Penn State @ Temple preview

Last Meeting ( Sep 25, 2010 ) Temple 13, Penn State 22

THE STORY: Penn State already proved it can’t yet play with the big boys. Saturday, it will try to prove it can still handle the little guys when the Nittany Lions travel to play in-state rival Temple. A playmaker under center failed to emerge in Penn State’s 27-11 loss to No. 3 Alabama last weekend, as quarterbacks Rob Bolden and Matt McGloin combined for just 12 completions and 144 passing yards. Both will be shuffled in for series against the Owls, who have outscored two pedestrian foes 83-10 in two blowout victories. This could be a statement game for first-year head coach Steve Addazio, who wasn’t even born the last time Temple beat Penn State.

TV: ESPN LINE: Penn State -7.5

ABOUT PENN STATE (1-1): The Nittany Lions can blame their drop from the national rankings on their conference-worst passing game, which has yet to produce a touchdown. Bolden’s numbers are hardly impressive, but his 17 completions are 10 more than McGloin. Bolden led both scoring drives against Alabama and could have had another if his receiver didn’t fumble at midfield on a key drive in the second quarter. Coach Joe Paterno wants to see established chemistry before he names a permanent starter, but his delayed decision only seems to be extinguishing any potential sparks on offense. Bolden has already admitted he wants a starter named, even if it’s not him.

ABOUT TEMPLE (2-0): While the Owls may not stack up to the Nittany Lions on pure talent, they can surely stand up to them in the trenches. Temple’s offensive line averages 6-foot-5 and 320 pounds and has paved the way for six early-season touchdowns for tailback Bernard Pierce. More holes could be open for the speedster against Penn State, which allowed 4.8 yards per carry and 196 yards rushing to Alabama.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Silas Redd was limited to just 65 yards on 22 carries against Alabama’s massive defensive line but has accounted for all three off Penn State’s six rushing touchdowns this season.

2. Temple’s power up front was a major reason why it led Penn State 13-6 at halftime in last year’s matchup. It went on to lose 22-13.

3. Penn State owns a 36-3-1 record over Temple. The Owls haven’t had a win in this series since 1941.

PREDICTION: Penn State 17, Temple 13 – The talent gap between these two schools is closing quickly, but it still won’t be enough to snap Penn State’s 28-game winning streak in the series. Just like last year’s game, the Owls’ late turnovers will spoil hopes for an