Penn State vs. Notre Dame: Best Bets & Winning Parlays
The College Football Playoff semifinals kick off tonight, and we’ve got a showdown worth clearing your schedule for. No. 6 Penn State and No. 7 Notre Dame face off in the Orange Bowl at Hard Rock Stadium, and let’s be honest, this one feels like it’s going to deliver. These two historic programs haven’t met since 2007, and with the all-time series deadlocked at 9-9-1, bragging rights are just the beginning. Both teams enter with impressive 13-win seasons, and their dominant defenses set the stage for a hard-fought, low-scoring battle.
For Notre Dame, head coach Marcus Freeman has orchestrated a remarkable 12-game winning streak, capped by a stunning 23-10 win over Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. Meanwhile, James Franklin’s Penn State squad has bulldozed its way through SMU and Boise State to earn a spot in this heavyweight clash. The winner punches their ticket to Atlanta for the National Championship and a chance to cement their legacy.
This game isn’t just about stats or records—it’s loaded with drama. Notre Dame is battling a flu outbreak that’s sidelined key players, and Penn State’s star defensive end Abdul Carter is a game-time decision after a nasty shoulder injury. Add to that the contrast in styles: Notre Dame’s grind-it-out offense versus Penn State’s knack for big plays. It’s a clash of titans, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. So, whether you’re tuning in for the tradition, the chaos, or just to make your wallet a little fatter, let’s dive into the bets that could make this Orange Bowl showdown even sweeter.
Top 5 Bets for Penn State vs. Notre Dame
- Penn State -3.5 (-110)
Penn State’s defense has been stingier than your buddy who “forgets” his wallet every time you go out. They’re giving up just 11.9 points per game, and Notre Dame’s offense has been shaky against top-tier opponents. Plus, the Nittany Lions are at their best at home—or close enough, given that Miami’s a much shorter flight than Indiana. Drew Allar is finding his groove, and with Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen in the backfield, Penn State’s offense should be able to cover this spread. - Under 48.5 total points (-110)
These defenses are built like brick walls. Penn State is allowing just 11.9 ppg, and Notre Dame isn’t far behind at 17.5 ppg. The Fighting Irish offense has struggled in big games, and with cold weather looming, don’t expect fireworks. Penn State’s ground game is likely to eat up the clock, which means fewer possessions and fewer points. Betting the under here feels safer than leaving your phone unlocked at a party. - Nick Singleton over 72.5 rushing yards (-115)
Singleton is a workhorse, averaging over 80 yards per game, and Notre Dame’s run defense isn’t exactly impenetrable. With the Nittany Lions likely leaning heavily on the run, especially in colder weather, Singleton should get plenty of touches. If you’re looking for a prop bet that feels as solid as a fresh golf grip, this is it. - Tyler Warren anytime touchdown scorer (+225)
In a game where touchdowns will be rarer than a hole-in-one, red zone efficiency is key. Warren has 7 touchdowns this season and is a go-to target for Drew Allar in tight spaces. Notre Dame’s defense has been generous to tight ends this year, so don’t be surprised if Warren adds another score to his highlight reel. - Riley Leonard under 195.5 passing yards (-110)
Leonard’s passing game has been about as reliable as a weather app in Miami. Penn State’s secondary is ranked third nationally, and if that wasn’t enough, the cold and windy conditions won’t do Leonard any favors. Notre Dame will likely lean on their run game, leaving Leonard with fewer opportunities to air it out. This bet feels like a lock.
While these pre-game bets are solid, live, in-game betting offers even better chances, and BetMagic’s real-time analytics give you that winning edge. It’s like having a buddy who’s already seen the final score whispering in your ear—don’t bet without it.
Parlays to Up the Ante
3-Leg Parlay (+600)
- Penn State -3.5
- Under 48.5 total points
- Nick Singleton over 72.5 rushing yards
Reasoning: If Penn State controls the tempo with their run game, they’ll cover the spread while keeping the score under. Singleton’s yardage ties it all together—if he hits, the rest likely will too. This parlay is like a perfectly mixed drink: smooth, balanced, and satisfying when it pays off.
2-Leg Parlay (+260)
- Tyler Warren anytime touchdown
- Riley Leonard under 195.5 passing yards
Reasoning: This parlay leans into the game’s likely grind-it-out nature. Warren’s red zone presence makes him a strong bet to score, while Leonard’s struggles against elite defenses should keep his passing numbers in check. If you’re looking for a parlay that’s more reliable than your fantasy football team, this is the one.
Full List of Picks & Reasoning
- Penn State -3.5 (-110): A smothering defense, home-field edge, and improving offense make this a strong play.
- Under 48.5 total points (-110): Elite defenses, clock-eating offenses, and cold weather create the perfect storm for the under.
- Nick Singleton over 72.5 rushing yards (-115): A high workload and favorable conditions set Singleton up for success.
- Tyler Warren anytime touchdown scorer (+225): Red zone dominance and a great matchup make this a sneaky-good bet.
- Riley Leonard under 195.5 passing yards (-110): Against Penn State’s secondary, Leonard’s passing game is in for a long night.
Now that you’re armed with the best bets and parlays, it’s time to play smart. To maximize your winnings, BetMagic’s live, in-game analytics provide up-to-the-second data. Sign up and start making smarter, real-time bets today!
Bet responsibly, enjoy the game, and here’s to a night of big plays and even bigger wins. Let’s go!
