Penn State returns home this weekend in need of a response after last Saturday’s stunning 42–37 loss to UCLA — a defeat that exposed cracks on both sides of the ball. The Nittany Lions, now 3–2, watched a 10-point lead slip away late as their defense gave up over 450 total yards. Head coach James Franklin called the performance “unacceptable,” emphasizing discipline and consistency as his team regroups for this Big Ten matchup against Northwestern.

The Wildcats, meanwhile, arrive in Happy Valley looking to extend Penn State’s midseason frustrations. Though underdogs by more than three touchdowns, Northwestern’s defense has been opportunistic, and the unit could test Penn State’s confidence early. The Nittany Lions still hold a strong statistical edge — and Dimers’ 10,000-game model gives

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