The Lantern - September 27 2018

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E L T BAT WYATT CROSHER Assistant Sports Editor crosher.1@osu.edu The latest edition in the Ohio State-Penn State saga will continue on Saturday when the two best offenses in the country battle in Happy Valley.

The Nittany Lions come in as the topranked scoring offense in the country with 55.5 points per game. Ohio State comes in second by only a point behind with 54.5.

These powerhouse offenses headline the

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PREDICTIONS FROM THE LANTERN STAFF

clash of two undefeated top 10 teams that have come together for some of the most memorable moments of the past two seasons, including a game-winning blocked field goal for a touchdown by Penn State two years ago, and an 11-point comeback with less than five minutes to go led by J.T. Barrett at Ohio Stadium last season.

Add that to the game being on the road at Happy Valley, No. 4 Ohio State likely won’t see a matchup this challenging again all season.

“That’s one of the tops in the country.

Very loud and the fans are very into it just like our Horseshoe,” Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer said. “You’ve got to be ready for that kind of environment.”

No. 9 Penn State comes in off back-toback 63-point games, the last being a 6324 victory against Illinois. The top-scoring offense in the nation ranks No. 16 in total offensive production, with a top 10 rushing attack at 275 yards per game on the ground.

Redshirt senior quarterback Trace McSorley leads the Nittany Lions offense as the program leader in total touchdowns

with 77. This season, McSorley has 998 total yards and 14 touchdowns — eight through the air and six on the ground — and two interceptions while competing 53.7 percent of his passes.

Meyer praised McSorley’s competitive edge.

“A winner, a guy that can do it all and a competitor,” Meyer said.

Meyer also complimented the play of junior running back Miles Sanders, who is No. 6 in the NCAA with 495 rushing yards, and has five touchdowns in the first four

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B1G TRAP

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Despite an early season loss to No. 5 Oklahoma, Ohio State seemed to be well on its way to another College Football Playoff appearance, beating No. 2 Penn State in a thriller on Oct. 28, 2017. That is, until the Buckeyes traveled to Kinnick Stadium In Iowa City and fell to Iowa 55-24. This season, with another highly ranked matchup with Penn State ahead for Ohio State, here are the games that could be what the Hawkeyes were last season: a trap game.

Nov. 10 | MICHIGAN STATE EDWARD SUTELAN Editor-in-Chief sutelan.1@osu.edu Michigan State has upset Ohio State in some key moments in the past seven matchups between the two teams.

The Buckeyes lost to the Spartans for the first time since the millenium flipped from the 1900s to the 2000s in 2011 when Michigan State won 10-7 in Columbus.

Two years later, Michigan State kept a previously undefeated and second-ranked Ohio State from a likely BCS Championship Game appearance with a 34-24 upset in the 2013 Big Ten Championship.

Another two years pass, and Michigan State, again, kept Ohio State out of the College Football Playoff with a stunning walk-off field goal in Columbus to win 17-14 in 2015, later going on to win the Big Ten. One thing has remained constant though about the losses for the Buckeyes: they’ve never come in East Lansing, Michigan.

Despite winning three of the past seven meetings, the Spartans have not defeated Ohio State in front of their home fans

since 1999. In fact, since the first matchup in East Lansing, Ohio State has won 16 of 21 clashes in front of a green and white-clad crowd. Michigan State’s longest home winning streak against the Buckeyes is just two games, while Ohio State is currently running a six-game winning streak.

But this rivalry between the two teams has gotten interesting in recent years. Whenever Ohio State has appeared to be a clear favorite, Michigan State always finds a way to make it close or even come away with the upset.

No. 4 Ohio State will enter the matchup this year as the heavy favorite over No. 21 Michigan State barring a collapse by the Buckeyes or an unexpected resurgence by the Spartans, who already sit at 2-1 on the year.

Michigan State has not looked the part of a dominant team this season. Quarterback Brian Lewerke is completing 66 percent of his passes, but has a 5-to-4 touchdown-to-interception ratio.

The running backs are averaging just 3.3 yards per carry and have only scored four rushing touchdowns.

However, in previous meet-

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ings, Michigan State has almost always been considered the underdog. Rarely, if ever, have the Spartans appeared to be the clear favorite.

Yet they seem to always be that one team that gives Ohio State trouble when everything is going right for the Buckeyes.

Ohio State has a clear path to a championship? Michigan State seems to get in the way, or at least provide the Buckeyes with a worthy challenge.

Even in 2016 when Michigan State entered the Nov. 20 matchup with a 3-7 record and 1-6 conference record compared to Ohio State’s 9-1 and 6-1 marks, it was only a failed two-point conversion with 4:41 remaining and a later interception that kept Michigan State from beating the Buckeyes.

On paper, Ohio State should handle the Spartans. The Buckeyes are viewed as a national title contender and the Big Ten frontrunner. The Spartans are viewed as a fringe top-25 team.

But in Spartan Stadium on Nov. 10, Ohio State could again be on upset watch.

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Michigan State then-junior running back LJ Scott (3) leaps past Bowling Green defensive back Cameron Jefferies (18) during the game against Bowling Green on Sept. 2. The Spartans defeated the Falcons, 35-10.

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COLIN GAY Sports Editor gay.125@osu.edu Historically, Ohio State has never had any issues with Purdue.

The Buckeyes have won 39 of 55 matchups against the Boilermakers, winning both games against the team in head coach Urban Meyer’s tenure — a 29-22 win in Columbus in 2012 and a 56-0 beatdown in Indiana in 2013.

Based on Purdue’s record through the first four games of the season, Ohio State seems to be on a similar path when it faces the Boilermakers on Oct. 20.

Purdue has lost three of its first four games of the season, including an opening conference-game loss to Northwestern on Aug. 30.

However, a trend seems to be continuing that the Boilermakers began last season.

After finishing the 2017 season with a 7-6 record, with one-score losses to No. 16 Louisville and No. 7 Wisconsin, Purdue’s three losses in four games to start the 2018 season have each been by one score and are carrying a plus-9 score differential heading into the fifth game of the season despite posting a record of 1-3.

The Boilermakers entered the win column on Saturday, defeating No. 23 Boston College for the team’s first ranked win since beating No. 23 Illinois 21-14 on Oct. 22, 2011.

With redshirt senior quarterback David Blough, the Boilermakers have been doing the same thing all season. Blough completed 21-of-28 pass attempts for 296 yards and three touchdowns, extending his completion percentage to 71.6 percent with six touchdowns to one interception.

Thursday, September 27, 2018 | The Lantern | 3

For Blough, it helps to have a receiver like freshman Rondale Moore in the passing game. He led the team in the win over Boston College with eight receptions for 110 yards, bringing in his third and fourth touchdown receptions of the season.

Like many teams before it, Boston College could not get its running game going against the Purdue defense. Despite allowing 138.3 yards per game, the Boilermaker defense grants opposing backs an average of 3.6 yards per carry, with the Eagles averaging 3.4 yards per carry on Saturday.

Linebacker Cornel Jones has made a major impact in the middle, leading the team with eight tackles for loss, including 2.5 sacks through the first four games.

Ever since Jeff Brohm became the head coach at Purdue prior to the start of the 2017 season, the Boilermakers have gone 1-3 against ranked opponents, never losing by more than 18 points to an opponent.

After recording a 4-2 record at Ross-Ade Stadium, the Boilermakers are still looking for that signature win for Brohm’s tenure.

After facing No. 9 Penn State on Saturday, Ohio State will not have another chance at a ranked opponent until Nov. 10 against Michigan State. If the Buckeyes beat the Nittany Lions on Saturday, Ohio State could have a period of time, with games against Indiana and Minnesota, during which it wins even if mistakes are made.

With Purdue’s track record against ranked opponents and its ability to win at home under Brohm, Ohio State must have Oct. 20 circled on its calendar as a trap game.

PENN STATE FROM 1

games. Sanders ran the ball for 200 yards against Illinois, helping break open a game that remained close for much of the first half.

Meyer said the Penn State team this year is very much the same team that lost to the Buckeyes by a point last year.

“Offensive line is better. And that running back is really good,” Meyer said. “We don’t see much difference at all. Scheme’s very similar to what they’ve done in the past and obviously the quarterback’s the guy that makes it go.”

McSorley is the major threat Ohio State will be looking to contain in Happy Valley. The redshirt senior brings a dual-threat ability and energy to the offense that becomes even more impactful in big games.

In last season’s Fiesta Bowl, McSorley completed 78 percent of his throws and amassed 402 yards of offense and two touchdowns in Penn State’s win over Washington. A year before, he threw for 382 yards and four touchdowns in the Big Ten championship win against Wisconsin.

He also has never lost a collegiate start at home.

Sophomore linebacker Pete Werner said he sees McSorley’s winning attitude in the film.

“He has a lot of toughness. He’s a great quarterback — the best one, most likely, we’re going to see this year,” Werner said. “He’s just a guy that has a drive to win games.”

The Nittany Lions defense ranks No. 8 in sacks per game with 3.5. Redshirt junior defensive end Shareef Miller leads the team with three, and 12 separate players have recorded a sack on the year.

Redshirt sophomore quarterback Dwayne Haskins said

Nov. 17 | MARYLAND WYATT CROSHER Assistant Sports Editor crosher.1@osu.edu No. 9 Penn State might jump off the page. So might No. 14 Michigan. No. 21 Michigan State even shows up as an opponent to highlight on the schedule for Ohio State.

But Maryland? Maryland just slips right through the cracks.

Don’t sleep on the Terrapins so soon though. They sit at 3-1, are tied for the third-best record in the Big Ten and have a win over a ranked opponent — 34-29 against now-No. 18 Texas.

The offense lives on its running game, with a trio of backs rushing the ball more than 25 times thus far. Senior Ty Johnson, redshirt freshman Anthony McFarland and sophomore Tayon Fleet-Davis have combined for 739 yards and seven touchdowns this season on the ground, with Johnson and McFarland each averaging more than seven yards per carry.

Maryland has also found its way through the air with redshirt freshman quarterback Kasim Hill. A four-star prospect according to 247Sports’ composite rankings, Hill has been a serviceable quarterback in his first year under center, throw-

ing for 516 yards and three touchdowns with only one interception.

For a Maryland offense that lives on the run game, Hill’s stats don’t jump off the page, but they allow for enough of a threat to open up the Terrapins’ run game, which could find more space with the lack of junior defensive end Nick Bosa.

It is too early to know if Bosa will be ready for a game in November, but even with him in the game, Ohio State allowed three runs of more than 70 yards, two of which were to an Oregon State team that is far from impressive.

The Buckeyes looked like a pass-first offense when redshirt sophomore quarterback Dwayne Haskins ignited against Tulane, while sophomore and redshirt junior running backs J.K. Dobbins and Mike Weber struggled to get much going.

Maryland offers more trouble in the run game, allowing only 104 yards per game on the ground, No. 19 in the nation.

Stats aside, because Ohio State is clearly the better team on paper, Maryland offers the Buckeyes the toughest placement on their schedule.

Ohio State travels to College Park on Nov. 17, the secondto-last week of the regular sea-

son, in between a road matchup against Michigan State and home game against the Wolverines.

The back-to-back road game is the ultimate trap-game trope, and it is the same one Ohio State fell to last year in its brutal defeat to Iowa that cost the team a shot at the College Football Playoff.

Michigan State is a large enough opponent to give the Buckeyes a difficult matchup, leaving them vulnerable against the Terrapins a week later. More importantly, the Michigan game the week after takes a lot of attention away from a Maryland game many will see as a pushover before the huge rivalry matchup.

The Terrapins have proven their ability to upset strong teams just four games into the season, and have proven to be strong running the ball and strong defending the run.

Maryland offers the hardest road game on the schedule strictly by being the game before Michigan and after Michigan State. But it helps that the Terrapins might actually have some weapons to make Ohio State’s in-between game that much harder.

he is expecting a strong defense in the Nittany Lions. in college football, and will face an Ohio State defense “Experienced players, really sound defensively,” missing its best player, junior defensive end Nick Bosa.

Haskins said. “Yeah, they make a couple of mistakes but The Buckeyes did not get real game-time experience every defense does. When they get things rolling, they’re for the Bosa-less defensive line against Tulane, but the pretty good.” line still has plenty of talent without him.

Penn State ranks No. 29 in passing defense at 173.3 This game may very well come down to the cool and yards per game, while allowing the 48th most rushing collected Haskins vs. the energetic, enthusiastic McSoryards per game with 172.5. ley, and from what 2018 has shown, I give the edge to: Prediction Haskins.

Ohio State might have won five of the past six meetings Yes, McSorley has proved his ability in the crunch against Penn State, but the series has dramatically picked time, but his lackluster completion percentage and lack up in intensity since 2016. Happy Valley is going to come of strong opponent this year gives me more worries than out loud, and Haskins is going to be in the most hostile the Ohio State quarterback who breaks a record with each environment he has faced since Michigan a season ago. new start.

Haskins will have to be as strong and composed as he This is a matchup that could go either way, and one that has been all season for Ohio State to win, while McSor- could be a shootout. In either case, Haskins has sold me ley will need to bring the energy and vocal leadership as the guy who can get it done, and if his 16 touchdowns, he’s known for in big games to give the Nittany Lions an 1,194 yards and single interception haven’t sold you, a advantage. winning performance against the No. 9 team in the counThe run games have been strong points for both teams try on Saturday will. overall this season, but Penn State’s has been clicking more as of late, as sophomore and redshirt junior running backs J.K. Dobbins and Mike Weber each ran for less than 60 yards each against Tulane.

Be Someone’s 4830-D Knightsbridge Blvd, Columbus, OH Penn State’s weak point on the defensive side Superhero! has been the run, and the Buckeyes will have to 4830-D Knightsbridge Blvd, Columbus, OH exploit that to allow Haskins to open up the passing game.

Ohio State has the stronger win under its belt, a 40-28 victory against TCU, and that added experience could help against a Penn State team that has not faced a ranked opponent this year.

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McSorley brings Ohio State familiar, yet challenging look COLIN GAY Sports Editor gay.125@osu.edu Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer knows what it’s like to run an offense with a dual-threat quarterback.

He describes it as an offense playing with 11 1/2 players, utilizing a quarterback that has the tendency to tuck and run on an option, along with an accurate throwing ability in the passing game.

This is an offense that Meyer is familiar with. This is an offense Meyer ran with former Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett at the helm for the previous four seasons.

“We’ve had a lot of yards around here over the last years and years and years because of having that ability to do that,” Meyer said.

“So that’s a real threat. And that’s something that you have to game plan for.”

This is an offense Ohio State has already faced this season with then-No. 15 TCU and sophomore quarterback Shawn Robinson.

The Buckeyes were successful in stopping his running ability, limiting a runner who has averaged over six yards per carry in each of his three other games to seven yards on eight rushes.

Trace McSorley is different.

With two games having started

against Ohio State under his belt — throwing at least one touchdown and recording a rushing touchdown in each one of those games — the redshirt senior quarterback leads a Penn State offense that paces the nation in scoring, averaging 55.5 points per game.

Through four games, McSorley has thrown eight touchdowns while recording six more touchdowns on the ground, averaging a career-high 5.7 yards per carry.

“Any time you are facing explosive athletes, a quarterback that is as good as there is in college football at what he does, there’s a cumulative impact of them running the style of offense that they use,” co-defensive coordinator and safeties coach Alex Grinch said.

“There’s multiple plays on any given down to defend.”

Grinch understands there are multiple aspects of a dual-threat option offense to be aware of defensively. He said it is difficult to “get numbers at the point of attack” when defenders at every position have to be prepared for multiple plays on any given down.

With the running ability of both McSorley and junior running back Miles Sanders, Penn State has what Ohio State had last year: Barrett and the combination of the two running backs still on the roster — J.K. Dobbins and Mike Weber.

Sophomore linebacker Pete

Werner has had to defend this type of offense before. From an outside linebacker’s perspective, he said he’s going to have to “spy” McSorley, making sure he watches and is ready in the event of a quarterback option.

“You just have to keep your eyes in the right place and you can’t get over leveraged,” Werner said. “Can’t get sucked into the line and not be able to get off and get to the quarterback.”

For the defensive line, redshirt junior defensive tackle Robert Landers said after the TCU game the unit has to “cage the pocket,” limit the quarterback from getting outside the pocket, making plays with his feet and therefore, extending offensive drives by rolling out left and right.

Penn State’s offensive approach is Ohio State’s worst nightmare.

The Nittany Lions thrive off big plays, whether they are long runs or pass plays by which McSorley shows off his confidence and ability to throw.

This is something that the Ohio State defense is prepared for Saturday.

“They live off the big play, so if we do the right thing and focus on our jobs, we will give up that opportunity to make big plays for them,” Werner said. “After that, they don’t have much.”

Grinch feels as though the Ohio State defense has not reached its

What has happened thus far in 2018: Michigan opened its year up in a highly anticipated matchup against then-No. 12 Notre Dame, but fell to the Fighting Irish on the road in a 24-17 loss. The Wolverines have since taken care of business, beating Western Michigan, Southern Methodist and Nebraska by a combined score of 15033. Again boasting one of the top defenses in the league, Michigan has allowed just 14.3 points per game while its offense has averaged 41.8 points and 420.8 yards per game.

Impact Player: The easy answer would be junior defensive lineman Rashan Gary. A 2017 member of the first team All-Big Ten lineup, Gary appears destined to be taken early in the 2019 NFL Draft and will be a tormenter to offensive lines throughout the season. But if Michigan is going to have a successful season, junior quarterback Shea Patterson will have to be the team’s impact player. The Wol-

verines have not received consistent production from their starting quarterbacks in the past, but adding the former fourth-overall prospect in the nation according to 247Sports’ 2016 Composite Rankings — Gary ranked No. 1 — could help the offense find a reliable man under center like the team has not seen in years. Patterson was just 20-of-30 with an interception and no touchdowns against Notre Dame, though he has completed 41-of-57 passes since then with seven touchdowns and only one interception.

Strengths: Entering the year, there were no questions asked about whether Michigan’s defense would remain the reason the team is competitive. While it could not totally ballast the team against Notre Dame, the defense did nearly all it could. The Fighting Irish averaged just 2.8 yards per carry and only 170 passing yards.

With Gary, defensive end Chase Winovich, first team All-Big Ten linebacker Devin Bush and a stout

secondary, Michigan’s defense will again be counted on to keep the Wolverines in games, if not win them altogether.

Weaknesses: That defense will have to be the support group for the team because even with Patterson, Michigan lacks the offensive weapons around him to make for a truly potent offense. Wide receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones has, at times, looked the part of the former top 2017 wide receiver recruit in the country, but hauled in only 38 yards on six catches against Notre Dame. Other options like former four-star tight end Zach Gentry and four-star wideout Nico Collins give Patterson additional targets, but need to prove themselves against top competition — though Patterson did connect with Collins on a 52-yard pass in the season opener.

CASEY CASCALDO | PHOTO EDITOR

Ohio State linebacker Pete Werner (20) takes to the field in the first half of the game against Rutgers on Sept. 8.

ceiling. He said the standard is not even close to being met, and the goal remains the same: to hold the opposing offense to one less point than Ohio State scores.

However, he said his defense strives for much more.

After four games, Ohio State has allowed 17 points per game, allowed opposing running backs to average 3.8 yards per carry and allowed opposing quarterbacks to complete 53.6 percent of pass attempts.

For Grinch, heading into Penn State, facing the top scoring offense in the country, this is the time for the Ohio State defense to show what it can do.

“We have not played our best game. We believe that,” Grinch said. “The personnel that we have suggests we can be better, we need to be better, we should be better.”

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Michigan junior quarterback Shea Patterson (2) runs the ball against SMU in the first half on Sept. 15 at Michigan Stadium.

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Then redshirt freshman quarterback Peyton Ramsey (3) runs the ball during the Indiana-Michigan game on Oct. 14, 2017 at Memorial Stadium. Michigan defeated IU 27-20.

What has happened thus far in 2018: The Indiana Hoosiers (3-1, 0-1 Big Ten) opened its 2018 campaign with wins over Florida International, Virginia and Ball State, and a two-touchdown loss at home to No. 21 Michigan State. The Hoosiers defeated Florida International in the season opener on the back of three touchdown passes from redshirt sophomore quarterback Peyton Ramsey and a pick-six from senior defensive back Jonathan Crawford. Next, the Hoosiers took down Virginia at home thanks to freshman running back Stevie Scott’s 204 yards on 31 carries. The following week, they hosted Ball State, where the Hoosiers exploded for 21 second-quarter points en route to a 38-10 victory. In Week 4, Indiana found itself in an early 21-7 hole to the Spartans and clawed back within one point before having the door slammed in its face by a 75-yard end around for a touchdown with just over three minutes to play.

Impact Player: Redshirt sophomore quarterback Peyton Ramsey is the clear leader of the Hoosier’s offense. Ramsey has completed 72 percent of his passes through the first four games, with seven touchdowns and four interceptions. In addition to an efficient passing game, Ramsey has shown the ability to use his legs as a weapon as well, coming in as the team’s second leading rusher, compiling 163 yards on 41 attempts. However, Ramsey does not throw the ball down the field, as evidenced by his 8.53 yards per completion, which is ranked among the lowest in the nation at No. 122.

Freshman running back Stevie Scott is the other main catalyst of the Hoosier’s offense.

Scott ranks No. 21 in the nation in rushing yards per game at 101.5 per contest. On the

Thursday, September 27, 2018 | The Lantern | 5

The Hoosiers Location Head Coach 2017 Record 2018 Record Record vs. OSU

Bloomington, Indiana

Tom Allen 5-7 (2-7 Big Ten) 3-1 (0-1 Big Ten) 12-73-5

season, Scott has already racked up over 400 yards, rushing at 5.08 yards per carry and three touchdowns.

Strengths: The strength of Indiana comes from its defense. The Hoosiers rank No. 13 in the nation in pass defense, only allowing 156.3 yards per game through the air. Additionally, the Hoosier defense has proved to be formidable on third down, ranking No. 37 in the nation, just ahead of Georgia (No. 38) and Penn State (No. 42). The Hoosiers allow opposing offenses to convert on third downs at a 32.7 percent rate.

Indiana’s defense is tied with Alabama for No. 29 in the nation with 7.5 tackles for loss per game.

Weaknesses: Though they rank highly in a number of defensive categories, the Hoosiers are more susceptible against the run, ranking No. 86 in the NCAA. However, the main weakness of the 2018 Indiana squad is clearly the offense.

Since the departure of former head coach Kevin Wilson, who is now the co-offensive coordinator at Ohio State, in late 2016, the offense has gone from a great strength of the program to one of its primary concerns. Ramsey’s inability to throw the ball down the field, and instead opting for mostly underneath routes, hurts the big-play ability of the offense. Additionally, the loss of Simmie Cobbs Jr. — Indiana’s top wide receiver last year — to the NFL has certainly hampered Indiana’s aerial attack.

-Charlie Militello

Illinois FIGHTING ILLINI What has happened thus far in 2018: The Fighting Illini began the season against Kent State, riding a strong second half to a 31-24 victory. In Week 2, Illinois overcame another sluggish start to gain a convincing 34-14 win against Western Illinois. After leading through the first three quarters, the Fighting Illini fell short, falling to USF 25-19 at Soldier Field in Chicago.

Illinois played Penn State in the first Big Ten matchup of the season, where they held tough through three quarters, even leading 24-21 at one point in the third quarter, before Penn State scored six consecutive touchdowns to win 63-24.

Impact Player: Freshman quarterback M.J. Rivers Jr. appears to be rising as an essential part of head coach Lovie Smith’s offense. After throwing two touchdowns in his debut against Western Illinois in place of injured quarterback A.J. Bush, Rivers has shown continued improvement on the field against strong opponents like Penn State. As he becomes more comfortable within the offense, he could continue to improve, having already set career highs for himself in total offense in each of the three games he has appeared, including 173 total yards against Penn State.

Strengths: A balanced running attack appears to be Illinois’ biggest strength this year. With a freshman quarterback at the helm, the offense has had to remain balanced and rely on a steady running attack to aleve the quarterback of pressure. The Illini rushed for 174 yards and a touchdown against Penn State, including a 51-yard run from junior Reggie Corbin. With two running backs sharing carries in Corbin and Mike Epstein, the Illini have a strength in their consistent running attack this season.

Weaknesses: The other side of the ball has not been as consistent for the Illini this season. Their defense has failed to create stops when they need them against strong opponents like USF and Penn State. Illinois gave up 591 total yards against Penn State and allowed them to convert 9-of-11 third-down attempts. It also gave up six straight touchdowns to end the game. While the Fighting Illini had two takeaways against Penn State, the Illini defense will certainly be hope for improvement as it comes off its bye week and resumes the Big Ten season.

The Fighting Illini Location Head Coach 2017 Record 2018 Record Record vs. OSU

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Champaign, Illinois

Lovie Smith 2-10 (0-9 Big Ten) 2-2 (0-1 Big Ten) 30-68

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Illinois junior linebacker Jake Hansen (35) makes a tackle during the game against Western Illinois at Memorial Stadium on Sept. 8. The Illini won 34-14.

6 | The Lantern | Thursday, September 27, 2018

Penn State NITTANY LIONS thelantern.com

CAITLIN LEE | DAILY COLLEGIAN

Penn State redshirt senior quarterback Trace McSorley (9) shakes hands after the game against Illinois at Memorial Stadium on Sept. 21, 2018.

Penn State defeated Illinois 63-24.

What has happened thus far in 2018: Even without head coach Urban Meyer for the first three games, Ohio State has not had many issues to start the 2018 season. Winning each of their first four games, including one in conference play, the Buckeyes have scored no fewer than 40 points in each game this season, averaging 599 yards of offense per game — No. 1 in the Big Ten. After allowing 31 points to Oregon State in the season opener, the Ohio State defense has allowed nine points combined against Rutgers and Tulane, while giving up 28 points to then-No. 15 TCU on Sept. 15.

Impact Player: In his first four games as the starting quarterback for Ohio State, redshirt sophomore Dwayne Haskins has made a major impact on how the Buckeyes run their offense. Instead of the run-heavy, option-based offense the team ran with J.T. Barrett, Haskins leads an Ohio State offense that leads the Big Ten in passing, averaging 365.8 passing yards per game. He is doing it with high accuracy, completing 75.7 percent of his pass attempts, and with a high touchdown rate, throwing 16 touchdowns and only one interception in 115 pass attempts.

Haskins, in four games, has redefined what the Ohio State offense is and will be for the rest of the 2018 season, something opponents have already seen in the first four games.

Strengths Offensively, a lot of areas have been clicking for Ohio State. With an offensive line that has done a good job of protecting Haskins, anchored in the middle by junior center Michael Jordan, the Buckeyes have allowed only 1.5 sacks per game. The Buckeyes also have had success

The Nittany Lions

Location Head Coach 2017 Record 2018 Record Record vs. OSU

DALANI YOUNG | PURDUE EXPONENT STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Purdue redshirt senior quarterback David Blough (11) carries the ball on a quarterback keep during Purdue’s 30-13 win over Boston College on Sept. 22.

What has happened thus far in 2018: Purdue has been better than its 1-3 record might suggest. With two losses that ended with last-second field goals, the Boilermakers’ three losses have been by a combined eight points. In losses to Northwestern and Missouri, Purdue came back from doubledigit deficits in the first half to fall short in the waning moments of each game. Purdue recorded its first win of the season against then-No. 23 Boston College, beating the Eagles by 17 on Saturday. In that win, Purdue’s defense had four interceptions and held the Eagles to a 25 percent success rate on third down. On the offensive side of the ball, redshirt senior David Blough threw three touchdowns with 296 passing yards.

Impact Player: Wide receiver Rondale Moore has exploded onto the scene as one of the nation’s standout freshmen for the Boilermakers. This season, he leads the Big Ten in receiving yards (372) and in receptions (33). He can be dangerous in the ground game as well, recording a 76-yard touchdown run against Northwestern in the season opener.

Strengths: Certain teams have an identity when it comes to their strengths in football. For Purdue, it’s the play of the quarterback. Blough is ranked second in the Big Ten in passer rating (164.2), and passing yards (990). He is currently tied for first in the Big Ten among qualifiers with just one interception. Purdue has the No. 2 pass offense in the Big Ten, averaging 318.3 passing yards per game, while completing 68 percent of passes thrown.

Weaknesses: In one word, inconsistency. Purdue can be explosive offensively and defensively stout.

Nonetheless the Boilermakers have gotten off to slow starts, and haven’t been able to finish close games. In two of its three losses, Purdue has not been able to strike first. In the loss against Northwestern, all of the points Purdue gave up were in the first half. In each of its losses, Purdue has had the chance to win and failed to capitalize on it.

-Ethan Clewell

State College, Pennsylvania

James Franklin 11-2 (7-2 Big Ten) 4-0 (1-0 Big Ten) 14-18

with the veteran receiving corps, led by three redshirt senior captains in Terry McLaurin, Johnnie Dixon and Parris Campbell. When not passing the ball, the Ohio State running backs — redshirt junior Mike Weber and sophomore J.K. Dobbins — have found some success, each averaging 5.8 yards per carry with five touchdowns combined.

Even with the loss of junior defensive end Nick Bosa to a core muscle injury, the Ohio State front line has continued to be the strength of the defense. With redshirt junior Dre’Mont Jones in the middle and sophomore Chase Young on the end, the Buckeyes are tied with Penn State as the conference leader with 15 sacks in four games.

Weaknesses Ohio State has had a bit of trouble in eliminating big plays when opposing backs get past the defensive line. After allowing two touchdown runs of at least 75 yards against Oregon State, the Buckeyes have struggled in rush defense. They have allowed at least a 30yard run in three of the four total games this season, including a 93-yard touchdown run

by TCU junior running back Darius Anderson on Sept. 15, the longest touchdown allowed in Ohio State history.

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-Wyatt Crosher

The Boilermakers Location Head Coach 2017 Record 2018 Record Record vs. OSU

West Lafayette, Indiana

Jeff Brohm 7-6 (4-5 Big Ten) 1-3 (0-1 Big Ten) 14-39-2

Brayden Seal Gives Back The Ohio State University College of Social Work congratulates Brayden Seal as its 10th annual winner of the Preston V. McMurry Jr. Scholar Athlete Citizenship Award. There are more than 1,000 student athletes representing 36 varsity sports at Ohio State, and all are eligible for nomination. Brayden is a social champion, committed to serving others as well as being dedicated to Men’s Swimming and to academics. As a biochemistry major with a 3.8 GPA, Brayden best represents the purpose of this great university—scholarship, citizenship, and paying forward. Brayden was nominated by Coach Bill Dorenkott.

Congratulations, Brayden Seal!

csw.osu.edu

For more information about this award, contact jones-harris.1@osu.edu or 614/292-3540.

8 | The Lantern | Thursday, September 27, 2018

Iowa HAWKEYES

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The Hawkeyes Location Head Coach 2017 Record 2018 Record Record vs. OSU

What has happened thus far in 2017: Death, taxes and Kirk Ferentz on the Iowa Hawkeyes sideline. Any Big Ten football fan will recognize this team as Ferentz-led: average on offense, currently No. 95 in the nation with 25.3 points per game, tough on defense, currently No. 6 in the nation with 13.0 points per game, and can’t beat Wisconsin.

The Hawkeyes rolled to a 3-0 start against subpar competition, beating Northern Iowa, Iowa State and Northern Illinois, but for the sixth time in the past seven meetings in their own stadium, they lost to Wisconsin. While the game against the Badgers was competitive, special teams blunders and a late Jonathan Taylor touchdown handed Wisconsin a victory that might have sealed the fate of the Big Ten West.

Impact Player: If this Iowa team is going to do big things — and a loss to Wisconsin may render that impossible — it will KATINA ZENTZ | THE DAILY IOWAN need its passing offense to come up Iowa junior tight end Noah Fant (87) runs with the ball during the Iowa-UNI game at Kinnick big, and senior wide receiver Nick Stadium on Sept. 15.

Easley could be the difference.

Easley was referred to as a “godsend” by 1,000 yard rusher from a year ago. touchdown games against Ohio State and offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz when Strengths: Iowa State, the first Iowa quarterback with he walked on last spring after an AllExperience at the quarterback position two five-touchdown games since Chuck American junior college season. Easley will help the Hawkeyes during tough times Long. Stanley looked impressive in the went on to lead the team in receiving with this year. Stanley enters his second year loss to Wisconsin and will continue to be a 530 yards and will need to improve upon as a starter after registering an impressive pillar to lean on for this team. On the other that this year for an offense that lost its debut season last year, posting five- side of the ball, the defensive line will hold

Michigan State SPARTANS

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Iowa City, Iowa

Kirk Ferentz 8-5 (4-5 Big Ten) 3-1 (0-1 Big Ten) 15-46-3

down the fort with seven of the top eight returning for the unit. The line will look to dominate up front to keep teams from getting after the young back seven.

Weaknesses: Speaking of that back seven, Iowa lost two of the Big Ten’s best on defense with the departures of Butkusfinalist Josey Jewell and Thorpewinner Desmond King. This leaves the everything behind the stout line looking young and vulnerable, and Chad Greenway isn’t walking through that door to help them. On the offense, a similar problem arises at running back. Sophomore Torren Young is trying to replace a back-to-back 1,000yard rusher in Akrum Wadley, and while he has averaged 5.5 yards per carry thus far, his two touchdowns reflect the red zone scoring issues the Hawkeyes have faced and Young will still have to prove durable enough to produce for 12 games.

-Zach Varda

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The Spartans

Location Head Coach 2017 Record 2018 Record Record vs. OSU

East Lansing, Michigan

Mark Dantonio 10-3 (7-2 Big Ten) 2-1 (1-0 Big Ten) 15-31

What has happened thus far in 2018: The Michigan State Spartans took a surprising loss in the second game of the season as the Herm Edwards-led Arizona State Sun Devils knocked off the then-No. 15 ranked Spartans with a field goal during the expiring seconds of regulation to secure the 16-13 victory. Michigan State bounced back versus Indiana in Week 3 with a 35-21 victory.

Impact Player: Senior running back L.J. Scott is the most experienced player on the roster, but a slow start mixed with an ankle injury has limited his production thus far in 2018. Scott is a three-time letter winner with the Spartans and is a physical downfield runner with the capability of making an impact in the red zone against the Buckeyes.

Strengths: Creativity has helped Michigan State win its two games this season.

Trick plays against Indiana were the decisive plays that allowed Michigan State to pull away with the victory against the Hoosiers last week.

Quarterback Brian Lewerke made a quick pitch in the red zone to make a seven-point lead into a 14-point lead, which lasted for good. Lewerke also hauled in his first career reception during the game in a unique sequence of play calls that caught the Hoosiers off guard.

Weaknesses: Sloppy play has dug the Spartans into some holes this season that has made its path to victory harder than it needs to be. Lewerke has again been plagued by interceptions with four already this season after seven last year, and the offense has looked stagnant at times, such as in the loss to Arizona State. Michigan State also committed nine penalties in its opener against Utah State, flaws that it was able to make up for in Week CARLY GERACI | THE STATE NEWS 1. But those flaws could come back to bite them later in the season.

Michigan State then-junior running back LJ Scott (3) carries the football during the game against -Daniel McNatt Indiana on Oct. 21, 2017, at Spartan Stadium. The Spartans defeated the Hoosiers 17-9.

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Nebraska CORNHUSKERS The Cornhuskers Location Head Coach 2017 Record 2018 Record Record vs. OSU

Lincoln, Nebraska Scott Frost 4-8 (3-6 Big Ten) 0-3 (0-1 Big Ten) 1-5

What has happened thus far in 2018 After the first game of the season against Akron was cancelled due to an ongoing rain delay, the first game of the Scott Frostera at Nebraska was against Colorado, an old Big 12 rival. Nebraska kept pace in the first half in a back-and-forth affair, leading 21-17. However, a second half filled with turnovers helped push the Buffaloes to the 33-28 win. The Cornhuskers continued their poor performance in Week 2, falling to Troy at home 24-19. In Week 3, Nebraska suffered its worst loss of the season, losing 56-10 to Michigan, largely due to inconsistent quarterback play and crucial turnovers.

Impact Player Wide receiver Stanley Morgan appears to be emerging as a solid pass catcher for Frost. He has been the lone bright spot in an otherwise struggling Nebraska offense, tying wide receiver J.D. Spielman for the team lead with 13 catches for 200 yards and a touchdown.

Strengths Despite the rough start to the season, Nebraska’s offense is beginning to improve under Frost’s new spread system. With Morgan and Spielman in the receiving game, Nebraska quarterbacks have completed 63.8 percent of their passes. If the Cornhuskers can get consistent quarterback play from sophomore Andrew Bunch and freshman Adrian Martinez, then they might have a chance to improve throughout the rest of Big Ten play.

Weaknesses A lot of things have gone wrong for the

IRWIN PANGURIPAN | THE DAILY NEBRASKAN

Nebraska then-redshirt freshman wide receiver J.D. Spielman (10) runs the ball during the game against Northwestern on Nov. 4, 2017. Nebraska lost in overtime 31-24.

Cornhuskers this season. First, they were held to just 61 total yards of offense through three quarters against Michigan. Nebraska did not score a touchdown until the fourth quarter and were held to 132 yards by the end of the game. Second, the defense has struggled, surrendering 300 passing yards in each game. They also have struggled to stop the run, allowing 200 yards rushing

against Troy and Michigan. This is a young team under Frost and they will look to improve and start making progress over the course of Big Ten play. In order to do this, they will have to have playmakers step up on the offensive and defensive sides of the ball.

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-Sam Lankie

Rutgers SCARLET KNIGHTS What has happened thus far in 2018 Rutgers entered the 2018 season with low expectations due to a lackluster offense, though the defense played relatively well.

The Scarlet Knights started the 2018 season with a 35-7 win against Texas State, but has proceeded to get outscored 149-30 in three consecutive losses, including a 52-3 loss to Ohio State on Sept. 8 in the team’s Big Ten opener.

Impact Player Offensively, the bright spots are few and far between, but one player who could break out this season is sophomore running back Raheem Blackshear. Last year, Blackshear averaged 6.1 yards per carry and added three touchdowns. This season, Blackshear is up to 264 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 4.8 yards per carry. He was also involved in the passing game last season with 133 receiving yards on seven catches with two touchdowns, and has already racked up 15 catches for 76 yards and a touchdown.

Strengths Following last year’s 4-8 record, Chris Ash returns for his third year as head coach of the Scarlet Knights. He’ll have more talent than he’s had in the past, but facing another tough group of opponents in the Big Ten East, it will likely be another disappointing year for Rutgers. However, if

anything will help keep his team afloat, it might be the defense. Ash will be returning several key performers, including defensive end Kevin Wilkins, who finished last season with 44 tackles — seven for a loss. He has six tackles this season. Linebacker Tyreek Maddox-Williams returns from an ACL tear and has already racked up 18 tackles this season.

Weaknesses In 2017, Rutgers averaged just 18 points per game, 10th worst in the NCAA. Factoring in a new quarterback and a young offense, the issues for the Scarlet Knights will mostly come on the offensive side of the ball. Their lack of offensive production and tough schedule makes the outlook for the new season similar to last year’s. So far at quarterback, Artur Sitkowski has completed just 48.8 percent of his passes for 329 total passing yards. He also has just one touchdown and seven interceptions. The backup to start the year, Giovanni Rescigno has been a marginal improvement, with a 50 percent completion rating without a touchdown pass and an interception.

-Nolan Harmon

The Scarlet Knights Location

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Rutgers sophomore running back Raheem Blackshear (2) attempts to run through Ohio State defense in the first quarter of the Ohio StateRutgers game on Sept. 8. Ohio State won 52-3.

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Piscataway, New Jersey

Head Coach

Chris Ash

2017 Record

4-8 (3-6 Big Ten)

2018 Record

1-3 (0-1 Big Ten)

Record vs. OSU

0-5

10 | The Lantern | Thursday, September 27, 2018

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Maryland TERRAPINS The Terrapins Location

College Park, Maryland

Head Coach

Matt Canada

2017 Record

4-8 (2-7 Big Ten)

2018 Record

3-1 (1-0 Big Ten)

Record vs. OSU

0-4

What has happened thus far in 2018 Matt Canada took over as acting head coach following D.J. Durkin being placed on administrative leave for alleged abuse to players, which allegedly contributed to the death of offensive lineman Jordan McNair on May 29. Maryland started the season upsetting No. 18 Texas 34-29 by forcing three turnovers in the fourth quarter and scoring 10 points late to snatch the win away from the Longhorns. The following week, Maryland claimed an easy victory against Bowling Green 4514, but then faltered the following week by getting blown out at home by unranked Temple 35-14. Last week, Maryland rebounded from its loss by opening up Big Ten conference play with an easy win over Minnesota 42-13.

Impact Player Senior running back Ty Johnson has been leading the way for the Maryland offense. In four games, Johnson has had 40 carries for 300 yards and two touchdowns. This gives Johnson an average of 7.5 yards per carry and two games of over 100 yards rushing against Bowling Green and Minnesota. Johnson is not the only threat in Maryland’s offense, but he is one

The Wildcats Location

Evanston, Illinois

Head Coach

Pat Fitzgerald

2017 Record

10-3 (7-2 Big Ten)

2018 Record

1-2 (1-0 Big Ten)

Record vs. OSU

14-61-1

What has happened thus far in 2018 The Northwestern Wildcats began the season with a roar at Purdue, winning 3127 in the college football season’s Thursday night opening game. In Week 2, Duke came to Ryan Field and at first, the Wildcats seemed to be rolling with a quick touchdown, but then Duke went on a 21-0 run to end the first half. With two turnovers in the game, Northwestern failed to come back in the second half, losing 21-7. Northwestern got some MACtion in Week 3 with Akron visiting Evanston.

With three turnovers in the game, two of which were returned for touchdowns, Northwestern could not hold onto the football. The Zips stunned Northwestern in their first ever meeting by beating the Wildcats at home 39-34.

Impact Player Senior quarterback Clayton Thorson may not be having the best season so far at the helm of the Wildcat offense, but now more than ever, with the loss of starting running back Jeremy Larkin, his presence is crucial. With 753 passing yards and 71 completions on 116 attempts, Thorson has a 61.2 completion percentage in the first three games. The Northwestern passing

of its most prominent players and should continue to have success as the season goes on.

Strengths Maryland’s strength has easily been its running game thus far in the season.

Maryland has already had three rushers with over 100 yards rushing each. Freshman running back Anthony McFarland has emerged in the last couple of games as a forceful weapon for Maryland, already rushing for over 291 yards on only 27 carries. Against Minnesota, he rushed for 112 yards on six carries for two touchdowns, giving him an average of 18.7 yards per carry. Sophomore running back Tayon Fleet-Davis has also rushed for three touchdowns over the first four games of play.

Weaknesses Maryland has shown that it can be prone to bad losses, with a 35-14 home defeat to Temple. Though the Terrapins utilize the run game for most of the offense, they could use more from redshirt freshman quarterback Kasim Hill, who is throwing for 129 yards per game so far this season.

For Maryland to be a major contender, it will have to bring more of a dual-threat offense to the table.

-Brian Nelson

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Senior running back Ty Johnson (24) braces for contact during Maryland football’s 42-13 win over Minnesota at Maryland Stadium on Sept. 22, 2018.

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Northwestern WILDCATS game will likely be called on a lot for the rest of the season, so Thorson’s performance will be a good indication of how Northwestern’s offense will fare. If Thorson can get rid of his turnover bug from the first three games, he should have a pretty good season overall.

Strengths Northwestern’s offensive line and front seven on defense are its biggest strengths.

The offensive line is returning four starters from last year’s team and has allowed Thorson to throw the ball and open up the run game. The Wildcat front seven, led by star linebacker Nate Hall, is the core of the No. 29 defense, allowing only 1,140 yards throughout three games.

Weaknesses Northwestern’s biggest weakness is turnovers. It has had five turnovers in three games, and they are a major cause of its losses. The two interceptions against Duke stalled the offense, leaving a scoreless second half for both teams and a Wildcat loss. The two interceptions and a fumble against Akron led to two scores for the Zips and was a huge momentum boost for Akron that led to the upset. If Northwestern does not fix the turnover issues soon, it is going to be a long season for Thorson and the offense.

-Jake Rahe

COURTESY OF TNS

Northwestern senior quarterback Clayton Thorson (18) looks to pass in the second quarter against Duke at Ryan Field in Evanston, Ill., on Sept. 8, 2018.

Duke won 21-7.

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Thursday, September 27, 2018 | The Lantern | 11

Wisconsin BADGERS The Badgers Location Madison, Wisconsin Head Coach Paul Chryst 2017 Record 13-1 (9-0 Big Ten) 2018 Record 3-1 (1-0 Big Ten) Record vs. OSU 18-59

JACK WESTERHEIDE | MANAGING EDITOR FOR DESIGN

Wisconsin sophomore running back Jonathan Taylor (23) runs the ball in the fourth quarter of the B1G Championship game against Ohio State on Dec. 2 in Lucas Oil Stadium. Ohio State won 27-21.

What has happened thus far in 2018 Wisconsin opened the season with three straight non-conference home games that it was expected to win with ease. While the Badgers easily handled Western Kentucky and New Mexico, 34-3 and 45-14 respectively, the BYU Cougars came into Camp Randall Stadium looking for a fight. The Badgers and Cougars traded touchdowns through most of the game before BYU took a three-point lead early in the fourth quarter. Wisconsin got in position to kick a field goal to tie it, but BYU iced Wisconsin’s kicker with a pair of timeouts, leading to a missed kick and securing BYU’s 24-21 win. Coming off the loss, Wisconsin traveled to Iowa where, after going back and forth for most of the game, the Badgers scored two touchdowns in the final minute to win their first Big Ten outing 28-17.

Impact Player Sophomore running back Jonathan Taylor is picking up where he left off after his freshman campaign, where he gained over 2,000 yards from scrimmage. Through four games, he’s averaging 157 yards on the ground — 6.2 yards per carry — with a season-high 253 yards on 33 carries against New Mexico. Look for him to be more involved with the passing game this year, as he’s already approaching the total

number of receptions he had last year.

Strengths While Taylor has performed as advertised, junior quarterback Alex Hornibrook has seemingly taken his next step in Wisconsin’s offense. He’s improved across the board, including yards per attempt and passer rating. He’s also cut down on his interceptions. He led the Badgers downfield to give them a chance to tie against BYU and orchestrated the game-winning drive against Iowa in a display of clutch passing ability that wasn’t present in previous seasons with him at the helm. On the defense, the Badgers have held their opponents to only 172.8 passing yards per game and a completion percentage of 58 percent, good for a top 20 defense in the country through four games.

Weaknesses The receiving corps for Wisconsin is thin, with only six receivers having at least two receptions after four games. Junior wide receiver A.J. Taylor and freshman tight end Jake Ferguson have combined for 27 of the team’s 61 total receptions and are the only two receivers with double-digit catches on the roster.

The Badgers’ run defense has given up 4.4 yards per carry, allowing 135 rushing yards per game, which are high given the lack of quality opponents so far. Wisconsin still has teams like Michigan and Penn State left on its schedule, both averaging over 200 yards on the ground, so the Badgers will have to fortify their run defense before they take on these run-heavy teams.

-Braden Moles

Minnesota GOPHERS The Gophers

Location Minneapolis, Minnesota Head Coach P.J. Fleck 2017 Record 5-7 (2-7 Big Ten) 2018 Record 3-1 (0-1 Big Ten) Record vs. OSU 7-44

JACK RODGERS | MINNESOTA DAILY PHOTOGRAPHER

Minnesota senior linebacker Blake Cashman (36) celebrates after a tackle during the game against Nebraska on Nov. 11, 2018 at TCF Bank Stadium.

Minnesota won 54-21.

What has happened thus far in 2018 Minnesota found early season success in its nonconference schedule. Starting the 2018 season with a three-game winning streak, the Gophers outscored New Mexico State, Fresno State and Miami (Ohio) 95-27. With a 3-0 nonconference record, Minnesota traveled to College Park and lost to Maryland 42-12 after a slow first half and a poor defensive performance.

Impact Player Freshman quarterback Zack Annexstad has made strides in the passing game for Fleck’s offense in his collegiate debut. Annexstad completed 16-of-33 pass attempts for 220 yards and two touchdowns against New Mexico State, helping lead the team to 522 yards of total offense. This season, the freshman quarterback has completed 52.3 percent of his passes, throwing five touchdowns and two interceptions. Despite the loss against Maryland, the increased number of passing and rushing yards will create more opportunities for Annexstad to succeed down the stretch.

Strengths The biggest strength for Minnesota this year is its offense. Entering his second year, offensive coordinator Kirk Ciarrocca has produced a high-tempo offense that so far has accumulated 1,387 yards of total offense, with 748 total passing and 639 total rushing yards so far this season. This offense outshined the Aggies defense, totaling 23 first downs, 522 yards of total offense, 295 rushing yards and 227 passing yards in the season opener.

Weaknesses In the first three games of the season, Minnesota’s defense started off strong, holding teams to under 14 points. However, when the Gophers took a trip to Maryland, the defense gave up 42 points to the Terrapins’ offense. Maryland defense was positive when it controlled the game against the Aggies, giving up no points in the second half and holding New Mexico State to 271 yards on total offense.

-Bailey Schuefler

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Ohio State BUCKEYES The Buckeyes Location

Columbus, Ohio

Head Coach

Urban Meyer

2017 Record

12-2 (9-1 Big Ten)

2018 Record

4-0 (1-0 Big Ten)

What has happened thus far in 2018 Even without head coach Urban Meyer for the first three games, Ohio State has not had many issues to start the 2018 season. Winning each of their first four games, including one in conference play, the Buckeyes have scored no fewer than 40 points in each game this season, averaging 599 yards of offense per game — No. 1 in the Big Ten. After allowing 31 points to Oregon State in the season opener, the Ohio State defense has allowed nine points combined against Rutgers and Tulane, while giving up 28 points to then-No. 15 TCU on Sept. 15.

Impact Player In his first four games as the starting quarterback for Ohio State, redshirt sophomore Dwayne Haskins has made a major impact on how the Buckeyes run their offense. Instead of the run-heavy, option-based offense the team ran with J.T. Barrett, Haskins leads an Ohio State offense that leads the Big Ten in passing, averaging 365.8 passing yards per game. He is doing it with high accuracy, completing 75.7 percent of his pass attempts, and with a high touchdown rate, throwing 16 touchdowns and only one interception in 115 pass attempts. Haskins, in four games, has redefined what the Ohio State offense is and will be for the rest of the 2018 season, something opponents have already seen in the first four games.

.WW

Strengths Offensively, a lot of areas have been clicking for Ohio State. With an offensive line that has done a good job of protecting Haskins, anchored in the middle by junior center Michael Jordan, the Buckeyes have allowed only 1.5 sacks per game. The Buckeyes also have had success with the veteran receiving corps, led by three redshirt senior captains in Terry McLaurin, Johnnie Dixon and Parris Campbell. When not passing the ball, the Ohio State running backs — redshirt junior Mike Weber and sophomore J.K. Dobbins — have found some success, each averaging 5.8 yards per carry with five touchdowns combined.

Even with the loss of junior defensive end Nick Bosa to a core muscle injury, the Ohio State front line has continued to be the strength of the defense. With redshirt junior Dre’Mont Jones in the middle and sophomore Chase Young on the end, the Buckeyes are tied with Penn State as the conference leader with 15 sacks in four games.

Weaknesses Ohio State has had a bit of trouble in eliminating big plays when opposing backs get past the defensive line. After allowing two touchdown runs of at least 75 yards against Oregon State, the Buckeyes have struggled in rush defense. They have allowed at least a 30-yard run in three of the four total games this season, including a 93-yard touchdown run by TCU junior running back Darius Anderson on Sept. 15, the longest touchdown allowed in Ohio State history.

-Colin Gay

AMAL SAEED | ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

Ohio State redshirt sophomore quarterback Dwayne Haskins (7) waits for the play during the second quarter of the game against Tulane on Sept. 22. Ohio State won 49-6.

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