Villanova travels to Happy Valley for its toughest matchup against Penn State

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, September 12th 2025 at 11:39 GMT by Philadelphia Inquirer

Villanova’s Run Game Looks to Upset Penn State in FBS Showdown at Beaver Stadium

State College, PA – In the fall of 2025, the Wildcats are preparing to go up against one of the Power Five’s most storied programs in a game that could define the season for the underdogs. Villanova, a dominant FCS power with a run‑heavy offense, will take on Penn State on the giant field of Beaver Stadium on Saturday night. While the odds heavily favor the Nittany Lions, the Wildcats’ ground attack could prove a dangerous weapon that the Big Ten side has yet to fully neutralize.

A Tale of Two Programs

Villanova’s football program, led by veteran head coach Tony D’Ambrosio, has spent the last decade forging a reputation as the “run‑machine” of the Northeast Conference. D’Ambrosio, a former assistant at Ohio State and Michigan, has built a system that emphasizes power, discipline, and ball control. The Wildcats finished the 2024 campaign with a 9‑3 record and a 5‑1 mark in the NEC, earning their sixth consecutive conference title. Their offense rushed for 4,200 yards, ranking fifth nationally among FCS teams, with sophomore tailback Jordan “The Tank” Davis amassing 1,350 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns. His breakout season, combined with a solid offensive line that has been described as “a wall of steel,” earned Davis the NEC Offensive Player of the Year award.

Penn State, under head coach Jake Scott (now in his second year), has emerged as a formidable contender in the Big Ten. The Nittany Lions finished 10‑2 last season, earning a berth in the Big Ten Championship game before falling to the Ohio State Buckeyes. Penn State’s offense has traditionally relied on a balanced attack, but they have recently leaned heavily on their rushing game, propelled by a 1,300‑yard season from senior running back Malik “Mamba” Willis. Penn State’s 2024 offensive line was ranked third in the conference for rushing efficiency, and the team’s run defense was one of the best in the Big Ten, allowing an average of 118 rushing yards per game.

The matchup at Beaver Stadium is therefore a classic “run versus run” duel, with the difference being the level of competition. Penn State’s defense has faced high‑tempo, power‑running FBS teams all year, whereas Villanova’s offense has honed its craft against NEC and a few select FBS opponents. The question for the Wildcats is whether the familiarity and consistency of the run game will translate into an effective counter to a stout Penn State defense.

The Strategic Chessboard

Villanova’s Game Plan

Coach D’Ambrosio has highlighted the importance of the “no‑huddle, power‑running” approach that has become the hallmark of Villanova’s identity. He plans to spread the field with a double‑back full‑back setup, using the speed of Jalen “Quick” Robinson, the team’s best running back, in the interior lanes to create gaps. The Wildcats will rely heavily on their zone‑read concept, encouraging the quarterback to either run or pitch the ball to the backfield. This strategy not only plays to the strengths of their offensive line but also keeps the defense guessing and can wear down a fast‑twitching Penn State run defense.

Penn State’s Defense

Defensive coordinator Nick Gagliano has expressed confidence in the Lions’ ability to limit the run. “Villanova’s run game is a big part of their identity, and we’ve studied their game film extensively,” Gagliano told the press. “They’re going to rely on the backfield to take them down. We’re going to set the edge, stack the box, and keep the ball from getting to their interior lanes. If we can make them work their way to the end zone, we’re in a good position.” The Nittany Lions will deploy a 4‑3 defense with a focus on creating a “brick wall” in the trenches, utilizing a heavy emphasis on tackle‑back play and aggressive pass‑rush from the defensive line.

Historical Context and Stakes

The Villanova‑Penn State series is relatively new, with the first meeting occurring in 2022 during an FBS vs. FCS matchup that ended in a 37‑14 loss for the Wildcats. Villanova’s next meeting has thus far been in the headlines as a potential “upset opportunity.” A victory would be the first for the Wildcats against an FBS opponent since 2015 when they beat New Hampshire in a close 24‑21 win. For Penn State, a loss would mean the first time they have been beaten by a non‑Power Five team in three seasons.

Both teams have an incentive beyond bragging rights. Penn State is vying for a potential #12 spot in the College Football Playoff rankings, while Villanova hopes to cement their place as the premier FCS program that can challenge the big‑name programs. The game’s implications also extend to recruiting; a Villanova win could serve as a recruiting beacon for the NEC, showcasing that a run‑heavy system can succeed at the highest levels.

Key Players to Watch

• Villanova – Jordan “The Tank” Davis – With 1,350 rushing yards and a knack for finding gaps in the defense, Davis is expected to be the most dangerous weapon for the Wildcats. His ability to pick up yards after contact could prove vital if the Penn State defense pushes the ball out of the backfield.

• Penn State – Malik “Mamba” Willis – The senior’s consistency has kept the Lions’ offense moving. Willis’s ability to break tackles and gain yards in the open field might counter the Wildcats’ run strategy.

• Villanova – Kicker Chris “Hail Mary” Hall – The Wildcats’ kicking game has been reliable this season, with a 90% success rate on field goals. A clutch kick in the fourth quarter could be decisive if the game is close.

• Penn State – Safety Khalid “The Wall” Johnson – Known for his ball‑hunting instincts, Johnson could be key in shutting down the Wildcats’ interior run game. His ability to read the backfield will be crucial as Villanova attempts to exploit any defensive weaknesses.

Betting Lines and Predictions

The betting lines put Penn State as a 23‑point favorite on the spread. The moneyline reflects Penn State’s status as a top‑15 team in the nation and Villanova’s classification as an underdog. However, the run game focus could reduce the margin of error for the Wildcats. Sports analysts argue that if Villanova’s offensive line can hold the line for 55–60 minutes, the game could remain within a 7‑point differential. The spread might close to 15‑point if the Wildcats manage to sustain drives, keep Penn State’s offense off the field, and capitalize on key turnovers.

Final Thoughts

Villanova’s run game has a proven track record of dominating ball‑control opponents. If the Wildcats can apply consistent pressure on Penn State’s front line and maintain possession, they could stay in the game for long stretches. Penn State’s defense, meanwhile, will have to remain disciplined, forcing Villanova to go into the passing game in order to create turnovers.

Regardless of the outcome, the game promises to be a high‑stakes showcase of strategy, physicality, and willpower. It’s an opportunity for the Wildcats to cement their legacy as a top FCS program that can challenge the big‑name teams. And for Penn State, a win would continue their upward trajectory toward a potential College Football Playoff berth. The field is set, the teams are ready, and the only thing left to decide is who will have the stronger legs, the smarter strategy, and the will to win.