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Chris ‘Mad Dog’ Russo obliterates Penn State’s placement in new CFP rankings

Bryce Lazenby

By Bryce Lazenby

Published:

Chris “Mad Dog” Russo is never one to shy away from spouting off a hot take. The legendary radio personality appeared on ESPN’s First Take on Wednesday to discuss the latest College Football Playoff rankings.

Russo couldn’t believe that Penn State was rated so highly. The Nittany Lions came in at No. 4, which shocked Russo considering the team again lost to Ohio State. He took exception to Penn State being ranked significantly higher than Georgia, who slotted in at No. 12.

“Penn State, which is an embarrassment in the big game, they’re the fourth best team in the country?” asked Russo. “Let’s have Penn State play Georgia and ask Vegas what the line would be. Georgia would be a 10-point favorite in that game for crying out loud.”

Penn State is 8-1 on the season, while Indiana and BYU are both undefeated and ranked lower in the CFP rankings. The Nittany Lions have routinely been roasted for failing to win big games, especially against Ohio State.

First Take host Stephen A. Smith agreed with Russo for the most part, but did defend Penn State’s performance against the Buckeyes.

“You act like they lost 50-0,” said Smith. “I mean, they lost 20-13. I mean, I understand their offense wasn’t impressive at all, but damn, they lost 20-13.”

The Nittany Lions have games against Purdue, Minnesota, and Maryland remaining on the schedule. With Ohio State owning the tiebreaker over Penn State, and Indiana and Oregon both remaining undefeated, the Nittany Lions will likely need an at-large spot to reach the CFP.

Bryce Lazenby

Bryce Lazenby covers college football for Saturday Tradition. A Nashville native, his previous stops include FanSided, Dimers, and The Leaf-Chronicle.