BREAKING: Penn State-Ohio State kickoff details announced

As No. 3 Penn State football prepares to return to action with a primetime trip to Camp Randall this Saturday, we’re learning more details about a potential top-four showdown inside Beaver Stadium next weekend. As expected, the November 2 matchup between the Nittany Lions and Ohio State Buckeyes will air at 12 p.m. on FOX, although the matchup hasn’t officially received the Big Noon Kickoff designation yet.

The announcement came Monday afternoon via the Big Ten and Penn State athletics, but the decision has been anticipated for months. The Nittany Lions and Buckeyes have faced off on Big Noon Kickoff in three of the last five years.

Happy Valley, get ready for an afternoon thriller 😈

vs. Ohio State
➡️ Noon#WeArePennState pic.twitter.com/wtsz2ywBbx

— Penn State Athletics (@GoPSUsports) October 21, 2024

When the two met on Big Noon Kickoff last time in Beaver Stadium, Sean Clifford threw for 371 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions in a 44-31 Ohio State victory. Penn State led 21-16 with 9:26 remaining in the fourth quarter before the Buckeyes went on a 28-3 run, sparked by two key turnovers forced by defensive end JT Tuimoloau in the game’s closing minutes.

Mandatory Credit: Matthew OHaren-USA TODAY Sports

Ohio State leads the series 23-8 since 1993, including a 9-6 recording at Beaver Stadium. Of course, the last time the Nittany Lions defeated the Buckeyes came at home, a 24-21 win in 2016.

Since arriving in Happy Valley in 2014, James Franklin has a 3-17 record against top 10 opponents. However, on the Buckeyes’ sideline, Ryan Day is 2-6 against AP top-five teams since taking over for Urban Meyer in 2019, including four consecutive losses.

If and when the selection ultimately arrives, the contest will mark the third time Penn State football has appeared on Big Noon Kickoff this season. The Nittany Lions opened the year with a 34-12 victory on the road at West Virginia, followed by a 27-11 win against UCLA on October 5.

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