Northwestern and Penn State college football matchup

In a Big Ten matchup at the new Ryan Field, Northwestern defeated Penn State with a final score of 34-13.

During the first half, Northwestern established dominance through a rushing attack that averaged 9.5 yards per carry. Running back Joseph Himon II contributed 134 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Wildcats to a 24-7 halftime advantage. Northwestern’s ground game proved overwhelming, totaling over 400 rushing yards.

The loss leaves Penn State with a 3-2 season record and leaves them “winless in Big Ten conference play.” The Nittany Lions' offense struggled, managing only 13 points, while quarterback Rocco Becht completed 26 of 41 throws for 243 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions.

This defeat marks a difficult period for Penn State, which has now suffered back-to-back losses and is outscored 51-16 over its last two games. The slump impacts the team’s College Football Playoff aspirations. Under head coach Matt Campbell, the team faces a challenging upcoming schedule, including a White Out game against No. 19 USC on October 10 and a subsequent matchup against Michigan.

Conversely, Northwestern has moved to a 3-1 season start, signaling emergence as a conference power.