Penn State Football BOLD Predictions vs. Oregon Ducks in Big Ten Championship Game
Conference Championship Weekend is Here, and Penn State Football is part of the action.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. It’s the thrill of victory or the agony of defeat as the Big Ten Championship game takes center stage Saturday night.
This year, the matchup offers a fascinating clash between the undefeated Oregon Ducks, one of the conference’s newest members, and the surging Nittany Lions.
Oregon, led by head coach Dan Lanning, and quarterback Dillon Gabriel, has emerged as a powerhouse, building an offensive juggernaut that has dominated opponents all season.
On the other side stands Penn State, an 11-1 squad guided by 11th-year head coach James Franklin. The Nittany Lions weren’t expected to reach this stage, but a pivotal Michigan victory over Ohio State opened the door, and Penn State seized the opportunity. Now, Franklin’s team finds itself in control of its destiny, ready to cap a remarkable season with a championship.
3 bold predictions for Penn State heading into Saturday’s Game
Drew Allar and the Penn State Receivers Will Deliver Their Best Game Yet
If Penn State wants to emerge from Indianapolis with a victory, its passing game must step up—and this is the perfect stage to do so.
Quarterback Drew Allar has faced criticism for inconsistent performances this season, but with the return of a fully healthy Harrison Wallace III, the Nittany Lions’ receiving corps will have more options to stretch the field.
While Oregon’s defense will key in on tight end Tyler Warren, the added versatility and depth at receiver could finally spark Penn State’s most complete passing performance of the year. Expect Allar to rise to the occasion under the bright lights.
Oregon QB Dylan Gabriel Will Be Neutralized
Oregon’s Dylan Gabriel has been sensational, but Penn State’s elite front seven is up to the challenge. Led by standouts Abdul Carter and Dani Dennis-Sutton, the Nittany Lions’ pass rush has been relentless, and their secondary is anchored by Jaylen Reed—arguably one of the nation’s top safeties.
Gabriel will find his moments, but the Nittany Lions’ ability to generate pressure and force turnovers will disrupt his rhythm. Look for Penn State to keep Gabriel in check just enough to turn the tide in their favor.
Penn State Football Will Beat Oregon Decisively
Since their lone loss to Ohio State, James Franklin has embraced a more aggressive coaching style—whether through fake punts, fiery sideline exchanges, or bold offensive play-calling. The Nittany Lions have nothing to lose and everything to gain, and they’ll leave it all on the field Saturday.
Penn State boasts the nation’s fourth-ranked defense, combining speed, depth, and physicality. Meanwhile, an unpredictable and increasingly explosive offense will overwhelm Oregon, whose road schedule hasn’t truly tested them against a team as hungry as Penn State.
The Nittany Lions’ experience in challenging environments and their relentless pursuit of a championship will ultimately make the difference. Expect Penn State to finish the season on a high note—with a statement victory in Indianapolis.
MORE: A Deep Dive Into James Franklin’s Record in Big Games
A note to our readers; If you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may receive a commission
He has been recognized for his work as a photographer and has also contributed to various publications including PennLive and The Weather Channel.
Brad is an Air Force veteran, coach and competitive runner that grew up a Nittany Lions fan as his family is originally from the State College area.
His diverse skillset and experiences provide for interesting perspectives on the college football, and sports topics of the day.
- Is Penn State a College Football Blue Blood? The Case for the Nittany Lions - March 12, 2025
- Trace McSorley Returns to Penn State: Can He Help Drew Allar Reach the Next Level? - February 26, 2025
- Great to Good: The Crybaby Culture of College Football | KULP - February 19, 2025