Two offensively capable and defensively cheap Big Ten programs kick off Saturday's slate. Undefeated No. 3 Penn State can end a series losing streak against No. 4 Ohio State that spans over eight seasons. But, nothing comes easy in college football as Penn State could be without Drew Allar as the starting quarterback went down with a knee injury in Week 9.

The poor timing falls in favor of Ryan Day's group, with Caesars Sportsbook offering the Buckeyes as 3.5-point favorites (-110), which really hasn't budged since opening at a brisk 3-points. From reviewing the history of the conference rivalry to considering current injuries and implications, all signs are pointing to betting on the Buckeyes.

Ohio State vs Penn State Odds

Odds as of October 29 from Caesars Sportsbook

Ohio State vs Penn State Picks – Week 10

The Buckeyes may have the upper hand outright, going 6-1 SU when road favorites in Pennsylvania. However, the Nittany Lions put up a true fight, going 4-1 ATS when hosting the Buckeyes as underdogs. But, only two of those five outcomes were within three points or fewer. 

No Allar sways my vote considerably in this game and I wouldn't be sold on a full bill of health even if he does take the field. It's not rocket science to figure out that offensive hopes rest on Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen. I'm sure Ryan Day will demand close coverage on the running-back duo.

Ohio State's defense is a tough cookie to crack. Then again, so is Penn State. Both allowing 93 yards or less per game to sit in the nation's top six, stingy on allowing passing and rushing yardage. Doesn't matter where you search, you'll find both at the top of the defensive rankings in every area. It will take a balanced offensive attack to overcome the defensive fronts of this meeting. Clearly, that edge belongs to a healthy Ohio State lineup. 

Ohio State vs Penn State Week 10 Pick: Ohio State -3.5 (-110)

*picks made as of Tuesday, October 29 at 12:30 pm ET

Ohio State vs Penn State News

Drew Allar will be a game-day decision after suffering a knee injury against Wisconsin. The timing is far from ideal as the junior is dialed in, completing 70% of his passes in his last five performances, and leading his undefeated group to its highest AP Poll ranking since 2017. 

While back-up Beau Pribula pulled off the crucial comeback over the Badgers, completing 11-of-13 passes just shy of 100 yards and pocketing a single touchdown. However, the sophomore has yet to feel the nerves of being called on to be the starting signal-caller in a college football matchup. No Allar is a massive loss for Penn State and even if he does play, there's no guarantee he's at full health and well… that's still just as worrisome from a betting perspective

Ohio State vs Penn State Prop Bet: will howard UNDER 15.5 Rushing yards (-120)

I've already established both programs have tough defenses to overcome. While I can imagine Howard scrambling to escape the pressure in the pocket, I suspect he'll lose more yards than gain. The trend also doesn't help the situation, with the senior, averaging 4.4 rushing yards per game, hitting the UNDER on his rushing yardage in four of his last five road games.

Ohio State vs Penn State Betting Trends