Penn State kicks off the football season against Football Championship Series (FCS) opponent Indiana State on Saturday. Here is what you need to know about the Sycamores heading into the game at Beaver Stadium.

Team: Indiana State Sycamores (Finished last season at 6-5)
Conference: Missouri Valley Football Conference
Head Coach: Trent Miles (7-27 record in four seasons)
Series History: This is the first ever meeting of the teams.
Players to look for: QB Ronnie Fouch, DL Ben Obaseki, LB Jacolby Washington
Prediction: Penn State wins 41-13

Penn State should have little trouble handling Indiana State in this game. The Sycamores gave up almost 30 points per game last season, and that was to FCS opponents. Also take into consideration the fact that Joe Paterno always has the Nittany Lions ready for their first game (they have won 18 of their last 20), and this game could turn into a blowout.

Last year, Trent Miles coached the Sycamores to their first winning season since 1996. Running back Darius Gates was the second-leading rusher in the country last season, helping Indiana State to a healthy 31.9 points per game last season. However, Gates graduated, leaving quarterback Ronnie Fouch with little experience in the backfield. Fouch will be forced into throwing the ball, which will be risky against Penn State’s vastly experienced secondary.

The main point of emphasis for the Nittany Lions will be the dual play of Rob Bolden and Matt McGloin. With an outmatched defense to throw against, the situation may not resolve itself before the Alabama game. Also, look for Silas Redd to have a good game against a team that gave up over 200 yards per game on the ground last year. Overall, Penn State should score early and often against Indiana State. Bench players should get plenty of time in this game, leading to a 41-13 Penn State victory.