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Penn State (3-1) at UCLA (0-4)
- When: Oct 4 2025, 3:30 PM
- Where: Rose Bowl, Pasadena, CA
- Where to watch: CBS
- Last Meeting: Penn State 27-11, October 5th, 2024
(7) Penn State vs UCLA Preview & Prediction
Spread: Penn State -24.5
Moneyline: Penn State (-3500)
Total: 48.5
Penn State Nittany Lions Preview
Penn State enters this matchup ranked No. 7 with a 3-1 record, looking to rebound after a crushing double-overtime loss to Oregon. The Nittany Lions battled back in the fourth quarter and even took the lead in OT, but ultimately fell 30-24. Despite the loss, they remain firmly in the postseason hunt, especially with the new 12-team playoff format giving them a wide path back into contention.
Quarterback Drew Allar finished 14-for-25 with 137 yards, 2 touchdowns, and a costly interception that ended the game in the second OT. Coach James Franklin has emphasized the need for more sustained offensive execution and consistency, particularly in generating longer drives. The run game showed flashes, but Kaytron Allen’s 54 yards on the ground wasn’t enough to create balance.
Defensively, Penn State still holds strong metrics and will look to take advantage of a struggling UCLA offense. With their season far from over, the Nittany Lions have the talent and urgency to cover the spread and reset their course.
UCLA Bruins Preview
It’s been a rough ride for UCLA, who come in winless at 0-4 and recently made a coaching change. Interim head coach Tim Skipper took over last week but couldn’t stop the skid, falling 17-14 at Northwestern. Despite a strong effort, the Bruins fell behind early and couldn’t close the gap.
Quarterback Nico Iamaleava led both the passing and rushing attack, throwing for 180 yards and a touchdown while also leading the team with 65 rushing yards. But the Bruins continue to struggle on the ground, with just one rushing touchdown all season.
Skipper has acknowledged the need for a week-to-week game plan adjustment but facing a top-10 Penn State squad is no easy task, especially with UCLA’s lack of offensive punch and defensive depth. Covering nearly a four-touchdown spread will be an uphill battle unless they find a breakthrough early.
Betting Prediction: Penn State vs UCLA
Penn State may have suffered a setback, but this game sets up as a perfect bounce-back opportunity. UCLA’s quarterback-led offense is predictable and one-dimensional, which plays into the hands of a fast and physical Nittany Lions defense.
Look for Penn State to establish dominance early and pull away by the second half. With the spread at 24.5 and a total of 48.5, the safest play leans toward Penn State covering and the total staying just under.
Final Score: Penn State 37, UCLA 10
Lean: Penn State -24.5
Total: Under 48.5
- NCAA Football Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
