Why Did Auburn Play Penn State in College Football?
In college football, matchups between SEC and Big Ten teams can often be a highlight of the early season. Such games offer a competitive challenge, generate significant ratings, and draw large crowds. In the case of Auburn University and Pennsylvania State University (Penn State), a 2-game home and home series has been established, ensuring a tight and exciting competition between two storied programs.
Securing the Matchup
While I do not have specific details on the initial decision to play this matchup, ESPN is known for creating appealing pairings to attract viewers. In this instance, both Auburn and Penn State signed contracts to play each other, ensuring they would have a competitive game early in the season.
The 2021-2022 Season: A Competitive Battle
In the 2021 game played in Happy Valley, Penn State emerged victorious with a score of 28-20. This was a closely contested game, showcasing the high level of play and the competitive nature of the matchup. The 2022 game, held on the Auburn Plains, was also highly competitive, adding to the tradition of close games in this series.
The Benefits of Intracoverage Matchups
Intracoverage matchups, or games between major schools from different power conferences, are beneficial for several reasons. These games draw a lot of viewer interest, particularly among fans of college football. They also generate substantial revenue for the universities involved.
Universities from different power conferences often play cross-conference games early in the season to establish their standing. This strategy is not unique to football; it is also common in basketball, where schools from different basketball conferences often play each other before conference play begins.
Future Prospects: Strength and Tradition
Given the tradition and strength of both universities, it is expected that the upcoming game in Auburn will be just as competitive. Penn State and Auburn’s recent history is filled with close and thrilling games, making this a highly anticipated matchup. The deep traditions of both schools and their fan bases ensure that this series will continue to be a significant event in college football.
In conclusion, Auburn playing Penn State in college football is a testament to the exciting nature of these cross-conference matchups. They provide a platform for schools to showcase their talent, generate revenue, and create lasting memories for fans. As we look forward to the upcoming game, it is clear that it will be another highly competitive and memorable encounter between two storied programs.