College Football Game Picks: Week 11
Heading into Week 11 of College Football, there are some exciting matchups to preview. So, let’s take a look.
No. 6 Michigan at Penn State
After snapping a three-game losing streak by beating Maryland on the road, Penn State returns to Happy Valley to take on the No. 6 Michigan Wolverines.
Michigan is 8-1, with its only loss being against a ranked Michigan State. Penn State, meanwhile, is 6-3 with a 2-2 record against ranked teams. This matchup will have significant bowl game implications.
Penn State’s defense is among the best in the nation and has improved its run defense, which could limit Michigan’s running game. The Wolverines currently have the most rushing yards in the Big Ten.
With Sean Clifford playing well and a talented receiving unit featuring Jahan Dotson, the Nittany Lions should be able to move the ball with less difficulty. Michigan may have the better record, but Penn State has what it needs to beat Michigan at home with an electrifying crowd.
Prediction: Penn State 21, Michigan 17
No. 11 Texas A&M at No. 15 Ole Miss
With Oxford receiving a visit from College Gameday, the Ole Miss crowd will be fired up and ready for the Aggies of Texas A&M.
The red-hot Aggies storm into Oxford on a four-game win streak, including wins over Alabama and Auburn.
Led by Heisman candidate Matt Corral, the Rebels have won two of their last three games, with the loss being against Auburn.
Although the talented Ole Miss Rebels are home and will have an electric home SEC crowd, Texas A&M is arguably the hottest team in America and is making a push for the College Football Playoff.
Prediction: Texas A&M 28, Ole Miss 20
No. 16 NC State at No. 12 Wake Forest
Wake Forest may have lost to North Carolina, but let’s remember that the Demon Deacons still put up 55 points, which was above their 44.67 points per game average.
The Wake Forest offense is as dynamic as they come, with quarterback Sam Hartman having thrown 27 touchdowns so far.
NC State, on the other hand, averages 31.11 points per game. This game will likely be an offensive shootout between two of the best teams in the ACC, with defense not being much of a factor. Wake Forest is the better team and will likely prevail.
Prediction: Wake Forest 52, NC State 41
No. 19 Purdue at No. 4 Ohio State
Ohio State is firing on all cylinders and performing up to expectations. Purdue, meanwhile, is a scary opponent for any top-five team, as the Boilermakers have defeated both Iowa and Michigan State while those schools were in that category.
The Buckeyes are 8-1, with their only loss coming against Oregon. In the past two weeks, Ohio State narrowly avoided upsets against Penn State and Nebraska.
Ohio State has looked vulnerable lately, but it should be alert and prepared for a dangerous Purdue team.
Prediction: Ohio State 31, Purdue 17.
Nolan Wick is a first-year student majoring in journalism. To contact him, email nhw5046@psu.edu.
