:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62615199/usa_today_11728849.0.jpg)
Yesterday, the Penn State Nittany Lions found out their fate for bowl season. On New Year’s Day, the no. 12 Nittany Lions will battle no. 14 Kentucky in the VRBO Citrus Bowl. When this top-15 matchup helps ring in the new year, the Nittany Lions will be the team entering as the favorites.
Penn State has opened as a seven point favorite over Kentucky. It is not a surprise to see the Nittany Lions favored in the matchup. S&P+ team rankings have the Nittany Lions as the 11th best team in the country, while the Wildcats check in at 40th. Kentucky’s offense is also one of the worst in the country, ranking 92nd in S&P+ offensive efficiency.
Kentucky’s offense revolves around running back Benny Snell. The Wildcats have one of the worst passing attacks in the FBS, and are in trouble if Snell and the run game can not get going. Over the course of the final two months of the season Penn State’s defense was stout against the run and one of the best in the Big Ten, making this a matchup that favors the Nittany Lions.
Kickoff from Orlando is scheduled for 1 PM on January 1. If you are not attending the Citrus Bowl, you can watch the game on ABC.