Penn State (12-2-0) at Boise State (12-1-0)
- When: Dec 31 2024, 7:30 PM
- Where: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ
- Where to watch: ESPN
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Penn State (#6) @ Boise State (#3)
Moneyline
Penn State (#6) -480
Boise State (#3) +350
Penn State (#6) @ Boise State (#3)
Point Spread
Penn State (#6) -12.0 (-110)
Boise State (#3) 12.0 (-110)
Penn State (#6) @ Boise State (#3)
Total
Over 54.5 (-110)
Under 54.5 (-110)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Passing Team Leaders:
Penn State: Drew Allar 3021 Yds
Boise State: Maddux Madsen 2714 Yds
Team Stats
| Penn State | Boise State | |
| 12-2 | Record | 12-1 |
| 5-1 | Away | 5-1 |
| -7-0 | ATS | 7-5-1 |
| 6-8-0 | O/U | 7-6-0 |
Game Preview
The stage is set for an exciting Fiesta Bowl clash between No. 6 Penn State and No. 3 Boise State, as both teams bring rich histories and perfect records in this prestigious bowl game. Penn State enters as an 11.5-point favorite, with a total set at 54, making this a compelling betting opportunity.
Penn State: Dominant Legacy, Big Stage Experience
The Nittany Lions (12-2) secured their spot in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals after a commanding 38-10 win over SMU. Penn State boasts a 7-0 record in the Fiesta Bowl, a mark unmatched in college football. Coach James Franklin has emphasized the program’s storied history to inspire his players.
“We’ve built this on the shoulders of legends,” Franklin said. “The Fiesta Bowl holds a special place for Penn State, and we’re ready to honor that legacy.”
Penn State’s offense will revolve around senior tight end Tyler Warren, a unanimous All-American and Mackey Award winner. Warren set Big Ten records for tight ends with 92 receptions and 1,095 receiving yards this season, along with six touchdown catches. His versatility as a receiver and blocker makes him a matchup nightmare.
“Warren is a complete player,” Franklin said. “He’s a top draft prospect for a reason, and he’s integral to our success.”
The Nittany Lions’ defense complements their potent offense, allowing just 17.4 points per game. Their ability to stifle opponents will be key to covering the spread.
Boise State: Grit Meets Opportunity
Boise State (12-1) enters the Fiesta Bowl with its own perfect 3-0 record in the game, including the legendary 2007 win over Oklahoma. The Broncos are underdogs once again, a role they’ve embraced historically.
Coach Spencer Danielson is rallying his team with the underdog narrative, saying, “People count us out, but that’s when we shine. We thrive in moments like this.”
The Broncos’ offense centers around Ashton Jeanty, who finished second in Heisman voting. Jeanty rushed for 2,497 yards and 29 touchdowns this season, with 1,300 of those yards coming after contact. He’s just 132 yards shy of Barry Sanders’ single-season rushing record.
“Jeanty is the engine of our team,” Danielson said. “He’s a game-changer, and we’ll lean on him to keep us in this fight.”
Boise State’s defense, however, will have its hands full containing Penn State’s balanced attack. Their ability to limit big plays will determine whether they can stay within the spread.
Key Matchups to Watch:
Tyler Warren vs. Boise State Defense:
Warren’s combination of size, speed, and versatility will test Boise State’s linebackers and secondary. The Broncos must find ways to neutralize him or risk getting picked apart.
Ashton Jeanty vs. Penn State Run Defense:
Jeanty’s ability to break tackles and generate explosive plays will be critical. If Penn State can bottle him up, Boise State’s offense will struggle to find rhythm.
Momentum vs. Legacy:
Both teams enter with perfect Fiesta Bowl records, but Penn State’s deeper talent pool and playoff experience give them an edge.
Betting Insights and Predictions:
– Spread: Penn State -12
Penn State’s dominance on both sides of the ball, coupled with Boise State’s reliance on Jeanty, makes the Nittany Lions a strong bet to cover.
– Total: Over 54.5
Both teams have playmakers capable of breaking big plays, pushing this game over the total.
– Player Prop: Ashton Jeanty Over 127.5 Rushing Yards
Jeanty’s relentless running style and potential to break Barry Sanders’ record make this a prop worth backing.
Final Thoughts:
Penn State’s balanced offense and stout defense should overpower Boise State’s underdog spirit in this Fiesta Bowl showdown. Bettors should back the Nittany Lions to cover the spread while keeping an eye on the over, as both offenses have the firepower to light up the scoreboard. Expect Jeanty and Warren to deliver standout performances in what promises to be an entertaining playoff clash.
CFP Fiesta Bowl Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Penn State 36-20
Expert Pick: Penn State -12 & Over 54½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $364
- CFP Fiesta Bowl Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
