Amid the exciting announcement on Sunday, it was confirmed that Penn State, ranked 10th, will be participating in the Peach Bowl against No. 11 Ole Miss – marking the Nittany Lions’ fifth appearance in a New Year’s Six bowl in just eight years. The showdown is set for December 30th at noon in Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and fans can catch the action live on ESPN.
Having never previously competed in the Peach Bowl and never crossed paths with the Rebels (coached by Lane Kiffin) before, Penn State (10-2), under the guidance of Coach James Franklin, is thrilled to face this new challenge. At the same time, Ole Miss, with a 10-2 record, will be making its first appearance in the bowl since 2014.
“We’re ecstatic to be part of this incredible matchup and to take on a formidable opponent like Penn State,” Kiffin remarked. “Coach Franklin has achieved great success with an impressive roster of players, making this a highly anticipated bowl game that we’re eagerly looking forward to.”
Heading into the game, Ole Miss finished second in the Southeastern Conference West with standout victories including those against Tulane, LSU, and Texas A&M. Quarterback Jaxon Dart and running back Quinshon Judkins have been pivotal contributors to the team’s successes this season. Notably, Ole Miss ranks highly in pass efficiency, total offense, scoring, and rushing.
Penn State, coming off the back of a successful season that saw them secure key wins against West Virginia, Iowa, Northwestern, and Maryland, boasts a formidable defense. Their track record showcases top rankings in several defensive categories, setting up what will surely be a thrilling faceoff on the field.
“It’s a great match-up, pitting one of the country’s top offenses against the top total defense,” said Gary Stokan, Peach Bowl chief executive officer.
Reflecting on their forthcoming appearance, Coach Franklin shared his admiration and respect for Ole Miss and its head coach. “We are thrilled to participate in the Peach Bowl. You have two programs with such a strong brand, reputation, and history,” Franklin stated.
Furthermore, Franklin and Kiffin have a history that dates back to their time in the SEC, and both are eager to lead their teams into this exciting postseason clash.
Alex Martin is your guide to the global phenomenon of football. With a focus on international leagues and tournaments, he provides match commentary, player interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of football.
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