Peach pairing pits Rebels vs. Nittany Lions

ATLANTA — The Peach Bowl matchup of No. 10 Penn State and No. 11 Ole Miss would be a good pairing in the 2024 season’s College Football Playoff, when that event expands from the four-team format that began in 2014 to a 12-team bonanza.

For now, the goal for both is building momentum for a run at next season’s national championship — and even without playoff drama, the showdown between Penn State’s top-ranked defense and the Rebels’ up-tempo offense, led by quarterback Jaxson Dart, help make Saturday’s game an attractive sellout that will be televised by ESPN.

They’re set for a noon kickoff at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the home of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and the annual Southeastern Conference championship game.

Ole Miss has yet to make an appearance in the SEC title contest, but this year’s Rebels (10-2) still have a chance to make their mark as they wrap up the season.

“It will never be forgotten, getting that 11th win, something that has never been done in program history,” said Rebels wide receiver Jordan Watkins. “It’s been a great motivating factor for us, and I think it will take a lot of momentum going into next season.”

Penn State (10-2) is making its first Peach Bowl appearance, and coach James Franklin — a decade into his tenure with the Nittany Lions — is motivated to complete the program’s collection of New Year’s Six bowl victories.

Franklin, who gained SEC experience while taking Vanderbilt to new heights as head coach of the Commodores from 2011-13, has played up the opportunity for his Big Ten team in a trip to the Deep South.

“We’re excited we’re in SEC territory,” Penn State running back Nicholas Singleton said. “Coach Franklin always preaches about that. But we’re ready.”