The stage is set for a defensive battle between Penn State and Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl. The first team to 20 points could claim the national championship, making each quarter crucial. Both teams have been stout on defense, with Penn State allowing just 24 points through two playoff games.
Penn State’s defense has shown resilience, containing All-America running back Ashton Jeanty to a season-low 104 yards against Boise State. Meanwhile, Notre Dame held Georgia to 62 rushing yards and limited Indiana to just one score in the fourth quarter.
The key matchup in the Orange Bowl revolves around quarterback play. Riley Leonard and Drew Allar have struggled, with neither team putting on an outstanding performance so far in the playoffs. However, Penn State has demonstrated its ability to win when the passing game falters, while Notre Dame relies heavily on running back Tyler Warren’s performances.
Defensively, both teams are evenly matched, but the edge may go to Penn State’s front-line defense against Boise State. A decisive battle at the line of scrimmage could decide the winner.
On offense, neither team is explosive in their passing games, with Penn State averaging just four gains of 40 or more yards per game. Notre Dame fares slightly worse, ranking 130th nationally for such plays. However, they boast an explosive running game that ranks fourth nationally.
Ultimately, a single big play downfield could tip the scales in favor of one team, forcing the opposing defense to devote resources to the back end and exposing vulnerabilities inside the box.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2025/01/08/notre-dame-penn-state-college-football-playoff-orange-bowl/77436210007