CFB Pick ATS: Penn State Nittany Lions vs. West Virginia Mountaineers
The college football season kicks off with a highly anticipated matchup between the Penn State Nittany Lions and the West Virginia Mountaineers on Saturday, August 31st, at 12 noon EST. Hosted by West Virginia, this game promises to be a thrilling rematch, as both teams are coming off successful seasons and return a significant portion of their talent.
Penn State: Big Ten Contenders
Penn State enjoyed a strong 10-3 record last season, following an 11-2 performance in 2022. Their only regular-season losses came against conference rivals Ohio State and Michigan in closely contested matches. While they lost to Ole Miss in their bowl game, bowl games have become less indicative of overall team strength due to player opt-outs. With six returning offensive starters and seven returning defensive starters, Penn State aims to solidify their position as Big Ten contenders.
The addition of USC and UCLA to the Big Ten adds an extra layer of intrigue this season, with Penn State facing both teams in back-to-back weeks in October. This challenging schedule will be a true test of their capabilities.
West Virginia: Seeking Revenge
West Virginia finished last season with a 9-4 record, including a bowl victory over North Carolina. Two of their losses came against ranked opponents, Penn State and Oklahoma, in games that were not particularly close. However, with eight returning offensive starters and five returning defensive starters, they are poised to make another run this year.
This game holds extra significance for West Virginia as they seek revenge for last season’s 38-15 loss to Penn State. This will also be an important opportunity for them to start the season on a high note, especially considering their difficult schedule ahead.
Game Prediction and Betting Insights
Current betting lines favor Penn State by -10.5, with a total of 51.5 at BetOnline Sportsbook. While our model predicts a 33-21 win for Penn State based on last season’s statistics, the revenge factor and home-field advantage could narrow the margin.
Our Pick: West Virginia +12
We anticipate this game to be closer than last year’s encounter. West Virginia has the motivation to avenge their previous loss and the advantage of playing at home. With both teams returning key players, this game is likely to remain in doubt until the fourth quarter.
The line for this game varies among sportsbooks, with some offering Penn State -12. Therefore, shopping around for the best line is crucial for bettors.
Conclusion
The Penn State vs. West Virginia game is a must-watch for college football fans. The combination of revenge, returning talent, and a challenging conference landscape makes this game a compelling storyline in the early stages of the season!