30 Facts About Penn State Vs. Ohio State

The Rivalry Begins

The Penn State vs. Ohio State rivalry is one of the most exciting matchups in college football. Both teams have rich histories and passionate fan bases. Here are some fascinating facts about this storied rivalry.

1. The first game between Penn State and Ohio State took place in 1912. Ohio State won 37-0.
2. Penn State and Ohio State have played each other over 35 times since 1993 when Penn State joined the Big Ten Conference.
3. Ohio State leads the all-time series with more wins than Penn State.
4. The rivalry is often referred to as the "Big Ten East Division Clash" due to both teams being in the same division.

Memorable Moments

This rivalry has produced some unforgettable moments that fans still talk about today.

5. In 1994, Penn State defeated Ohio State 63-14, one of the most lopsided victories in the series.
6. The 2005 game saw Penn State win 17-10, which helped them secure a Big Ten Championship.
7. Ohio State's 2017 comeback win, where they overcame a 15-point deficit in the fourth quarter, is considered one of the greatest comebacks in college football history.
8. In 2016, Penn State blocked a field goal and returned it for a touchdown, leading to a 24-21 upset over Ohio State.

Coaching Legends

Both teams have been led by some of the most iconic coaches in college football history.

9. Joe Paterno, Penn State's legendary coach, faced Ohio State 25 times during his career.
10. Urban Meyer, one of Ohio State's most successful coaches, had a 7-0 record against Penn State.
11. James Franklin, the current Penn State coach, has revitalized the program and made the rivalry even more competitive.
12. Woody Hayes, a legendary Ohio State coach, had a significant impact on the rivalry during his tenure.

Star Players

Many star players have showcased their talents in this rivalry, leaving a lasting legacy.

13. Saquon Barkley, a Penn State running back, had a memorable 97-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against Ohio State in 2017.
14. Ohio State's Ezekiel Elliott rushed for over 150 yards in multiple games against Penn State.
15. Penn State's Kerry Collins, a quarterback, led the team to a victory over Ohio State in 1994.
16. Ohio State's Joey Bosa, a defensive end, was a dominant force in games against Penn State.

Stadium Atmosphere

The atmosphere at these games is electric, with fans creating an unforgettable experience.

17. Penn State's Beaver Stadium is known for its "White Out" games, where fans wear white to create a sea of white in the stands.
18. Ohio State's Ohio Stadium, also known as "The Horseshoe," is one of the largest stadiums in the country and provides a daunting environment for visiting teams.
19. The 2018 game at Beaver Stadium set a record for the largest crowd in Penn State history, with over 110,000 fans in attendance.
20. Both stadiums are known for their loud and passionate fan bases, making it difficult for opposing teams to communicate on the field.

Impact on Rankings

The outcome of these games often has a significant impact on national rankings and playoff implications.

21. In 2016, Penn State's victory over Ohio State helped them climb into the top 10 of the national rankings.
22. Ohio State's 2014 win against Penn State was a key factor in their eventual national championship run.
23. The 2019 game saw Ohio State secure a spot in the College Football Playoff with a win over Penn State.
24. Both teams are often ranked in the top 25 when they face each other, adding to the intensity of the matchup.

Fan Traditions

Fans of both teams have unique traditions that add to the excitement of the rivalry.

25. Penn State fans participate in the "Nittany Lion Roar," a chant that echoes throughout Beaver Stadium.
26. Ohio State fans perform the "Script Ohio," a marching band formation that is a staple at home games.
27. Tailgating is a major part of the game day experience for both fan bases, with elaborate setups and festivities.
28. The "We Are" chant is a famous Penn State tradition that unites fans before and during games.

Future of the Rivalry

The future looks bright for this rivalry, with both teams continuing to compete at a high level.

29. Both Penn State and Ohio State consistently recruit top talent, ensuring that the rivalry remains competitive.
30. The introduction of the College Football Playoff has added even more stakes to the matchup, as both teams often have playoff aspirations.

The Penn State vs. Ohio State rivalry is a cornerstone of college football, filled with history, memorable moments, and passionate fans. Each game adds a new chapter to this storied rivalry, making it one of the most anticipated matchups each season.

The Final Whistle

Penn State vs. Ohio State isn't just a game; it's a clash of titans with a rich history. From jaw-dropping plays to unforgettable moments, this rivalry has it all. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, there's no denying the excitement and passion that fill the air when these teams meet.

The stats, the records, and the stories all contribute to making this matchup one of the most anticipated in college football. So next time you tune in, remember you're witnessing more than a game; you're part of a legacy.

Keep these facts in mind, and you'll appreciate the depth and intensity of this storied rivalry even more. Whether you're rooting for the Nittany Lions or the Buckeyes, one thing's for sure: this showdown never disappoints.