Paul Finebaum highlights the stakes in the upcoming showdown between No. 3 Penn State and No. 4 Ohio State, focusing on the opportunity for James Franklin to change his narrative. The Nittany Lions are a home underdog for the 11th time under Franklin, who has a mixed record against ranked teams, particularly Ohio State, where his performance has been lacking historically. Finebaum notes that Franklin’s ability to snap this losing streak could significantly improve his coaching reputation, while Ryan Day faces pressure to secure a quality win given Ohio State's previous losses.

By the Numbers
  • James Franklin is 1-9 against Ohio State.
  • The Buckeyes have won 7 straight games against the Nittany Lions.
Yes, But

While Franklin's ability to win big games is under scrutiny, Day's coaching record is also challenged by recent losses, highlighting vulnerabilities on both sides.

State of Play
  • Penn State aims to capitalize on Ohio State's offensive line issues.
  • Franklin's previous performance against top 10 teams is 3-17, suggesting a significant challenge ahead.
What's Next

Depending on the outcome, Franklin could shift perceptions of his coaching, while a loss might place Day's squad in a precarious position regarding playoffs, especially with Michigan looming on the schedule.

Bottom Line

This matchup is crucial for both coaches, with Franklin seeking redemption and Day needing a strong win to solidify his team's playoff hopes. The game could redefine reputations in college football.