**Ohio State Edges Past Penn State in Hard-Fought Showdown**

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (AP) — In a crucial Big Ten clash, Will Howard led No. 4 Ohio State to a gritty 20-13 victory over No. 3 Penn State, securing a key win at Beaver Stadium. Howard threw for 182 yards and two touchdowns, aiding Ohio State’s defensive efforts to hold off the Nittany Lions in front of a record crowd.

Ohio State (7-1, 4-1) remains in the hunt for the Big Ten Championship, extending their winning streak over Penn State (7-1, 4-1) to eight games. Howard’s performance seemed personal, having been overlooked by Penn State during his recruitment. He rallied to connect with Emeka Egbuka and Brandon Inniss for first-half touchdowns, despite some early mishaps, including a pick-6 on his first pass and a fumble at the goal line.

The Buckeyes' defense showcased resilience by keeping Penn State’s offense out of the end zone. They thwarted two significant drives deep in their territory, including a critical stop in the fourth quarter when Nittany Lions' quarterback Drew Allar failed to convert on fourth-and-goal from the 1-yard line.

A strategic offensive display helped Ohio State run out the clock, securing the victory as Howard clinched a final first down. The win bolstered Ohio State’s College Football Playoff prospects, especially after a narrow loss to No. 1 Oregon three weeks prior.

Drew Allar, hindered by a leg injury, managed 146 passing yards and added 31 on the ground. Despite his efforts and those of tight end Tyler Warren, who contributed 94 combined yards, Penn State’s new offensive scheme under coordinator Andy Kotelnicki fell short, lacking explosive plays and struggling against Ohio State’s dominant defense.

James Franklin’s tenure against Ohio State continues to be challenging, with his record now at 1-9 against the Buckeyes. The recurring issues of offensive stagnation and a physically outmatched line were evident once again.

Next Saturday, Ohio State will host Purdue at Ohio Stadium, while Penn State will look to rebound when they welcome Washington.