I like WEST VIRGINIA +10 in this one. Yes, West Virginia runs the ball more than almost any other team in the country. And yes, Penn St. was number one last year in yards per rush allowed. But, this year Penn State has a new offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator, and special teams coordinator. There will be an adjustment period for them early in the season.
And Penn State's new offensive coordinator is Andy Kotelnicki from Kansas. Kotelnicki's offense thrives on creative formations, motions, and shifts. The Big 10 might be caught off guard this year by this, but West Virginia won't be. Neal Brown and WVU went against Kotelnicki's Kansas offense in 2021 and 2022.
West Virginia returns dual threat QB Garrett Greene. Greene plays fearless and is never afraid to take the big hit. This can make West Virginia a risky bet during the season if he is unknowingly banged up from the previous game, but that is not a concern here. Greene's value is at its highest the first game of the season when he is fully healthy.
Official Recommendation: WEST VIRGINIA +10
(I didn't buy half a point. This was the line being offered.)