Kentucky's looking to make history with their first 10-win season since 1977 while Penn State hopes to cap its third consecutive double-digit win season as the two teams meet in the VRBO Citrus Bowl.
Kentucky's offense will be anchored by running back Benny Snell who rushed for 1,305 yards and 14 touchdowns in the regular season. When it comes to defending the run, the Nittany Lions (9-3) are 67th in the nation, but the team rises to No. 16 when defending the pass, allowing 186.5 yards per game.
However, the Wildcats (9-3) pass efficiency has been questionable this season. Quarterback Terry Wilson has thrown for 1,768 yards and 11 touchdowns but has also thrown eight interceptions this season. Meanwhile, Penn State's secondary racked up 13 interceptions, though none were returned for a touchdown.
Wilson's favorite target, wide receiver Lynn Bowden, Jr. will be tasked with going against the Lions' secondary.
For Penn State's offense, the focus will be placed on senior quarterback Trace McSorley. McSorley has thrown 2,284 yards and 16 touchdowns along with 723 yards and 11 scores with his legs.
But the Lions wide receivers will have to contend with SEC Defensive Player of the Year Josh Allen. The senior linebacker could be the first player off the board in the NFL Draft in April, and his final season with the Wildcats saw Allen win the Bednarik Award, the Lott Trophy, the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, and be named All-American.
Allen's stat line includes 84 total tackles, 52 solo tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss and 14 sacks for the 2018 season.
2019 VRBO Citrus Bowl
Location: Camping World Stadium— Orlando, Florida.
Date: Tuesday, January 1
Time: 2 p.m. ET
TV: ABC | Live stream: WatchESPN
Satellite Radio: Sirius 119, XM 201, Internet 968, PSU Feed: Sirius 205, XM 195, Internet 957
Odds: Penn State -6.5; Over/Under: 47
Prediction:
Kevin McGuire (Athlon Sports): Penn State 30, Kentucky 24
"This is an SEC vs. Big Ten battle that could be pretty entertaining. Both teams have racked up some good wins this season but each has stumbled against their top opponents this season. Penn State's offense must avoid getting off to a slow start but has some options that can help mix things up against a steady Kentucky defense. On offense is where the Nittany Lions create an advantage in their favor as the PSU defense will cause problems for the Wildcats' offense often enough to lead to victory."
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