Penn State vs. SMU odds, predictions, picks and best bets

The No. 4 ranked Penn State Nittany Lions will take on the No. 10 SMU Mustangs in a first-round College Football Playoff matchup.

Penn State gave a valiant effort, but came up short against Oregon in the Big Ten Championship game. The only other blemish on Penn State's record is a seven-point loss to Ohio State last month. 

The Nittany Lions' defense is one of the best units in the nation, ranking eighth in points allowed and sixth in total yards. Offensively, Penn State ranks first in the Big Ten in rushing, led by a dynamic running back duo of Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen.

SMU is coming off a heartbreaking loss to Clemson in the ACC Championship game. Clemson kicked the game-winning field goal as time expired in an exciting back-and-fourth contest.

SMU is a well-rounded team, ranking second in the ACC in total defense and fifth in total offense. Quarterback Kevin Jennings has a big arm and has thrown for 3,050 yards with 27 total touchdowns this season. 

Let's dive in to our best odds, bets and predictions for this matchup.

*Odds from Caesars Sportsbook and subject to change

Penn State vs. SMU Moneyline

Penn State: -335
SMU: +260

SMU has an explosive passing attack, but a matchup against a great Penn State secondary combined with possible wintery weather conditions will make things difficult. The Mustangs struggled to contain Clemson's pass rush, and will face an even better one against the Nittany Lions, led by stud defensive end Abdul Carter.

SMU has played well defensively this season, but Penn State's offense will easily be the toughest that the Mustangs face this season. At the end of the day, I think the Nittany Lions outclass SMU in just about every facet and will take care of business at home.

Penn State vs. SMU Spread

Penn State: -8.5 (-110)
SMU: +8.5 (-110)

The Mustangs' defense may keep them in the game for a while, but I think Penn State pulls away in the second half and covers the spread.

Penn State vs. SMU Over-Under 54 total points

Over: -110
Under: -110

Weather conditions will make it tough for both offenses, and I think the Nittany Lions control the game on the ground offensively. I'm betting the under.