The Nittany Lions opened up as 2.5-point favorites at the sportsbook, dipped as low as -1, but have now leveled off at -2. TopBet bettors seem to like the spread for the Nittany Lions, with about 80% (at press, December 26) of the betting action on Penn State. As a favorite through the season, the Nittany Lions pulled in a 10-1 straight up and 7-4 ATS record. The Washington Huskies have not been an underdog all season, so we have to look at a historical trend from their ‘dog days, one that left them with a 1-4 SU and 2-3 ATS record. Register to bet and wager with your pick.
Betting Preview for the Washington Huskies vs PENN State Nittany Lions Fiesta Bowl Game on Dec 30 2017
Where: University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, AZ
When: Saturday, December 30 2017, 4:00 PM EST
Line: Washington Huskies (+2) vs PENN State Nittany Lions (-2) – view all NCAA Football lines
TV Broadcast: ESPN
Betting on the Washington Huskies +2 (10-2)
The Washington Huskies looking for a bowl win in Phoenix, as they take on the Penn State Nittany Lions in the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl. Both teams had successful seasons, going 10-2 respectively. Last season the Huskies were participants in the college football playoffs, and Penn State narrowly missed the playoffs in 2016. Look for this matchup to be one of the more entertaining games of the December 30th.
The Washington Huskies had a strong season. Junior quarterback Jake Browning, was solid again this year for the Huskies. Browning finished the season with 2544 yards passing, 18 touchdowns and five interceptions.
Offensively, the Huskies aren’t as explosive as they were last season, but good enough to get 10 wins. The Huskies are averaging 411 yards of offense per game this season.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Huskies have been stout all season. The team is allowing 277 yards and 14.5 points per game this season. Washington has been especially solid against the run this year. The Huskies are holding opposing runners to 92 yards on the ground per game.
Betting on the vs PENN State Nittany Lions -2 (10-2)
Penn State has to be a little heartbroken considering how they have fell just short of the playoff two years in a row. Despite missing the playoff, the team still has a game to play. Look for this to be Saquan Barkley’s last appearance at running back for Penn State in his career.
The Nittany Lion offense is led by Barkley, and his ability to make people miss in the open field, but his stats were a bit underwhelming, down the stretch of the season. Barkley finished the year with 199 carries for 1134 yards and 16 touchdowns.
On the defensive side, Penn State is allowing 15.5 points and 329 total yards per game this season. Look for the Nittany Lions to try limit Browning and the Huskies passing attack in this matchup.
Writer’s Prediction
Penn State and Washington are both talented teams, with above average defenses. The deciding factor in this matchup will be the play of the quarterbacks. If Penn State quarterback Todd McSorley can play like he has all year, the Nittany Lions will have the upper hand. The Nittany Lions will be looking to get Barkely involved in the offensive attack early. If he can get the ground game going; Penn State as a top tier college quarterback in Todd McSorley who can pick apart defenses at will. Washington is going to rely heavily on the talented arm of Jake Browning. Browning won’t be able to do it all against Penn State. Look for special teams specialist Dante Pettis to have a big game. If not, the Huskies are in for a long night. Pick: Penn State (-2.0)
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