SMU Mustangs (11-2) vs. Penn State Nittany Lions (11-2)
SMU Mustangs vs. Penn State Nittany Lions December 21 2024 – The NCAAF playoffs are heating up with the face-off between the SMU Mustangs and the Penn State Nittany Lions in the first round. Both teams got into this match with a win-loss record of 11:2 and notable offensive and defensive capabilities during the regular season. Penn State’s territorial supremacy at Beaver Stadium and SMU’s street dominance will be on the line in this game, and that’s where fans as well as punters, should pay attention to this matchup.
SMU Mustangs vs. Penn State Nittany Lions December 21 2024 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 21, 2024, at 12:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Beaver Stadium, University Park, Pennsylvania |
| TV: | TNT/Max |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
SMU Mustangs vs. Penn State Nittany Lions Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| SMU | +260 | +8.5 (-110) | 54.5 Over -105 |
| Penn State | -320 | -8.5 (-110) | 54.5 Under -115 |
Penn State -8.5 spread implies that they are almost unbeatable at home and for dogs, the SMU +260 money line is equally generous. In fact, the combined total of 54.5 points indicates that there could be a free-for-all of sorts. Given the recent scoring exploits of both teams, the likely bettors will go for the OVER in the total score since the respective attacks are manned by punchy quarterbacks.
Kevin Jennings QB vs. Drew Allar QB
Kevin Jennings has proven to be consistent and reliable in SMU as he has able to pass for 3,050 yards while getting 22 passing touchdowns with about 66% of his passes being completed. While his longest pass completion reached an impressive distance of 87 yards but he completed eight interceptions that indicate he could be unreliable at times. Jennings has to make sure he does not turn over the ball, otherwise SMU will not stand a chance against Penn state’s defense.
Drew Allar, the successor of James Franklin, on the other hand, has 2,894 yards under his belt along with an astonishing 69.1% of passes completed. He is defined as an efficient quarterback as he has a quarterback rating of 161.2 and also has contributed greatly for the Nittany Lions in the passing game. However, the 11 sacks he has taken hint at a weakness in his game that could be exploited by the SMU Mustangs defense.
SMU Relies on Offensive Versatility
SMU’s offense is effective for its equal measure, and running back Brashard Smith illustrates that with his 1,270 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. Roderick Daniels Jr. at wide receiver also provides a downfield threat with 599 yards receiving. Although SMU did narrowly lose to Clemson 31-34 in its last match, their convincing victories against California 38-6 and Virginia 33-7, demonstrate their ability to win games from all positions.
Penn State Excels at Home
Penn State enters this match with confidence, even with their Oregon game ending at 37-45. Wide Receiver Tyler Warren had a breakout year as he racked up 1,062 receiving yards, while Running back Nicholas Singleton complemented his efforts with 838 rushing yards and 7 rushing touchdowns to his name. At Beaver Stadium, Penn State ruthlessly defeated Maryland by 44-7 and Purdue by 49-10, proving their potential to conquer all at the stadium.
SMU Mustangs Betting Trends
SMU is 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games, reflecting their competitiveness. Their 10-0 SU record on the road this season underscores their resilience, but a 1-5 ATS mark in December raises concerns about their postseason reliability.
Penn State Nittany Lions Betting Trends
Penn State is 8-1 SU in December games, showcasing their ability to thrive late in the season. Their OVER streak (4 of the last 5 games) aligns with their offensive explosiveness, and their 14-2 SU record at home positions them as strong favorites.
SMU Mustangs vs. Penn State Nittany Lions Betting Previews
This contest sees SMU looking to convert its road strength against Penn State’s home strength. The Mustangs’ offense possesses the threat to compete with the Nittany Lions, but their widespread offense combined with their stronger defense surely tips the odds in their favor. SMU covering the spread seems to be the best option, while both teams would manage to score enough points for the OVER on 54.5 to sail through.
Betting on Brashard Smith’s rushing yards or Tyler Warren’s receiving touchdowns should be prop bets worth considering. Although SMU are dangerous and unpredictable as underdogs, their strength will be tested against a strong all-round defensive and on the road Penn State which should see them progress.
Score Prediction: Penn State Nittany Lions 35, SMU Mustangs 28.
