| MATCHUP | Penn State Nittany Lions | Michigan Wolverines |
|---|---|---|
| Team Records | 3-3 | 3-2 |
| Spread | +7 -115 | -7 -105 |
| Moneyline | +210 | -258 |
| Total | Over 42.5 (-112) | Under 42.5 (-108) |
| Where | Michigan Stadium, Ann Arbor, MI | |
| When | Saturday, October 17, 2026 | |
| Time | 03:30 PM EDT | |
| TV | CBS | |
Penn State Nittany Lions Betting Preview
The Penn State Nittany Lions enter Saturday’s matchup with a 3-3 overall record (2-2 record at home, 1-1 mark on the road). The Nittany Lions have struggled to find consistency this season, which could clearly be seen in recent losses to Wisconsin, Northwestern and the USC Trojans.The Penn State offense has been respectable through six games played in 2026. The Nittany Lions are averaging 30.5 points per game while generating 392.8 total yards per contest. Penn State has accumulated 251.2 passing yards and 141.7 rushing yards per game this season.
Shifting our focus to the defensive side of the football, Penn State has allowed only 18.5 points per game (29th in FBS) while surrendering 315.7 total yards per contest. Examining the data just presented more closely, the Nittany Lions have been excellent defending the pass, allowing just 149.8 passing yards per game which ranks fifth in the nation.
Through six games played in 2026, quarterback Rocco Becht has compiled 1,397 passing yards, 11 passing touchdowns, 52 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown. Junior running back James Peoples has tallied 232 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns, while talented wide receiver Chase Sowell has accumulated 23 receptions, 359 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns.
Michigan Wolverines Betting Preview
The Michigan Wolverines enter Saturday’s contest with a 3-2 overall record (3-1 record at home, 0-1 mark on the road). Michigan is coming off a disappointing 20-14 loss to the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the team’s most recent game.The Michigan offense has struggled through five games played in 2026. The Wolverines are averaging only 23.0 points per game while generating 315.8 total yards per contest. Michigan has accumulated 180.8 passing yards and 135.0 rushing yards per game this season.
Defensively, Michigan has been one of the best teams in the nation. The Wolverines are allowing only 15.8 points and 241.4 total yards per game. Michigan currently ranks fifth nationally in passing defense, allowing only 146.8 passing yards per game, while surrendering just 94.6 rushing yards per contest.
Quarterback Bryce Underwood has compiled 881 passing yards, five passing touchdowns and four interceptions. Running back Jordan Marshall has amassed 244 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns. Wide receiver J.J. Buchanan has been Michigan’s top receiving threat, accumulating 446 receiving yards and four receiving touchdowns.
Why the Penn State Nittany Lions will win.
• Quarterback play. Rocco Becht has thrown for 1,397 yards, 11 touchdowns, 52 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown.• Ability to win on the road. Penn State has played competitive football away from home, amassing a 1-1 road record this season.
• Passing attack. The Nittany Lions are averaging 251.2 passing yards per game.
• Pass defense. The Penn State Nittany Lions are allowing opponents just 149.8 passing yards per game which ranks fifth in the nation.
Why the Michigan Wolverines will win.
• Home field advantage. The Wolverines will play this game at Michigan Stadium.• Defensive dominance. Michigan ranks third nationally in total defense, allowing only 241.4 total yards per game.
• Scoring defense. The Wolverines are surrendering only 15.8 points per contest.
• Defensive balance. Michigan is allowing only 146.8 passing yards and 94.6 rushing yards per game.
Penn State vs. Michigan Prediction
In my opinion, the way to go in this matchup is the total rather than a side. Why? Both teams have struggled offensively for much of the season, particularly Michigan. The Wolverines are averaging only 23 points per game while ranking 120th nationally in total offense. Meanwhile, Penn State has been inconsistent offensively converting only 36.1% of the team’s third down opportunities.Just as important, both defenses have been outstanding. Michigan ranks third nationally in total defense, fifth in passing defense and allows only 15.8 points per game. Penn State has also been excellent defensively, surrendering only 18.5 points per contest while allowing fewer than 150 passing yards per game. I envision a contest where both defenses limit overall offensive production. points are at a premium. With that said, I am backing under 43.5 points in this game.