The 2024 College Football Playoff kicks off with a compelling first-round matchup between the 11th-seeded SMU Mustangs and the 6th-seeded Penn State Nittany Lions. Scheduled for a noon ET kickoff on Saturday, December 21st, at Penn State’s Beaver Stadium, the game will be broadcast on TNT and Max, and can also be streamed via Sling. Both teams enter the playoffs with 11-2 records, carrying the weight of recent championship game losses and the burning desire to prove their playoff worthiness. The clash promises a high-octane offensive display against the backdrop of a raucous Beaver Stadium crowd, setting the stage for an exciting start to the playoff season.
SMU arrives in Happy Valley with the sting of a narrow 34-31 defeat to Clemson in the ACC Championship Game. Despite trailing by 17 points entering the final quarter, the Mustangs displayed remarkable resilience, clawing their way back to tie the game before ultimately succumbing to a last-second field goal. This resilience has been the hallmark of their season, fueled by an explosive offense that has kept them competitive even when their defense has faltered. The challenge for SMU lies in igniting their offense early against a formidable Penn State defense and avoiding the pitfalls of playing catch-up. The Mustangs’ ability to dictate the tempo and establish their rhythm will be crucial in determining their playoff fate.
Penn State, too, carries the burden of a recent championship game setback, having fallen 45-37 to Oregon in the Big Ten Championship Game. Despite amassing impressive offensive statistics—523 total yards and 28 first downs—two costly turnovers ultimately derailed their championship aspirations. The Nittany Lions hold a 1-2 record against ranked opponents this season, raising questions about their ability to consistently perform against elite competition. However, playing in front of their home crowd at Beaver Stadium provides a significant advantage, offering the opportunity to rebound and make a statement in the playoff opener. Protecting the football and maximizing their offensive efficiency will be key for Penn State to advance.
The matchup presents an intriguing contrast in styles. SMU’s high-octane offense, known for its quick-strike capability and ability to put up points in bunches, will test Penn State’s defensive resilience. The Nittany Lions, while possessing a potent offense of their own, will need to minimize turnovers and maintain possession to neutralize SMU’s scoring threats. The game hinges on which team can impose its will and dictate the flow of the game. Will SMU’s offensive firepower overwhelm Penn State’s defense, or will the Nittany Lions’ balanced attack and home-field advantage prove decisive?
Beyond the individual team narratives, the game represents a broader clash of conferences. SMU, representing the ACC, seeks to prove its mettle against a Big Ten powerhouse in Penn State. The outcome will not only impact the individual teams but also contribute to the ongoing debate about conference strength and playoff representation. A strong performance by SMU could bolster the ACC’s standing, while a Penn State victory would reaffirm the Big Ten’s position among the top conferences.
The SMU-Penn State clash marks the beginning of a thrilling Saturday of college football, with two other playoff games and NFL action also on the schedule. The high stakes, contrasting styles, and implications for conference pride combine to make this first-round matchup a must-see event for college football fans. As the road to the national championship begins in Happy Valley, both SMU and Penn State are eager to prove they belong among the nation’s elite. The stage is set for a captivating contest that will set the tone for the remainder of the playoffs.
