MIDDAY REPORT: Picking 17-16 in Illinois; Chisley verdict expected; Phils fight on

FOR Nittany Lions' fans, it's been a long week of talking about football.

What worked and what didn't work, mostly, at Michigan.

The fans, once so optimistic, turned negative as shown in Web polling that shows at this writing that they're picking Illinois (52 percent to 39 percent.)

Say it ain't so, Joe. Say it will turn around, starting Saturday at Illinois.

It's time for the midday report pick of the game, and we've been listening all week.

In our view, it comes down to whether the Nittany Lions can hold onto the ball and make some plays, rather than watch the defense make plays.

Stop the fumbles and stay in the game. It really might be that simple.

We're calling it 17-16 in a game that will go down to the wire in an orange stadium on the Big Ten Network. And when it ends we think Penn State will have the 17 and a win that can be a springboard to a tough Big Ten October schedule.

That's what it says here.

We'll update the game online for you Saturday, considering many can't even watch it because the Big Ten Network is unavailable. Jeff Rice and Guy Cipriano will provide our full coverage.

Look for it, and thanks for joinnig us for the midday report on this sunny and warm Friday in Happy Valley.

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WE expect a verdict today in the LaVon Chisley trial.

Did he help himself on the stand? The jurors will determine that.

Follow Pete Bosak's coverage today and look for updates and the verdict when we have it.

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RALLY towels are out in force in Philadelphia and Phillies fans are believing.

The Mets' meltdown continues and the two teams are tied in the division as there are wild scrambles in baseball for playoff spots.

Cole Hamels takes the mound for the Phillies against Washington tonight, and the Mets face Florida.

Three games remain. Can it happen?

We've started a poll for you nervous Phillies fans. Go ahead and vote and comment.

Our other pick today is that the Fightins' will make the playoffs. Really.

Stay tuned, of course.

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OUR best bet for the weekend is the Dutch Fall Festival in Aaronsburg.

Enjoy it Saturday or Sunday, and make sure to try the great food.

Have a great Friday and weekend, everyone, and thanks for reading us.

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Look for the midday report from the newsroom each weekday. Send questions, comments or suggestions to bheisse@centredaily.com.