Bowling Green entered its Week 2 duel with No. 8-ranked Penn State as 35.5-point underdogs. At halftime, the Falcons led 24-20. Can they pull off the upset, or will Penn State rally in the second half?
Bowling Green Puts College Football World on Upset Alert
The Falcons kicked off the game with a six-play, 75-yard touchdown drive and scored on both of their ensuing possessions (field goal and TD). The Nittany Lions kept pace, but they didn’t lead until midway through the third quarter after a 14-yard touchdown catch by RB Nicholas Singleton.
Why Bowling Green Can Pull Off a College Football Upset
Longtime collegiate passer Connor Bazelak entered the second half having completed 16 of 20 passes for 192 yards and two TDs, with most of his production coming via star TE Harold Fannin Jr. (7-110-1 receiving line).
If the connection maintains its success and the ground game gets going, the Falcons could continue to score points, which they’ll need to do with the defense just doing enough to keep the game from falling off the rails.
Why Penn State Can Avoid a College Football Upset
The Nittany Lions hurt themselves early on, committing three penalties for 31 yards and going 1-for-5 on third downs. TE Tyler Warren has been the only pass catcher of note, hauling seven receptions for 141 yards.
The offensive line has allowed more pressure than expected, stalling out drives, but they’ve generated immense push up front in the ground game, allowing both Singleton (11-76-0) and Kaytron Allen (7-56-0) to thrive.
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Defensive coordinator Tom Allen had halftime to make the adjustments necessary to come out in the second half and stymie Bowling Green’s offensive onslaught (i.e. key on Fannin and use stunts/games to get defenders into the backfield).
If those changes take effect, Penn State has the talent to avoid a stunning upset. Stay tuned — the second half could be a wild ride.
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