Penn State at Rutgers: Pre-Game Analysis
Preview of Penn State vs Rutgers college football game. Analysis of team stats, key matchups, and what to watch.
Penn State at Rutgers: Pre-Game Analysis
Game Overview
The Penn State Nittany Lions travel to Piscataway to take on the Rutgers Scarlet Knights in a crucial Big Ten Conference matchup on November 29th, 2025, at SHI Stadium. This game marks another chapter in a series dominated by Penn State, but Rutgers will look to use their home-field advantage to attempt to close the gap in the historical record. The contest promises to be a battle between two teams with different offensive philosophies, making for an intriguing contest.
Key Statistical Matchup
The statistical battleground will center around offensive efficiency. Penn State’s offense, averaging 31.0 points per game, will look to exploit a Rutgers defense that will be tested. Penn State's rushing attack, gaining 163.82 yards per game, could be a key factor in controlling the clock and wearing down the Rutgers defense. Running back Kaytron Allen is a key player for Penn State, and his performance will be critical.
Rutgers, averaging 28.0 points per game, leans heavily on their passing game, averaging 250.82 passing yards per game. Quarterback Gavin Wimsatt will be tasked with navigating the Penn State secondary. Rutgers' ability to establish a balanced attack will be crucial. Rutgers averages 139.45 rushing yards per game, and will need to improve that number to keep the Penn State defense honest. The Scarlet Knights’ offensive line will need to provide Wimsatt with sufficient time to find receivers like Christian Dremel and deepen their playbook.
The total yardage differential also favors Rutgers, who averages 390.27 yards per game compared to Penn State's 331.91. However, Penn State's higher scoring output suggests their offense is more effective at converting yards into points.
What to Watch For
The performance of the Penn State defense will be a critical factor. They will need to contain the Rutgers passing attack and limit big plays. The play of Penn State’s defensive line against the Rutgers run game will also be key.
For Rutgers, the ability to protect the football and avoid turnovers will be paramount. Their success will hinge on their offensive line's performance and Wimsatt's ability to make smart decisions under pressure. Rutgers must also find a way to slow down Penn State's rushing attack to control the game's tempo.
Game Outlook
Based on current season statistics and historical data, Penn State enters this game as the favorite. Penn State's higher scoring average and dominant historical record suggest they will win. However, Rutgers' home-field advantage and a potent passing game provide them with an opportunity to upset the Nittany Lions. The game will likely hinge on which team can control the line of scrimmage and limit costly mistakes.