UCLA Bruins at Penn State Nittany Lions Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 10/5/2024 12:00 PM EST
We have your UCLA Bruins at Penn State Nittany Lions prop betting and game preview needs covered as the UCLA Bruins hit the road to face the Penn State Nittany Lions.
UCLA Bruins at Penn State Nittany Lions Odds Info
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Best Moneyline Odds: UCLA Bruins +2800 (FanDuel) / Penn State Nittany Lions -8000 (DraftKings)
Best Spread Odds: -28.0 - UCLA Bruins -110 (DraftKings) / Penn State Nittany Lions -110 (DraftKings)
Best Total Odds: 45.0 - Under -110 (bet365) / 44.5 - Over -110 (Caesars)
Game Info
Date: 10/5/2024
Time: 12:00 PM EST
Location: Beaver Stadium (University Park, PA)
TV: FOX
UCLA Bruins at Penn State Nittany Lions Preview
The UCLA Bruins are set to face a formidable challenge as they travel to Beaver Stadium to take on the Penn State Nittany Lions. The Bruins, under first-year head coach DeShaun Foster, have struggled to find their footing this season, entering the matchup with a 1-3 record. Their lone victory came against Hawaii, while their losses have been marked by significant margins, including a 34-13 defeat at the hands of Oregon. UCLA's offense, led by quarterback Ethan Garbers, has been inconsistent, with Garbers completing just 57.3% of his passes and throwing six interceptions to only three touchdowns this season. The Bruins' ground game has been particularly ineffective, averaging a mere 57 rushing yards per game, which ranks them last in the Big Ten.
On the other side, Penn State is riding high with a 4-0 record and a recent rise to No. 7 in the national rankings following a convincing 21-7 victory over Illinois. The Nittany Lions have showcased a powerful running game, with running backs Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen combining for 196 rushing yards and two touchdowns against Illinois. Penn State's defense has been equally impressive, allowing just 219 total yards in their last outing and demonstrating their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks with seven sacks. Quarterback Drew Allar, while not at his best against Illinois, has been efficient overall, maintaining a turnover-free performance in their latest game.
As the Bruins prepare to face a Penn State team that has been dominant at home, they will need to overcome significant odds. The Nittany Lions have been nearly unbeatable in Beaver Stadium, especially in high-stakes matchups. With Penn State's defense proving to be a formidable force and UCLA's offensive struggles, the Bruins will need to find a way to break through a defense that has been stifling opponents all season. The game promises to be a test of resilience for UCLA, while Penn State will look to continue their march towards a potential playoff berth.
UCLA Bruins at Penn State Nittany Lions Pick: Total Points Under
As the UCLA Bruins prepare to face the Penn State Nittany Lions, the odds heavily favor a low-scoring affair, making the under a compelling pick. Penn State's defense has been a dominant force this season, as evidenced by their recent performance against Illinois, where they allowed just 219 total yards and only 25 rushing yards after the Illini's opening drive. The Nittany Lions' ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks was on full display with seven sacks and a critical interception, showcasing their capacity to stifle offensive production.
On the offensive side, while Penn State has been effective, their recent game against Illinois highlighted some inconsistencies, particularly in the passing game. Quarterback Drew Allar, despite maintaining a turnover-free game, managed only 135 passing yards, indicating a potential for a more conservative, ground-focused approach. This aligns with their powerful running game, which, while effective, tends to consume clock and limit scoring opportunities.
UCLA, on the other hand, has struggled offensively, particularly in the running game, averaging a mere 57 rushing yards per game, the lowest in the Big Ten. Quarterback Ethan Garbers has also faced challenges, with a completion rate of just 57.3% and more interceptions than touchdowns this season. These offensive struggles are likely to be exacerbated against a Penn State defense that has been nearly impenetrable at home.
Given these factors, the matchup is poised to be a defensive battle, with Penn State's formidable defense and UCLA's offensive woes setting the stage for a game that is unlikely to see high scoring. The Nittany Lions' ability to control the game tempo with their running attack further supports the case for the total points to fall under the projected line.