Matchup History
As you well know, the winner of this matchup will be awarded the Governor’s Victory Bell. The Tradition has been in place since 1993. The two have met 13 times since then with Penn State currently leading the rivalry 8-5. However, this time around the Gophers are off to red hot a 3-0 start while Penn State is coming in at 500 with a 2-2 record. The Gophers have not faced a fellow Big Ten opponent yet this year, but all signs point a hard fought Minnesota upset – all signs, except for the odds themselves.
Behind the Odds
In an interesting twist, Penn State are the favored team in this matchup. Not only do they have two more losses, but they’ve also tallied up 131 points against to Minnesota’s 75. Now, with that said, the Nittany Lions unquestionably have had the tougher schedule to start the year. Especially last week, when they took one on the chin from the number four ranked Michigan Wolverines 49-10. Even so, the bookmakers have not been swayed. The NCAA betting line favors Penn State, but just barely by three points.
Minneosta’s Advantage
The Gopher’s solid start has been a team effort, but if we had to choose a player or two that have stood out, you’d have to go with running back Rodney Smith and wideout Drew Wolitarsky. These two have made the Minny offense an absolute force. Mitch Leidner can put total faith in his back and through the air and that’s a rare thing these days. Smith, who has filled in for the injured Shannon Brooks, is tied for second in the conference with five touchdowns, while Wolitarsky sits sixth among receivers with 252 yards through just three games.
Penn State’s Advantage
As mentioned, Penn State has had a tough bill in front of them to begin the year. They’ve faced some pretty quality teams thus far and should now be well prepped for this game. With that said, while the team is only 2-2, they have had some bright spots. Saquon Barkley is tied for second among running backs in the NCAA with six touchdowns and Trace McSorley is second in the conference with five passing touchdowns. Then, on top of all of that, Penn State needs this game to remain competitive this season. In a way, it’s kind of a must win.
Either way you slice it, this game has the makings of another great battle. With the Bell on the line as well, the odds makers prefer Penn State to take home their fifth victory in six years.