The College Football Playoff continues with the Orange Bowl featuring the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (13-1) against the Penn State Nittany Lions (13-2). Notre Dame opened as a -1.5 favorite. The game will take place on Thursday, January 9, at 7:30 p.m. ET at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, and will be broadcast on ESPN.
Opening Odds Overview:
Point Spread: Notre Dame -1.5, Penn State +1.5.
Moneyline: Notre Dame -120, Penn State +100.
Over/Under: Initially set at 46.5 points.
Notre Dame secured its place in the semifinal by defeating Georgia in the Sugar Bowl, with its physical defense being a decisive factor. A key moment came just before halftime when Notre Dame’s defense forced a strip sack, leading to a score that shifted momentum. Their defense continued to dominate in the second half, aided by a special teams touchdown. Notre Dame’s linebackers and defensive line are considered a strong match for Penn State’s offense.
Penn State reached this stage after beating Boise State 31-14 in the Fiesta Bowl. While the score suggests a comfortable win, Boise State had opportunities to keep the game competitive. Penn State’s defense stood out, particularly in containing a strong running back to a season-low average. However, the Nittany Lions have shown vulnerabilities against physical offensive lines, which Notre Dame could exploit.
Notre Dame’s rushing attack has struggled in the playoffs, aside from a standout 98-yard touchdown run against Indiana. Penn State’s defense has been strong against the run when they can physically dominate the line of scrimmage. The matchup pits Notre Dame’s physical style against Penn State’s adaptable but occasionally inconsistent defense.
The winner of this game will advance to the national championship to face the victor of the Cotton Bowl matchup between Ohio State and Texas.
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postseason action.