Oregon-Penn State Round 2 is right around the corner.
In one of the best conference title games in recent memory, the Ducks defeated the Nittany Lions 45-37 to clinch their spot in the College Football Playoff, where they would lose in the Rose Bowl to eventual national champion Ohio State.
Both teams will rematch in late September in State College, and Fox Sports' Joel Klatt loves this game as a headline attraction for the upcoming college football season.
"I think this game is bigger for Penn State than Oregon," Klatt said. "I’ve repeated over and over again that it’s time for Penn State to beat someone it’s evenly matched with or upset a team with more talent than it has. James Franklin has done a perfect job at winning the games he’s supposed to win, which is a talent that shouldn’t be underrated. But he and Penn State have to win those matchup games, where you have to beat a team that has equal talent to you. The Nittany Lions got close to doing that last year, playing Ohio State, Oregon and Notre Dame close."
Klatt also says this could be the Nittany Lions' coming-out party toward their quest to contend for a national title.
"If Penn State can win this game, that would announce to everyone that this group is ready for the big stage and potentially make a run for a title," Klatt added.
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Moat college football pundits suggest the Nittany Lions' veteran-based roster is enough to contend for a national title. Add Klatt to the list.
The Nittany Lions lost their chance at contending for a national title by losing to Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl in January. Now, it seeks redemption.
In about seven weeks or so, Penn State is going to try to prove Klatt right with high expectations looming.
For now, it remains to be seen.