Penn State rooting guide to make Big Ten championship game. Before the Nittany Lions’ preferred scenario is laid out, it’s worth considering that it might be better for them n

Penn State's chances of making the Big Ten championship game are low, but the Nittany Lions are still firmly in the Playoff mix.

Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter has 17½ tackles for loss, the second-most in the FBS, and eight sacks to match the third-most in the Big Ten. He has a challenging matchup this week with Minnesota left tackle Aireontae Ersery across from him in a battle of projected first-round NFL draft picks.

Penn State is in prime position for a spot in the new 12-team College Football Playoff and still in the mix to make the Big Ten championship game.

With Penn State’s strong push for a spot in the College Football Playoff still a couple of wins from completion, the biggest roadblock to a bid for the Nittany Lions in this favorable final third of their schedule has arrived: a trip to Minnesota.