Penn State vs. Georgia: TaxSlayer Bowl News, Notes, and Preview

The Penn State Nittany Lions (7-5, 4-4) will face the Georgia Bulldogs (9-3, 5-3) in the TaxSlayer Bowl this postseason. This is only the 2nd ever meeting between these 2 historic programs. The lone meeting was the 1983 national championship Sugar bowl, where Penn State defeated Georgia 27-23.

• When: Noon on Saturday, January 2nd, 2016
• Where: EverBank Field, Jacksonville, Florida
• TV: ESPN and WatchESPN

Both teams have recently fired coaches. Georgia recently fired head coach Mark Richt, and Penn State recently fired offensive coordinator John Donovan. We’re still not sure if Penn State will hire an offensive coordinator before the bowl game, but we will keep you updated to the minute on that news.

Penn State’s Keys to the Game:

• Stop the run: The Bulldogs want to run the football as much as possible. If Penn State can force Georgia to be a pass first team, they can stop them from scoring, and contain their offense. Greyson Lambert, Georgia’s quarterback, is more of a game manager than a playmaker. I think comparing him to Alex Smith would be a fair comparison. If Penn State can slow the run and force this kid to try and win the game, we will most likely see Penn State win the game. Don’t forget, Penn State has a great defensive line that can get pressure on the quarterback, led by Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, Carl Nassib.

http://gty.im/498988830

• Get Saquon the rock: Saquon Barkley is Penn State’s star true freshman running back. Barkley rushed for 1007 yards and 7 touchdowns, while averaging 6.1 yard per carry during the regular season. The Penn State offense seems to only move the football down the field when either Saquon Barkley touches it, or wide receiver Chris Godwin touches it. Since Georgia is 1st in the nation in passing defense, I have a feeling this game will come down to whether Saquon Barkley can run the ball effectively, and catch screen passes to get into the open field. Maybe he’ll do a hurdle or two along the way.

Prediction:

Georgia will win the turnover battle, and get to much pressure on Hackenberg for the Penn State offense to get into a good groove down the stretch.

Final Score: Penn State 20 vs. Georgia 24