Why is this even called a rivalry? I am not too sure why, but Penn State has beaten Ohio State more than Michigan in recent years, so maybe that it is. Just want to point out that I did say Michigan was overrated and overhyped already after last week. Two things proved this: A. Minnesota blew a lead to Maryland and lost in overtime and B. Little brother Michigan State knocked off Michigan AGAIN, putting Jim Harbaugh at a combined 1-6 at home against Michigan State and Ohio State. Anyway, time to dive in.
Fields, Teague III and the Offense
True balance proved superior in this game. After criticism of the run game a week ago, Master Teague III showed out. Trey Sermon provided a nice change-of-pace role out of the backfield, and Ohio State dominated the line of scrimmage on a night Justin Fields did not necessarily run the ball in. Fields had five incompletions, the top receiving duo in the country dominated again. Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson are two of the best in the entire nation, and they will be an issue for teams moving forward
Buckeye’s Lockdown Defense Stood Strong
Speaking of balance, Penn State completely lacked that. Under 50 rushing yards, and a suspect (at times) passing game. Ohio State pressured Sean Clifford, picked him off late, and proved they have a strong defense returning again this year. 25 points looks like a lot, but the game was fairly out of reach from start to finish. They did stop all Penn State two-point conversions, too.
Special Teams…
This was an area of concern all night. Not only did TWO DIFFERENT kickers miss a field goal, they missed them from UNDER 25 YARDS! Those are relatively easy chip shots, so field goals could make or break some games (and this season) for Ohio State. Basically, score touchdowns at all costs necessary.
Breaking It All Down
The offense looked great once again. The defense looked rather dominant at times, too. As for special teams, not so much. Expect Ohio State to continue their dominance at home versus Rutgers. This game should give any and all Ohio State kickers plenty of opportunities to correct their kicking miscues this week.
Next Week: vs 1-1 Rutgers
Image: CBS Sports
