am giving Penn State three losses in the coming year–though I could see anything from 8-4 to 10-2 being realistic.

Record: 9-3; losses at Auburn, Michigan, and Ohio State

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