Florida Citrus Bowl : Penn State and Clemson Meet

Penn State’s reign as national champion officially comes to an end today as the injury-riddled Nittany Lions play Clemson in the 42nd Florida Citrus Bowl.

Out of contention for No. 1 on New Year’s Day for the first time in three years, Penn State will carry an 8-3 record and No. 20 ranking into the game. Clemson, Atlantic Coast Conference champion, is 9-2 and ranked 14th.

Blair Thomas, Penn State’s leading rusher and receiver, will miss the game with a sprained right knee he sustained during an informal workout three weeks ago. Freshmen Gary Brown and Leroy Thompson will replace him.