Can Penn State football possibly break through now? Our prediction vs Indiana Hoosiers

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Penn State football will be pressed to control a super-nova offense for the second straight week.

The Nittany Lions just got torched by the nation’s top wide receiver duo at Ohio State.

This Saturday they may face an even more formidable challenge at home. The Indiana Hoosiers lead the country in points per game (46.4) and are triggered by Heisman Trophy-candidate quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

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“Those two receivers they have in Indiana have more touchdowns than the Ohio State guys, so it doesn’t get any easier,” interim head coach Terry Smith said. “Very similar in their style and approach with RPO, play-action, take a shot.

“You know, it’s my job to get back more involved with the corner room to make more points of emphasis.”

Penn State football vs. Indiana prediction

The Nittany Lions may well come out inspired in Beaver Stadium and trade body blows with the nation’s No. 2 team.

But hanging in for four quarters will prove daunting.

How can the Lions possibly transform their disappointing pass rush and suddenly-shoddy pass coverage against this team?

That would be their only means of survival.

And their defense hasn’t looked the part since late September.

Penn State vs. Indiana scouting report

The Hoosiers may well be the most balanced team in the country.

While they have been overwhelming Big Ten teams on offense (55 points against Maryland, 56 vs. UCLA, 63 vs. Illinois), they also boast one of the most successful defenses.

They are ranked No. 3 nationally in scoring defense (allowing 10.8 points per game) and No. 4 in stopping the run.

The Lions counter with a steady run game but a neutered, even dysfunctional, passing attack.

They are not suited for victory unless they can force big mistakes and mine multiple turnovers.

Penn State vs. Indiana score prediction

Indiana 31, Penn State 20

Frank Bodani covers Penn State football for the York Daily Record and USA Today Network. Contact him at  fbodani@ydr.com and follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @YDRPennState.

This article originally appeared on York Daily Record: Penn State college football prediction vs Curt Cignetti, Indiana

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