The Lantern – Sept. 26, 2019 – Big Ten Preview

Thursday, September 26, 2019

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The student voice of the Ohio State University

Year 139, Issue No. 38

Big Ten Preview

PREVIEWS OF ALL 14 TEAMS

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF TNS, AMAL SAEED | PHOTO EDITOR, CASEY CASCALDO | MANAGING EDITOR FOR MULTIMEDIA

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GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY KELLY MEADEN | MANAGING EDITOR FOR DESIGN

Badgers, Buckeyes to clash for Big Ten’s best GRIFFIN STROM Sports Editor strom.25@osu.edu Michigan State has already lost to Arizona State. Nebraska dropped to Colorado. Northwestern is 1-2, and Penn State barely eked out a win against Pittsburgh.

When then-No. 11 Michigan kicked off against then-No. 13 Wisconsin this past Saturday, the matchup’s implications would decide who was the most worthy adversary to challenge Ohio State for Big Ten supremacy.

The Badgers didn’t make us wait long for the answer, scoring 35 unanswered points –– 28 in the first half –– before Michigan got on the board.

Boasting the nation’s best running back, No. 1 rushing, scoring and total defense and the No. 3 total offense in the Big Ten, Wis-

consin is the biggest threat on Ohio State’s schedule, and Oct. 26 may not be the only meeting between the two.

“They’re off to a great start, and the quarterback looks like he’s in a rhythm.”

RYAN DAY Ohio State head football coach

“They’re off to a great start, and the quarterback looks like he’s in a rhythm,” Ohio State head coach Ryan Day said. “Running back is running hard. Offensive line is always doing a great job, and the defense is swarming to the ball.”

With an NCAA-most five of the top 50 career rushers in college football history, Wisconsin has historically been designed to run the ball and stop the run. This year is no different.

Wisconsin junior running back Jonathan Taylor led the country with 2,194 rushing yards in 2018, and coming off a 203-yard performance against Michigan this past week, Taylor’s well on his way to another dominant season that will keep him in the Heisman Trophy discussion.

His 10 touchdowns are the most of any nonquarterback in the nation, and most of the country has played one more game than Wisconsin thus far.

The Badgers are giving up a college football best 27 rushing yards per game, but Ohio State isn’t far behind, allowing just 60.3 per game through four games.

In fact, the Buckeyes’ current construction is much closer to Wisconsin’s than this past season’s prolific Dwayne Haskinsled pass attack.

Ohio State and Wisconsin are No. 14 and No. 13, respectively, nationally, with just more than 260 rushing yards per game and both top seven in rush defense.

The Buckeyes are chewing up 83 more yards per game on the ground and giving up 100 less on defense than they did a season ago.

Sophomore quarterback Justin Fields appears to be the more dynamic passer in comparison with Wisconsin junior quarterback Jack Coan, with eight more touchdown tosses on the year, but the Badgers throw only 20 fewer yards per game, and account for 18 fewer yards of total offense.

With Wisconsin propelled to

No. 8 in the Associated Press Poll after dismantling the Wolverines, if neither Ohio State nor Wisconsin loses before their October clash, it will mark three straight top 10 meetings between the two dating back to 2016. Before that, only twice in the centurylong rivalry had the teams met with each holding a top 10 ranking.

Ohio State has won each matchup since 2011, including a memorable 59-0 Cardale Joneshelmed beatdown in the 2014 Big Ten Championship, but the past two games between the pair have been decided by one score.

Taylor should remember it well –– it was the worst performance of his collegiate tenure. After rushing for nearly 2,000 yards as a true freshman, his 41 yards against the Buckeyes are the least he’s ever rushed for, and his 2.7 WISCONSIN CONTINUES ON 7

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Okudah leads secondary into conference play ANDY ANDERS Assistant Sports Editor anders.83@osu.edu Before departing from Ohio State as a projected first-round NFL Draft pick, Jeff Okudah said during fall camp there was something he couldn’t leave without.

An interception.

When the junior cornerback finally picked off his first career pass against Miami (Ohio) Saturday, the Texas native didn’t think about being the top corner at No. 6 Ohio State, his breakout twopass-breakup Rose Bowl performance or being a five-star recruit.

He thought about his late mother, Marie.

“I looked up, thanked God, and then I think I saw my mom just looking down, really proud of that moment,” Okudah said.

Ohio State’s pass defense ranks No. 19 in passing yards allowed nationally and climbing after giving up just 60 yards against Miami. Okudah, with his 14 tackles and tied-for-team-best three passes defended, is leading the charge.

With the elusive interception out of the way, he can shift his focus to leading the defense forward.

“He’s done a good job of taking on the technique that [co-de-

CASEY CASCALDO | MANAGING EDITOR FOR MULTIMEDIA

Ohio State junior cornerback Jeffrey Okudah (1) breaks up a Redhawk pass in the first half of the game against Miami (Ohio) on Sept. 21. Ohio State won 76-5.

fensive coordinator] Jeff [Hafley] is teaching him and embracing that,” head coach Ryan Day said.

“I think the big thing for Jeff [Okudah] is, where are we going to go as we get into the middle of the season?”

This offseason, Okudah said he worked on the mental aspects of his game with Hafley, after working harder on his technique and physical ability as a freshman and

sophomore.

Hafley fielded a question Aug. 20 about what makes Okudah special. The first thing he noted was Okudah’s drive, showing he has the ability to hone the mental aspects of his game.

“His work ethic,” Hafley said.

“You know he’s an exceptional athlete. He’s got size, speed. He’s got great feet. He loves football, and he practices hard every single

day.”

Having coached defensive backs in the NFL for the San Francisco 49ers, Hafley has seen what it takes to play at a professional level.

He said what gives Okudah the edge is the corner’s mentality.

“What separates him from other people is his mindset, and that’s what the great ones have,” Hafley said. “That’s what he does; he works.”

Mentality is an important aspect of a defense. After falling behind in the first quarter of backto-back games in Weeks 2 and 3, Ohio State came together to shut out Indiana in the second half and Miami in the final three quarters.

“We have to show that we’re not gonna revert back to last year,” Okudah said. “If things get rough, we’re gonna show that this is a new era of the [silver] bullets defense.”

The Buckeyes have the No. 3 scoring defense in the nation following their 76-5 Redhawk grounding.

With a full Big Ten slate ahead, Ohio State will need to carry that mojo forward when it faces better offenses.

“We have to be able to play tough,” Okudah said. “We have to be able to show that no mat-

MICHIGAN STATE SPARTANS

MEGHAN CARROLL Lantern reporter carroll.677@osu.edu

Location: East Lansing, Michigan 2018 record: 7-6 Head coach: Mark Dantonio 2019 record so far: 3-1 Record against OSU since 2010: 3-5

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR IN 2019 Then-No.18 Michigan State took a loss against unranked Arizona State in its third game of the season by a score of 10-7. The Spartans had previously beaten Tulsa and Western Michigan before falling to Arizona State for the second consecutive year. The Spartans came back and won in Week 4 against Northwestern 31-10, placing them at No. 25 and earning head coach Mark Dantonio a win that gave him the most in program history.

ter what happens, we’re able to respond positively and keep that momentum going. We can’t lose that momentum.”

The challenge now for Okudah and the Buckeye defense, Day said, is what to do when teams get more tape and start scheming against his abilities.

“What separates him from other people is his mindset, and that’s what the great ones have.”

JEFF HAFLEY Ohio State co-defensive coordinator

“I think he’s flashed; got the interception last week, he’s done some good things, but now that some of this stuff is on film and teams start scheming us up, how are you going to be able to respond to it?” Day said.

He’ll have his next opportunity to test those abilities against Nebraska on Saturday.

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KEY OFFENSIVE PLAYER Redshirt senior quarterback Brian Lewerke returns for his third season as a starter, averaging 256.3 passing yards per game.

However, his 7.4 yards per attempt ranks No. 7 among Big Ten quarterbacks with at least 14 attempts per game. Lewerke has passed for more than 200 yards 15 times in his career. His primary target is senior receiver Darrell Stewart, who has 30 receptions for 439 yards this season.

KEY DEFENSIVE PLAYER

Redshirt senior defensive end Kenny Willekes was No. 5 in the Big Ten with eight sacks in 2018, and he’s already outpacing himself with a team-leading 3.5 through four games this season. Willekes opened the season with two tackles for loss in three straight games, and recovered two fumbles in the season opener against Tulsa. As one of the best pass rushers in the conference,

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Wi l l e ke s is instrumental for a defense, allowing just 176 pass yards per game, and a Big Ten third-best 228.3 yards overall.

WEAKNESSES Michigan State has struggled with penalties, resulting in the loss of yards that could allow teams to close the gap. The Spartans’ 31 penalties thus far are the most in the Big Ten, including 14 in the season opener and 10 in the loss to Arizona State. A 12-menon-the-field penalty negated a would-be game-tying field goal against Arizona State, and after missing the retry as time expired, Michigan State lost the game.

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PENN STATE NITTANY LIONS ATHENA MARKOWSKI For The Lantern markowski.19@osu.edu

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR IN 2019 No. 12 in the AP Top 25 poll, Penn State started the 2019 season strong, boasting 79 points in its home opener against Idaho and displaying a 45-13 win over Buffalo. A late third quarter touchdown run against Pittsburgh kept its win streak alive with a 17-10 victory, and the Nittany Lions look to stay undefeated as they take on Maryland Friday night.

KEY OFFENSIVE PLAYER

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Penn State sophomore defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos (99) chases Pittsburgh junior running back A.J. Davis (21) during the fourth quarter on Sept. 14.

Junior wide receiver KJ Hamler has been crucial to Penn State’s offense. With 245 yards in three games, Hamler has proved to be a consistent receiver in an offense that ranks No. 5 in the Big Ten

INDIANA HOOSIERS GRIFFIN STROM Sports Editor strom.25@osu.edu ANDY ANDERS Assistant Sports Editor anders.83@osu.edu

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR IN 2019 Coming off back-to-back 5-7 seasons under head coach Tom Allen, Indiana got off to a quick start in 2019, with a 34-24 victory against Ball State and a 52-0 demolition of Eastern Illinois.

The Hoosiers’ momentum was stopped dead in its tracks when then-No. 6 Ohio State racked up 51 points against them at home in a 41-point trouncing. Indiana got back to its winning ways the following week 38-3 over UConn.

KEY DEFENSIVE PLAYER

Up-and-coming sophomore outside linebacker Micah Parsons is just one aspect of Penn State’s top five nationally ranked scoring defense. In a decisive fourthdown play against Idaho, Parsons stopped sophomore tight end Logan Kendall on a scoring drive, allowing no gain. With 20 total tackles, he’s made huge plays

against opposing offenses, which have scored only 30 total points against this unit.

WEAKNESSES Penn State lost several offensive starters in the 2019 NFL Draft.

With young and inexperienced players at almost every position, Penn State’s offense has been inconsistent thus far. Clifford has yet to find a passing groove, completing just 59 percent of his throws, and the running game has relied on freshman running back Noah Cain to get points off the ground. The defense has carried the team in the first three games, but as it heads into Big Ten play, the offense has to find a more effective and consistent rhythm.

Location: University Park, Pennsylvania 2018 record: 9-4 Head coach: James Franklin 2019 record so far: 3-0 Record against OSU since 2010: 2-7

Location: Bloomfield, Indiana 2018 record: 5-7 Head coach: Tom Allen 2019 record so far: 3-1 Record against OSU since 2010: 0-10

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threw for a Big Ten fourth-best 2,875 yards.

KEY DEFENSIVE PLAYER

Redshirt junior defensive back Marcelino Ball returns after leading the Hoosiers in tackles for loss with 7.5 and earning an honorable mention All-Big Ten nod in 2018. His 59 tackles this past season were third on the team, and his 2.5 sacks led all non-de-

KEY OFFENSIVE PLAYER Redshirt junior quarterback Peyton Ramsey started the year supplanted by redshirt freshman Michael Penix for his starting position, but regained it after an injury to Penix ahead of its matchup with the Buckeyes.

Ramsey had just 162 yards on a 57.6 completion rate, but his performance against UConn showed that he can still make plays for the Hoosiers. Ramsey went 23-for-27 for 247 yards and three touchdowns this past Saturday. As the full-time starter in 2018, Ramsey

at 473 yards per game. Scoring twice during the Idaho game, Hamler caught passes from sophomore quarterback Sean Clifford to put the Nittany Lions on top, and has been able to make explosive plays when the running game has been stifled.

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fensive linemen. Ball can perform many different roles in Indiana’s defensive play, evidenced by his variety of statistical achievements in 2018. He’s off to a slower start in 2019 with 13 tackles and no tackles for loss or passes defended, but remains a threat. Ohio State head coach Ryan Day called him one of the best defensive backs in the Big Ten during the week leading up to the Buckeyes’ game against the Hoosiers.

WEAKNESSES

Indiana ranks No. 9 in the Big Ten in rushing yards allowed per game with 127.3. Linebacker depth behind redshirt senior Raekwon Jones, the team’s leading tackler with 24 is concerning, considering the Hoosiers return no linebackers who made at least 40 stops in 2018. Linebackers traditionally make the most tackles on defense. Ohio State showed that teams with elite talent can shut down Indiana’s offense by blowing it out 51-10, with Indiana’s lone touchdown coming on a trick play.

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Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota 2018 record: 7-6 Head coach: P.J. Fleck (third year) 2019 record so far: 3-0 Record against OSU since 2010: 0-4

EVA RIVERA For The Lantern rivera.448@osu.edu

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR IN 2019

The Golden Gophers are currently undefeated, although they have only faced nonconference opponents. Minnesota entered the fourth quarter of its season opener at home against South Dakota State down 21-20. It struck on a fumble recovery, which led to a touchdown and two-point conversion to steal a win. In Weeks 2 and 3, Minnesota snuck out threepoint wins against both Georgia Southern and Fresno State, needing double overtime against the Bulldogs to do so.

KEY OFFENSIVE PLAYER

Minnesota completed just 14.6 passes per game in 2018, and then-junior wide receiver Tyler Johnson accounted for 41 percent of them with his 78 receptions.

Johnson added a team-leading 1,169 yards and 12 touchdowns, making him the go-to pass option for redshirt sophomore quarterback Tanner Morgan this season.

After just 99 yards in his first two games, Johnson exploded for 140 and three touchdowns on 10 catches against Georgia Southern, including the game-winning score with 13 seconds remaining to avoid the upset.

KEY DEFENSIVE PLAYER

On the other side of the ball, redshirt senior defensive back Chris Williamson has stood out among a Minnesota defense that is No. 7 in the Big Ten in total defense and No. 13 in points allowed per game. In the season opener, the 6-foot, 205-pound Williamson completed a 43-yard pick-six to put the team up 20-7 in the third quarter. So far in 2019, he’s recorded 13 tackles, two pass breakups and one sack. This is Williamson’s second season as a Golden Gopher after transferring from Florida in 2016 and sitting out the 2017 season.

WEAKNESSES

The Minnesota defense as a whole has been less than stellar, allowing 29.3 points on average thus far. Defensive coordinator Joe Rossi stepped into the position in the middle of the 2018 season — later earning the job permanently — after former defensive coordinator Robb Smith was relieved of his duties. However, Rossi has not seen ideal performance from his defense, as opposing teams have scored on all nine trips to the red zone against Minnesota, with seven of the drives resulting in touchdowns.

The slow start may be a result of losing the squad’s top two tacklers from 2018 in linebacker Blake Cashman and defensive back Jacob Huff, but there is still time for others to step up and fill the needed rolls.

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Rutgers junior running back Raheem Blackshear (2) tries to break away from Boston College redshirt sophomore Max Richardson (14).

RUTGERS SCARLET KNIGHTS

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Minnesota then-sophomore wide receiver Tyler Johnson (6) evades the tackle bid from Northwestern then-senior linebacker Nate Hall (32) during the first quarter at TCF Stadium, Nov. 17, 2018, in Minneapolis, Minn.

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Location: New Brunswick, New Jersey 2018 record: 1-11 Head coach: Chris Ash 2019 record so far: 1-2 Record against OSU since 2010: 0-5

JACOB BENGE For The Lantern benge.30@osu.edu

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR IN 2019

Rutgers had a bye week during Week 4. After looking sharp in a 48-21 win over Massachusetts in Week 1, the Scarlet Knights have allowed 60 points and scored only 16 total in two games since. They were shut out 30-0 against thenNo. 20 Iowa in their second game and lost 30-14 to Boston College the following week. Senior quarterback McLane Carter, the Week 1 starter, has been out since midway through the second game due to concussion-like symptoms.

This has prompted head coach Chris Ash to turn to sophomore Artur Sitkowski to throw the ball and lead the offense.

KEY OFFENSIVE PLAYER

Junior wide receiver Raheem Blackshear brings versatility to the Rutgers offense. Blackshear is No. 5 in the Big Ten with 255 total receiving yards, two receiving touchdowns on the season and two games with more than 125 receiving yards. However, Blackshear’s skills do not rely solely on catching the football. He led the team in rushing and receiving yards in 2018, with 586 rushing yards and 367 receiving yards and

currently has 77 rushing yards this season. He was named to the Paul Hornung Award Watch List for the most versatile player in college football prior to the start of the season.

KEY DEFENSIVE PLAYER

Junior linebacker Tyshon Fogg has proved to be a defensive force. He currently leads the team with 30 tackles and has been heavily relied upon by the Scarlet Knights after they lost two starting linebackers from 2018 in Deonte Roberts and Trevor Morris.

Fogg’s 15 solo tackles are already more than his total a year ago, and his numbers will likely continue to increase.

WEAKNESSES

The Scarlet Knights have the fewest first downs in the Big Ten with 11, due in part to their 30 percent third-down-conversion rate. Penalties have afflicted Rutgers so far, as it averages a conference high 80.3 penalty yards per game. Rutgers has turned the ball over eight times over its three games, with a minus-six turnover margin. Ball security and disciplined play will be important moving forward.

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ILLINOIS FIGHTING ILLINI

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KHALID HASHI Assistant Sports Director hashi.20@osu.edu Illinois, coming off a losing season in 2018, entered 2019 with a strong start, winning its first two games against Akron and UConn, 42-3 and 31-23, respectively.

The Fighting Illini suffered their first loss 34-31 in Week 3 against Eastern Michigan and added a second after Nebraska overcame a 35-21 deficit to beat them 42-38 at home in Week 4.

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR IN 2019

Redshirt senior running back Reggie Corbin was lightning in a bottle for Illinois a season ago, averaging 8.5 yards per carry to the tune of 1,085 yards on the ground and nine touchdowns. Corbin got off to a slow start this season, receiving just six carries in Illinois’ season opening blowout against Akron and none against UConn, but has followed up with backto-back showings of 144 and 134 yards the past two weeks. Corbin is running for 7.1 yards a pop and scored a touchdown in

every game he’s played.

KEY OFFENSIVE PLAYER

On the defensive side of the ball, senior linebacker Dele Harding currently leads the team in tackles with 42, and tied for the lead in interceptions with one.

The Maryland native has made the most of his time at Illinois, as he was made special teams captain in 2018. The Fighting Illini return 17 starters, and Harding has served as a starter throughout his first three seasons. After finishing top 10 on the 2018 team with 37 total tackles in just nine games, Harding already has 42 this season. Harding’s continued production will be vital if Illinois hopes to turn things around on defense.

KEY DEFENSIVE PLAYE

As a team that went 4-8 a season ago, Illinois has several areas upon

which t o improve.

Being in the Big Ten West division, depth and consistent play are a must. Teams compete against the likes of defending division champion Northwestern, No. 8 Wisconsin and No. 14 Iowa, to name a few. Since the beginning of the 2016 football season, the Fighting Illini have played a total of 39 games with 13 different starters at safety. Two safeties have not started three consecutive games together since Taylor Barton and Clayton Fejedelem back in 2015. Illinois began 2-2 a season ago before dropping six of eight to end the year. It will try to avoid the same fate this season.

Location: Champaign, Illinois 2018 record: 4-8 Head coach: Lovie Smith 2019 record so far: 2-1 Record against OSU since 2010: 0-7

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MARYLAND TERRAPINS

CARSON HUTTON For The Lantern hutton.109@osu.edu

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR IN 2019

The Terrapins opened their season with a 79-0 thrashing of Howard and followed that up with an impressive 63-20 win over No. 21 Syracuse. They then hit the road to face Temple, losing 2017. Despite the defeat, the Terrapins have outscored their opponents 159-40, averaging 53 points per game on offense, which puts them at No. 4 nationally.

KEY OFFENSIVE PLAYER

Don’t let his 18-yard season opener fool you. Maryland did not need its star sophomore running back Anthony McFarland in its 79-point win over Howard. Still, two of his six carries were for touchdowns, and he’s scored four total in two subsequent games. McFarland had back-to-back 200-yard games in his true freshman season, in which he averaged 7.9 yards per carry, including a 298-yard game against Ohio State in 2018.

The 5-foot-9 running back had 120 total yards on 16 touches against Syracuse and broke out for 132 on the ground against Temple.

If he can repeat what he showed at the tail end of Big Ten play this past season, McFarland will be a problem for his conference opponents.

KEY DEFENSIVE PLAYER

The Maryland defense has shown glimpses of growth through three games, allowing 298.3 total yards per game compared to 390.4 yards per game allowed in 2018. The leader of the slightly improved defensive backfield is senior defensive back Antoine Brooks, who leads the team with 25 total tackles and added a fumble recovery.

His standout game this year against Syracuse gave him nine tackles in a 63-20 blowout win.

WEAKNESSES

The 224.7 passing yards per game allowed by the Terrapins’ defense puts them at No. 73 nationally and No. 10 in the Big Ten. Another area of concern is the passing offense, with Jackson completing only 51 percent of his passes. As a team, Maryland is No. 121 nationally in completion percentage, and its 54 pass completions are third least in the Big Ten.

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Opinion: Weak nonconference schedule leaves Ohio State unprepared ATHENA MARKOWSKI For The Lantern markowski.19@osu.edu Ohio State football is a perennial powerhouse, not just contending for conference titles, but vying alongside blue chip programs such as Alabama, Clemson and Oklahoma for national supremacy.

This year, both the defensive and offensive ends of the ball clicked almost immediately for Ohio State — something that hasn’t happened in recent years. Even special teams have seemed to improve, blocking punts in back-to-back weeks and a field goal the week prior.

But does demolishing small schools warrant arguments for rings and championship trophies this early on?

Since 2014, Ohio State has made sure to include a tough early-season nonconference opponent in order to stand out to the College Football Playoff selection committee. These difficult early opponents served as teachers that taught Ohio State valuable lessons for their season.

In 2014 it was Virginia Tech, whose win over the Buckeyes showed the flaws in Ohio State’s offensive line and quarterback play, as then-redshirt freshman J.T. Barrett finished 9-for29 passing after being sacked seven times. Ohio State went on to win the national championship, with the offensive line plowing the way for three consecutive 200-yard games against No. 11 Wisconsin, No. 1 Alabama and No. 3 Oregon.

Ohio State learned further lessons during its home-and-away series against Oklahoma in 2016 and 2017, which gave the team early metrics by which it could test its mettle.

This past season it was then-No. 15 TCU, but this year, there’s no teacher in Ohio State’s nonconference schedule, which is comprised of three non-Power Five opponents: Florida Atlantic, Cincinnati and Miami (Ohio), that acted more as scrimmages than real contests.

Throw in a weak conference adversary in Indi-

WISCONSIN FROM 1

yards per carry in the game are still a career low.

The 174 yards Ohio State junior running back J.K. Dobbins ran for on Wisconsin are still the most it’s given up to any single rusher since.

Both teams will have to go through Michigan State at home before they meet.

However, even if Wisconsin drops to Ohio State on the road, it will likely have to get through only No. 14 Iowa, a team it has beaten in three straight years, in order to coast to a potential rematch with Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship.

Ohio State’s path to Indianapolis is not set in stone, however.

The Buckeyes will need to avoid the trap

ana, and Ohio State has racked up 214 points while giving up just 36.

Sure, TCU may have opted out of playing in Columbus in 2019, which would’ve given the Buckeye schedule more gravitas this season, but nonetheless, Ohio State enters Big Ten play having had no test to prove its merit.

Yes, sophomore quarterback Justin Fields’ 880 passing yards and 19 total touchdowns are sensational thus far, but they also feel somewhat expected considering the level of opponent.

Fields hasn’t faced players like Penn State sophomore defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos or Michigan State senior defensive end Kenny Willekes.

Granted, the offensive line ought to be able to protect the pocket against these defenders, but Fields hasn’t felt the defensive pressure the Big Ten is known for.

Defensively, the Buckeyes have shown no mercy. Junior defensive end Chase Young — who might be better than the Bosa brothers — and junior cornerback Jeffrey Okudah proved that the Silver Bullets weren’t messing around this year.

Young has already charted an NCAA-leading seven sacks while Okudah’s interception against Miami freshman quarterback Brett Gabbert was the last straw for the already frustrated Redhawks.

But Miami — like Florida Atlantic, Cincinnati and Indiana — is nowhere near the offensive powers that make up the best of the Big Ten. If Ohio State goes all the way into College Football Playoff as some believe it will, what will the game plan be against reigning champion Clemson or Alabama head coach Nick Saban’s horde of offensive playmakers?

All three Ohio State units have worked in unison to produce these high-scoring blowouts, but they have faced no real competition to date. That changes with the three game slate of Nebraska, No. 25 Michigan State and No. 8 Wisconsin on the horizon.

game pitfall that has allowed Purdue and Iowa to best them in recent years, but they also face ranked opponents in the final two weeks of the regular season in Penn State and Michigan, whereas Wisconsin faces unranked Purdue and Minnesota.

Whether or not they meet in the postseason, the two have been the most dominant teams in the conference, turning in a spotless seven collective games that have seen them combine to outscore opponents 359-50.

While neither team may admit it, Week 9 is circled on the calendar as a matchup that will serve as the Big Ten Championship before the Big Ten Championship.

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Reed McGraw Gives Back The Ohio State University College of Social Work congratulates James “Reed” McGraw as its 11th 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. Reed is a social champion, committed to serving others as well as being dedicated to Men’s Swimming and to academics. Graduating with a 4.0 GPA and biomedical engineering degree, Reed is now a medical student. He best represents the purpose of this great university—scholarship, citizenship, and paying forward.

Reed was nominated by Coach Bill Dorenkott.

Congratulations, Reed McGraw!

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

csw.osu.edu

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Thursday, September 26, 2019 | The Lantern | 9

PURDUE BOILERMAKERS JACOB BENGE For The Lantern benge.30@osu. edu

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR IN 2019

Location: West Lafayette, Indiana 2018 record: 6-7 Head coach: Jeff Brohm 2019 record so far: 1-2 Record against OSU since 2010: 2-3

It has been a shaky season so far for Purdue, which had a bye during Week 4. Purdue led 24-7 at halftime against Nevada in Week 1, but turnovers and 17 second-half points from the Wolfpack led to a 34-31 loss on a last-second 54-yard field goal.

The momentum from a 42-24 Week 2 win over Vanderbilt was short-lived when Purdue lost 34-13 to TCU in a game that saw redshirt senior quarterback Elijah Sindelar knocked out with a concussion and the offense held to 204 total yards.

his best qualities, as he averages 13.7 yards per catch. Moore leads the Big Ten in all-purpose yardage with 179.7 yards per game.

KEY DEFENSIVE PLAYER

KEY OFFENSIVE PLAYER Sophomore wide receiver Rondale Moore is currently No. 1 in the Big Ten with 123 receiving yards per game, and has two receiving touchdowns. Moore was the 2018 recipient of the Paul Hornung Award, given to the most versatile player in college football. The accolades do not stop there, as Moore was an AP First Team All-American a season ago as an all-purpose player.

His speed and agility are among

Redshirt senior linebacker Ben Holt is currently in his first season with Purdue after transferring from Western Kentucky, and he has taken the Big Ten by storm. He leads the conference in total tackles with 35, and his 21 solo tackles are tied for No. 3 in the conference.

WEAKNESSES Turnovers have been crucial for the Boilermakers, who have committed eight so far through three games. The inability to rush the ball has also weakened their

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR IN 2019 After winning the Big Ten West division in 2018, the Wildcats began 2019 with a 17-7 road loss at Stanford. Following a bye week in Week 2, they rebounded at home with a decisive 30-14 victory over UNLV. Beginning their conference schedule this past weekend, Northwestern could not stop Michigan State’s passing attack and were defeated 31-10 at home by the Spartans.

KEY OFFENSIVE PLAYER A calming presence in the backfield, redshirt freshman running back Drake Anderson has emerged as the go-to playmaker for the Wildcats.

Stymied against Stanford, Anderson erupted in the home

opener, igniting the offense with 26 carries for 141 yards and a score. He’s rushed for 237 yards and two touchdowns on the season. With redshirt sophomore quarterback Hunter Johnson under center, Northwestern will rely on Anderson to work for consistent yardage on the ground to open up deep throws and play-action routes.

KEY DEFENSIVE PLAYER Leading the linebacker corps is junior linebacker Paddy Fisher, a third-team All-American and first-team All-Big Ten in 2018. The Northwestern defense is anchored around the Katy, Texas, native, who has been a disruptive force for the Wildcats with back-to-back seasons of more than 100 tackles. To begin this year’s campaign, Fisher has recorded 22 tackles, forced a fumble and recorded the Wildcats’ only interception, coming against UNLV. Currently allowing the

fourth-most rushing yards per game in the Big Ten, Fisher and the defense will need to step up to meet the ball carrier in order to keep Northwestern competitive against the conference’s top offenses.

WEAKNESSES The Wildcats rank No. 121 in the NCAA in total offense, largely due to an inability to move the ball through the air.

They rank No. 123 in pass offense, and Johnson has thrown four interceptions with only one passing touchdown. A former five-star recruit and Clemson backup, Johnson will need to find a rhythm throwing and protecting the football. The defense is faring much better statistically but still has its inefficiencies. The Wildcats’ run defense is No. 72 in the NCAA and will need to improve drastically to stop dynamic Big Ten running backs like Wisconsin junior Jonathan Taylor and Ohio State junior J.K. Dobbins.

Location: Evanston, Illinois 2018 record: 9-5 Head coach: Pat Fitzgerald 2019 record so far: 1-2 Record against OSU since 2010: 0-3

offense. Their 150 total rushing yards rank last in the Big Ten, 258 yards less than the next closest team. Turning the ball over and having to pass the ball has led

Location: Iowa City, Iowa 2018 record: 9-4 Head coach: Kirk Ferentz 2019 record so far: 3-0 Record against OSU since 2010: 1-2

BRIAN NELSON Sports Director nelson.1302@osu. edu

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR IN 2019

No. 14 Iowa Hawkeyes are one of five teams in the Big Ten that remain undefeated through the first four weeks of the season. Their first two wins were blowouts against Miami (Ohio), with a 38-14 victory to open up the season, and a 30-0 shutout against Rutgers. Week 3 was a different story, as Iowa came back from a 14-6 deficit in the fourth quarter to narrowly defeat its in-state rival Iowa State 18-17.

KEY OFFENSIVE PLAYER

COURTESY OF TNS

Purdue to the second-least time of possession in the Big Ten, as they’ve had the ball for just 79 minutes in three games.

COURTESY OF TNS

IOWA HAWKEYES

NORTHWESTERN WILDCATS GABE BURGGRAF For The Lantern burggraf.34@osu.edu

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Senior quarterback Nathan Stanley returns to Iowa for his third consecutive season as the leader of the Hawkeye offense. In 2019, he’s been the main source of production offensively and has completed 59-of-93 passes for 689 yards and six touch-

down passes. In addition, Stanley has rushed for 40 yards on the season with one score. Stanley’s experience will be key in upcoming games against Michigan and Penn State.

KEY DEFENSIVE PLAYER Iowa’s impact players come in the form of linebacker duo sophomore Djimon Colbert and senior Kristian Welch, who both return as starters.

Colbert was the No. 5 leading tackler for the Hawkeyes in 2018 with 52 total takedowns, while Welch was not far behind with 49. After four weeks, the pair shares the team lead with 21 each. Much like Stanley being the key to the Iowa offense, Colbert and Welch are integral to a strong Hawkeye defense, especially in the run game, as Iowa replaced four key defensive linemen from 2018 prior to the season.

WEAKNESSES Iowa’s main issue will come down to whether its new starters are ready for the limelight. Offensively, the Hawkeyes have to replace not only two first-round NFL draft picks in tight ends T.J. Hockenson and Noah IOWA CONTINUES ON 10

10 | The Lantern | Thursday, September 26, 2019

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Location: Lincoln, Nebraska 2018 record: 4-8 Head coach: Scott Frost 2019 record so far: 3-1 Record against OSU since 2010: 1-4

MARCUS HORTON For The Lantern horton.328@osu.edu

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR IN 2019

IOWA FROM 9

Fant, but also leading receiver Nick Easley. Junior defensive end A.J. Epenesa is coming off a 2018 season that saw him lead the Big Ten with 10.5 sacks, but the 280-pound edge rusher has just one sack and one tackle for loss through three games. Playing in the Big Ten West division gives Iowa a tough schedule as well, as it has yet to play Northwestern, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Nebraska along with two remaining cross-division games against Michigan and Penn State.

The Hawkeyes have played well so far, but getting through that schedule unscathed is a tall task for any team, especially one with so much to replace.

Coming off a losing season under first-year head coach Scott Frost, Nebraska started the season with a 35-21 home win against South Alabama. It dropped its next game against nonconference rival Colorado 34-31 in overtime.

Nebraska followed its first loss with a 44-8 win over Northern Illinois and a 42-38 win against Illinois after trailing 35-21 in the second half.

KEY OFFENSIVE PLAYER

Sophomore quarterback Adrian Martinez is the engine of the Cornhusker offense and has proven to be a threat both through the air and on the ground in 2019.

He has 10 total touchdowns and

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NEBRASKA CORNHUSKERS leads the Big Ten in both passing yards per game with 263.3 and total offense per game with 321.8.

In Nebraska’s loss to Colorado, Martinez completed his first nine passes and scored a touchdown on the ground, but went seven for his next 17 and was sacked six times. When he is truly acting as a dual-threat quarterback and can complete multiple passes in a row, Martinez and Nebraska’s offense can put up points in a hurry, as evidenced by its Big Ten fifthbest 38 points per game.

KEY DEFENSIVE PLAYER Redshirt senior linebacker and team captain Mohamed Barry leads Nebraska with 33 tackles, which is tied for No. 5 in the Big Ten. Barry tied his career-best with 12 tackles against South Alabama and hit double-digit tackles again against Northern Illinois. He registered his first sack of 2019 and the third of his career against Colorado. Barry has cemented himself as one of the best linebackers in the Big Ten, and

COURTESY OF TNS

will be a major cog in the middle of a Nebraska defense that hasn’t allowed a running back to gain more than 50 yards rushing in three of its first four games.

WEAKNESSES

Nebraska has struggled at stopping the pass in 2019. The team allowed an average of 240 passing yards per game through Week 4, and in its first game against a Power Five opponent, it allowed two long passing touchdowns to Colorado. The team has a propensity to give up big plays against

major conference opponents.

Under Frost and a young quarterback, the team also struggles to find ways to win in tough environments. Last season, Nebraska had zero wins on the road, and in its first trip away from Lincoln in 2019, the Cornhuskers blew a 17-0 lead to Colorado. While still learning to win high-stakes games, Nebraska puts pressure on Martinez to stand out in all areas of the game. Combined with an average defense, Nebraska relies too heavily on its offense to win games.

Puzzles

Across

Answer Key for Sept. 24: Across 1. Hex 4. Bats 8. Epsom 13. Alou 15. Doit 16. China 17. Hmos 18. Alto 19. Liter 20. Hey 22. Aria 24. Sax 25. Skew

27. Anemic 29. Leerers 31. Profit 35. Inn 36. Riper 39. Spiro 40. Fond 42. Gclef 44. Elia 45. Trees 47. Aside 49. LSD 50. Salami 52. Nannies

54. Romeos 57. Ians 58. AFB 61. Oars 62. DDT 63. Pleat 65. Acti 67. Edam 71. Ralph 72. Sark 73. Snip 74. Snaps 75. Erie 76. Als

Down 1. Hah 2. Elm 3. XOO 4. BDay 5. Aol 6. Titan 7. Store 8. Eclairs 9. Phi 10. Sits 11. Onea 12. Marx 14. Usher 21. Ewer

23. Imp 25. Senora 26. Kennel 27. ASPCA 28. Cope 29. Lifts 30. Rig 32. Fillin 33. Irises 34. Toads 37. Els 38. Reins 41. Dear 43. FDA

46. Smooths 48. Enid 51. Ima 53. Nates 55. Erase 56. Oscar 58. Aprs 59. Flan 60. Bela 62. Dike 64. App 66. Tri 68. DNA 69. Ail 70. Mps

1. ‘68 loser to RMN 4. Pilot’s diary 7. Mauna ____

10. ____ Paulo (Brazilian city)

13. Letters on some tow trucks 14. “____ Sharkey” 15. Fall mo.

16. Doting attention, informally 17. Triple, e.g.

18. Dawn dampness 19. Some “House” chars.

20. Comedienne Charlotte ____ 21. Locale 23. Chest bone 25. “The Audacity of Hope” author 27. Tender, bite-size shellfish 31. “____ the Roof” (2 wds.)

32. Boise’s state 35. Small item 37. “Memories Are ____ This” (2 wds.)

39. Braggart 42. From ____ Z (2 wds.)

43. One Gershwin 45. Comprehend 46. Indicate approval 48. Foolish 51. Didn’t have 53. Topics for discussion 55. Slightest 56. Ship’s prison

Down

1. Joke response (2 wds.)

2. Crowning glory 3. Animosity 4. Calculator display (abbr.)

5. Diva’s drama 6. Paint the town red (2 wds.)

59. What’s-his-name (hyph.) 7. Aka “acid” (abbr.)

8. “____ the land of the free...”

61. Citrus fruit 63. Dept. head 9. Lhasa ____ 64. Nintendo competitor 10. Leather strip 68. Download on an iPhone 11. Car rental company 69. Midafternoon, on a clock 12. Scuba diver’s locale 72. Ad ____ (improvise) 22. Tennis legend Arthur 74. Frazier’s rival 24. Exploded 75. Fa follower 76. “Major Crimes” network 26. Light ____ 28. Sounding like a lovebird 77. House addition 29. Milo’s pal 78. CD-____ 79. Pigpen 30. Jury 80. Compass reading 32. “____ Loser” (2 wds.)

81. Tricky 33. ____ processing 82. “Sesame Street” network (abbr.)

34. Fusses 36. Perfect examples 38. Cooks bacon 40. “Diana” singer Paul 41. Clears out 44. ____ Domini 47. Banned insecticide (abbr.)

49. Othello’s enemy 50. Cheese from Holland 52. Business leaders (abbr.)

54. They form corners 56. Designer Bill ____ 57. Transplant 58. Insinuate 60. Boring tool 62. Insect young 65. Marshal Wyatt 66. Lump 67. Purposes 70. Those holding office 71. Adherent (suffix) 73. Social reformer Nellie

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WISCONSIN BADGERS

Location: Madison, Wisconsin 2018 record: 8-5 Head coach: Paul Chryst 2019 record so far: 3-0 Record against OSU since 2010: 1-6

BRIAN NELSON Sports Director nelson.1302@osu.edu

Wisconsin is quickly proving that 2018 was an outlier in the program’s history.

This past season was the worst year for the Badgers since 2012 — back in Bret Bielema’s final year as head coach. Wisconsin finished with an 8-5 record and missed the Big Ten Championship for the first time since 2015.

After a convincing win over then-No. 13 Michigan 35-14 last Saturday, the No. 8 Badgers showed they are to be taken seriously, especially in Big Ten title conversations.

Injuries to key players on defense coupled with an injury to former starting quarterback Alex Hornibrook were key reasons for 2018’s struggles. Hornibrook is no longer with Wisconsin though, having transferred to Florida State in the offseason, giving Wisconsin a new starter at quarterback for the first time in three seasons.

Junior quarterback Jack Coan took the reins for the Badgers after Hornibrook suffered a concussion against Illinois in Week 7 last year.

Coan threw for 515 yards with a 60.2 percent completion rate and five touchdowns over the final five games of the season.

Coan has continued to improve through three games in 2019. He’s already completed more passes than he did in 2018 — from 56 to 58 — and has thrown for more yards with 692 in two fewer games.

Wisconsin also returns several wide receivers who struggled in 2018, but have potential. Seniors Quintez Cephus and A.J. Taylor, redshirt junior Kendrick Pryor and junior Danny Davis are some of the options Coan has at his disposal.

The stabilization of the passing game makes an already potent running game that much more difficult

OHIO STATE BUCKEYES

Thursday, September 26, 2019 | The Lantern | 11

to counter. Junior running back Jonathan Taylor led the country in rushing in 2018 with 2,194 yards. Through three games, he not only has rushed for 440 yards and seven touchdowns, but has thrust himself into the Heisman Trophy discussion after 203 of those yards and two touchdowns came in the first half against Michigan.

Defensively, Wisconsin has lost its top two tacklers in T.J. Edwards and Ryan Connelly, but still returns plenty of starters to make the Badgers strong on both sides of the field.

The linebacker position holds the most experience, with seniors Zack Baun and Chris Orr returning as starters. Baun in particular has gotten off to a strong start in 2019, second on the team with 12 total takedowns, five tackles for loss and three sacks.

The defensive line was a question mark for Wisconsin heading into 2019, with redshirt junior defensive end Isaiahh Loudermilk being the only starter with significant playing time in 2018. However, Wisconsin is leading the country in run defense, giving up only 27 yards per game.

The secondary has several returning starters, but is still a young group overall with plenty of former freshmen returning for their second year. Starting cornerbacks are sophomores Deron Harrell and Faion Hicks. Redshirt freshman Reggie Pearson is getting playing time at strong safety in his first full year. Redshirt junior Eric Burrell is the only upperclassman starting at a defensive back position.

Wisconsin has several upcoming tests to reach the Big Ten Championship, but the Badgers have the benefit of facing No. 25 Michigan State, Northwestern and No. 14 Iowa at Camp Randall.

Their biggest test will be the upcoming matchup against No. 5 Ohio State in Columbus Oct. 26, but even a loss there leaves Wisconsin as the favorite to win the Big Ten West division.

Wisconsin aced its first test against Michigan. It remains to be seen whether the Badgers can pass the remaining tests on their schedule.

GABE BURGGAF For The Lantern burggaf.34@osu.edu

the sophomore from Kennesaw, Georgia, will likely remain in the Heisman Trophy conversation.

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR IN 2019

KEY DEFENSIVE PLAYER

The Buckeyes dominated Florida Atlantic at home to open Ryan Day’s debut as full-time head coach, trouncing the Owls 45-21. Hosting in-state rival Cincinnati in Week 2, the defense came into form, shutting out the Bearcats in a 42-0 rout. Traveling to Indiana in Week 3, the Buckeyes decimated the Hoosiers 51-10 to begin Big Ten conference play. Returning home, Ohio State gave up an early safety, which led to a Miami (Ohio) field goal before the Buckeyes responded with 76 unanswered points to defeat the Redhawks.

KEY OFFENSIVE PLAYER Sophomore quarterback Justin Fields, a transfer from Georgia, takes the reins of an explosive offensive unit for the Buckeyes.

A former five-star recruit, Fields has embraced his new role as field general with 19 total touchdowns, 880 passing yards and 150 rushing yards in the first four games.

More importantly, his improved decision-making and ability to escape pressure have allowed him to find open receivers on the run. With help in the backfield from junior running back J.K. Dobbins and deep threat wide receivers sophomore Chris Olave and senior Binjimen Victor, Fields must lead Ohio State through the Big Ten gantlet. If the Buckeyes emerge unscathed,

Leading the charge against opposing quarterbacks is team captain and junior defensive end Chase Young. Young is off to an excellent start for Ohio State, currently tied for the most sacks in the NCAA with seven in four games. Young had two strip sacks in the second quarter alone against Miami, both of which led to Ohio State touchdowns. Young has even gotten his hands dirty on special teams, blocking a field goal against Cincinnati. Young’s aggressiveness has allowed the secondary to ball-hawk, making the opposing quarterback pass before being set and influencing errant throws and missed reads. Projected as an early first-round pick in this year’s NFL Draft, Young is an early front-runner for Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.

WEAKNESSES The Buckeye defense has been stout against the run but given up great yardage through the air. Ohio State is No. 19 in the NCAA against the pass, and the secondary will need to tighten up against short throws and quick receivers in order to survive a grueling Big Ten schedule, which includes four ranked opponents. Though all of Ohio State’s games have been blowouts, Fields is throwing for just 220 yards per game, ranking No. 8 in the Big Ten. That figure is well below the 345 yards former quarterback Dwayne Haskins averaged in 2018, and it will be interesting to see if Fields can consistently move the ball in must-pass situations against Big Ten defenses.

Location: Columbus, Ohio 2018 record: 13-1 Head coach: Ryan Day 2019 record so far: 7-0 Record against OSU since 2010: 4-0

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Stack your roster!

PROU D SPONSOR OF OHIO STATE ATHLETICS Buckeye fans, visit us in the Gateway District or at Olentangy River Rd. & Ackerman Rd.

UP NORTH

Why Michigan won’t live up to expectations MEGHAN CARROLL Lantern reporter caroll.677@osu.edu The countdown clock to “The Game” in the middle of the Woody Hayes Athletic Center is ticking year-round, even if Michigan might not be Ohio State’s biggest competitor this season.

Michigan (2-1, 0-1 Big Ten) has proved it is not the team most people thought it would be this season, with many networks predicting it would win the Big Ten Conference or make it to the College Football Playoff. Now the question is whether the rivalry game against Ohio State will be as competitive as in years past because of Michigan’s performance so far this season.

With a 35-14 loss to then-No. 11 Wisconsin and a questionable close game under their belt, the Wolverines have challenges to overcome before they can begin to think about Ohio State or the postseason.

Michigan surprised its fans after a loss to then-No. 13 Wisconsin and a narrow win that took double-overtime to achieve against a non-Power Five Army team in its second game of the season.

Against Army, Michigan senior quar-

terback Shea Patterson fumbled on the first play of the game and again two series later, along with a fumble by sophomore running back Ben VanSumeren in the second quarter. Michigan has fumbled 11 times — with seven lost — in its three games.

The Wolverines lost three fumbles the entire 2018 season.

After its close win against Army, Michigan had a bye week that was supposed to help alleviate its issues, but after facing Wisconsin, it seems that the situation is not something that can be solved in one bye week.

The offense is struggling with throwing accuracy, completing 53 percent of its passes. Picking up just 127 yards per game on the ground is something that will affect the Wolverines heading into future Big Ten play.

Under new offensive coordinator Josh Gattis, the Wolverines installed a spread offense for the 2019 season, moving away from the classic, powerful under center looks it gave in previous seasons under Harbaugh. Even under Gattis, the offense continues to struggle.

Michigan allowed Wisconsin to score 28 points in the first quarter with Wisconsin junior running back Jonathan

Taylor rushing for 143 rushing yards and two touchdowns in the opening 15 minutes.

With Ohio State rushing for 260 yards per game, top 15 in the nation, Michigan’s rush defense will need to improve if it expects to compete in November.

The inconsistent play

by Michigan will only be harder to overcome as it looks at the teams coming up in its schedule: No. 14 Iowa, No. 10 Notre Dame, No. 12 Penn State, No. 25 Michigan State and No. 6 Ohio State.

After just three games, Michigan has gone from No. 7 to No. 20 in the AP Top 25 rankings, and every game performance will be a testament to how it compares to the rest of the Big Ten. This year will be Ohio State head coach Ryan Day’s first game at the helm against Michigan, and while the anticipation is there, there’s also the question of whether Michigan will provide the level of competition expected from “The Game.”

MICHIGAN WOLVERINES COURTESY OF TNS

KHALID HASHI Assistant Sports Director hashi.20@osu.edu On Dec. 30, 2014, Jim Harbaugh was officially named the 20th head coach at Michigan.

After poor performances under Rich Rodriguez and Brady Hoke, Michigan believed Harbaugh could turn things around.

Three games into his fifth season as head coach, Harbaugh has a record of 40-15.

Over the course of his Michigan tenure, Harbaugh is 0-4 against Ohio State, 1-9 against top 10 opponents, 0-7 as the underdog and 1-6 on the road against ranked opponents.

The talent has been there for Michigan, as its had three top ten recruiting classes, including the No. 5 class of 2017.

After finishing no higher than

No. 53 nationally in passing offense during Harbaugh’s first three seasons, including a No. 111 finish in 2017, the Wolverines are hoping senior quarterback Shea Patterson can lead them to their first College Football Playoff appearance, even after those aspirations took a massive hit following a 35-14 loss to then-No. 13 Wisconsin.

The former five-star recruit and Ole Miss transfer had an impressive 2018 season, as he threw for 2,600 yards and 22 touchdowns in his first season as a Wolverine.

Complementing Patterson is junior wide receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones, who finished the 2018 season with 612 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. The former five-star recruit has been battling a lower leg injury but made his season debut in Week 4 against Wisconsin, his only recep-

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan 2018 record: 10-3 Head coach: Jim Harbaugh 2019 record so far: 2-1 Record against OSU since 2010: 1-8

tion coming on a five-yard touchdown pass from Patterson.

Michigan also will lean on freshman running back Zach Charbonnet, who is looking to replace Karon Higdon’s production. Higdon finished 2018 with 1,178 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Charbonnet was a four-star recruit and the No. 4 running back in the class of 2019.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Wolverines are replacing a few key pieces from their 2018 defense, which ranked No. 2 in the nation for yards allowed.

Linebacker Devin Bush, defensive back David Long and defensive linemen Rashan Gary and Chase Winovich were all selected

i n the

2019 NFL Draft.

Leading the Wolverines’ secondary is senior defensive back Lavert Hill, who finished 2018 with first-team All-Big Ten honors, third-team All-American honors and was a Jim Thorpe Award finalist, an award that recognizes the nation’s best defensive back.

Senior linebacker Khaleke Hudson anchors the Wolverine defense, as he leads the team with 34 tackles.

The Wolverines are off to a rocky start, as they are currently 2-1 with wins over Middle Tennessee and Army, who took them to overtime, with their only loss coming from Wisconsin.

Michigan’s upcoming schedule only gets tougher as five of

its nine remaining games come against ranked opponents, including No. 14 Iowa, No. 12 Penn State, No. 10 Notre Dame, No. 25 Michigan State and No. 5 Ohio State.

The rivalry game against Ohio State will be in Ann Arbor, where the Wolverines will look to snap the Buckeyes’ seven-game win streak against them.

Michigan’s last win against Ohio State came in 2011 when it defeated the Buckeyes 40-34.

Then-quarterback Denard Robinson exploded for 167 passing yards and three touchdowns while also rushing for 170 yards and two scores on the ground in the victory.

The Wolverines lead the alltime series with a record of 5850-6. However, the Buckeyes have won 14 of the past 16 matchups.

Michigan looks to improve to 3-1 on the season when it faces off against Rutgers Saturday at home.