“Unstoppable Surge: How Penn State Toppled Ohio State in Thrilling Power Rankings Shake-Up!”

In a dramatic shake-up in the college football landscape, the Penn State Nittany Lions have made a significant leap in the latest USA TODAY power rankings, moving into the top three after a thrilling Week 9. Their commanding second-half performance against Wisconsin—a game played without the usual star power of starting quarterback Drew Allar—showcased their resilience and depth. Meanwhile, the Ohio State Buckeyes saw their status falter after a lackluster victory over Nebraska, setting the stage for an intense showdown between these two storied programs. As they stand, Penn State is now poised just behind Oregon and Georgia, while also representing the Big Ten with pride. The stakes are high as the Lions prepare for a crucial matchup that could give them a major edge for the Big Ten Championship and a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff. Excitement is certainly in the air! For a deeper dive into the rankings and implications, click here to LEARN MORE.

Story originally appeared on Nittany Lions WireAfter losing to Kennesaw State, Liberty dropped 18 spots to No. 50, while Oklahoma State fell to No. 83 after losing to Baylor. Iowa was one of the biggest risers in the Big Ten, up nine spots to No. 34.Penn State is ranked as the second-best Big Ten team heading into this weekend’s crucial matchup against Ohio State. A win would give the Nittany Lions an inside track to the Big Ten Championship game and the College Football playoff.Penn State used a dominant second half to defeat Wisconsin and did it without starting quarterback Drew Allar. Ohio State, on the other hand, struggled to beat Nebraska, and the Cornhuskers controlled the game by slowing down the Buckeyes running game.Follow Charlie Strella on X, Threads, and Instagram.After weeks of no movement for Penn State in the USA TODAY’s power rankings, things changed after the events on Week 9. The Nittany Lions flipped spots with Ohio State and find themselves in the top 3 in Paul Myerberg’s updated 1-134 power rankings.The Nittany Lions now rank only behind Oregon and Georgia. Indiana, at No. 13, joins Oregon, Penn State, and Ohio State as the fourth Big Ten program to be ranked in the top 15.Follow Nittany Lions Wire on X, Facebook, and Threads.