CBS analyst predicts Penn State football to win at USC

The Penn State football team has its first major Big Ten road test on Saturday at USC. While the Nittany Lions are the favorite in the matchup, CBS Sports Analyst Josh Pate believes Penn State will win. However, he sees this game as being close enough that USC can cover the spread.

Josh Pate recently revealed his prediction for Penn State football at USC on his show Josh Pate’s College Football Show. 

“I’ll take Penn State to win and USC to cover,” Pate said. “Why not take a Penn State field goal victory? There’s a ton of skill in that right? Lowkey I don’t have any idea what to expect here. My mind and looking at the matchup thinks Penn State has a significant advantage here. I also understand the intangibles in play. And I understand that just count on Penn State’s offense is a risky proposition.

“I understand the travel dynamic. And I understand that Lincoln Riley and that entire program have their backs against the wall….So maybe we thread the needle here. Penn State finds a way to win and USC finds a way to cover…”

Counting on Ryan Barker?

Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-USA TODAY Sports

While last week was promising, if all goes to what Pate has predicted, the Nittany Lions might be depending on Ryan Barker to save the day against USC. The kicking game has been spotty at best for Penn State this season, but Barker looked strong against UCLA.

He connected on both field goal attempts with his long from 40 yards out. The Nittany Lions and the Trojans are slated for a 3:30 p.m. kickoff on CBS.

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