Miami Gardens, FL – The 2024 Orange Bowl Kicks off in 48 hours and we’re in for a good one. The Penn State Nittany Lions will take on The Notre Dame Fighting Irish for a spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship.

The Nittany Lions come off a 31-14 win over Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl. As well as a blowout win vs SMU in the first-round. On the other hand, Notre Dame had an impressive win over Georgia in the Sugar Bowl and a solid first-round win vs Indiana.

It’s anticipated that this game will be a defensive showcase. Penn State held the Heisman runner-up Ashton Jeanty to 3.5 yards per carry, including two fumbles. The Nittany Lions will have to contain Notre Dame’s offensive attack. The key is to stop the run, especially from QB Riley Leonard, who had 14 carries for 80 yards in the Sugar Bowl.  WR Jordan Faison is also a name to be on the lookout for. Faison had multiple big catches last week vs Georgia.

As for Notre Dame, their defense recorded four sacks and held Georgia to 10 points. The Irish are second in points allowed this season and look to hold a rolling Penn State offense. Nicholas Singleton and Drew Allar have been balling but their offensive line will be tested vs the Notre Dame pressure.

Overall, we’re looking at what should be an close, exiting semifinal matchup between two historical programs.

Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET at Hard Rock Stadium, Thursday, December 9. Which team will earn the right to play for a National Championship?

Photo Via Capital One Orange Bowl