**Massive Showdown: No. 1 Penn State vs. No. 8 Ohio State – Predictions & Key Rules**
Wrestling fans are in for a treat as No. 1 Penn State heads to Columbus for a highly anticipated battle against No. 8 Ohio State. The Nittany Lions have been dominant all season, but the Buckeyes are hungry for an upset in front of their home crowd. With high-stakes matchups across multiple weight classes, this Big Ten showdown could shake up the rankings.
### **Key Matchups to Watch**
– **133 lbs: No. 1 Aaron Brooks (PSU) vs. No. 5 Nic Bouzakis (OSU)** – Brooks has been nearly untouchable, but Bouzakis has the ability to push him in a close match.
– **157 lbs: No. 2 Levi Haines (PSU) vs. No. 4 Paddy Gallagher (OSU)** – A battle of rising stars, this match could set the tone for the night.
– **285 lbs: No. 1 Greg Kerkvliet (PSU) vs. No. 6 Tate Orndorff (OSU)** – Can Orndorff pull off a stunning upset, or will Kerkvliet continue his dominance?
### **Predictions**
Penn State enters as the clear favorite, boasting a roster packed with elite talent and multiple national champions. Ohio State will need bonus-point wins in key spots and a massive home-crowd advantage to have a shot. Look for the Nittany Lions to secure a comfortable win, likely in the **24-9 or 27-6 range**. However, if the Buckeyes steal a couple of early matches, things could get interesting.
### **Key Rules to Know**
– **Takedown = 2 points** – The most important scoring move in a match.
– **Escape = 1 point** – A wrestler gets this after breaking free from their opponent’s control.
– **Near Fall = 2 or 4 points** – Awarded when a wrestler nearly pins their opponent.
– **Riding Time = 1 point** – A bonus point if a wrestler controls their opponent for a full minute longer.
Penn State looks primed to continue its unbeaten run, but Ohio State has a history of bringing the fight. Can the Buckeyes pull off the upset, or will the Nittany Lions roll on?
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