Watch: Penn State gets first big play in top-five showdown against Ohio State

Tracy read the play perfectly, jumping outstanding Buckeyes freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith's route to record the easy interception.

Penn State is seeking a program-defining win. It has routinely fallen short in big games, including against Ohio State.

Under James Franklin, the Nittany Lions are 1-9 against the Buckeyes, including an 0-4 mark against Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day.

For his part, Day also is burdened with enormous pressure. Ohio State is 2-7 against top-five opponents under Day and has already lost at No. 1 Oregon this season.

A second loss could eliminate the Buckeyes from the Big Ten title conversation, making their path as a potential at-large selection in the 12-team College Football Playoff much harder.

While Penn State made the first big play, Ohio State got back into the game with consecutive touchdown drives to take a 14-10 lead.

Saturday's top-five showdown could be a back-and-forth affair. If so, Tracy's touchdown is only an appetizer.