Penn State gets first big play in showdown against Ohio State

Tracy read the play perfectly, jumping outstanding Buckeyes freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith’s route to record the easy interception.

Penn State is seeking a program-defining win. It has routinely fallen short in big games, including against Ohio State.

Under James Franklin, the Nittany Lions are 1-9 against the Buckeyes, including an 0-4 mark against Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day.

For his part, Day also is burdened with enormous pressure. Ohio State is 2-7 against top-five opponents under Day and has already lost at No. 1 Oregon this season.

A second loss could eliminate the Buckeyes from the Big Ten title conversation, making their path as a potential at-large selection in the 12-team College Football Playoff much harder.

While Penn State made the first big play, Ohio State got back into the game with consecutive touchdown drives to take a 14-10 lead.

Saturday’s top-five showdown could be a back-and-forth affair. If so, Tracy’s touchdown is only an appetizer.