Tuesday, November 10, 2020

Buckeyes take sloppy win over Rutgers 49-27

 Ohio State was expected to dust the Rutgers Scarlet Knights and they were never threatened in a 49-27 victory.

However, the win wasn't a perfect one as the Buckeyes were far from smooth and Rutgers did take advantage of some sloppy play in the win, so this wasn't a machine-like win.

Justin Fields completed 24 of 28 passes for 314 yards and five touchdowns and Garrett Wilson led the skill players with six catches and 104 yards with a touchdown.

The now 3-0 Buckeyes will travel to College Park on Saturday against a suddenly resurgent Maryland club.

Since this is two days late, I'm going to cut this a bit shorter than usual.

Olentangy Offerings

1) Greg Schiano knows the Buckeyes personnel very well from his time in Columbus and that's why I am not as bothered as some with a 22 point win over the usual weak sister from New Jersey.
When the coach knows the personnel that well, it's a huge advantage.

2) Schiano also earns kudos for his gimmick plays and throwing everything against the wall with his outmanned squad.
Schiano used onside kicks, reverses, going for two point conversions several times, and several other plays that at least showed Rutgers was trying to win.
That's the type of entertaining football that could attract recruits to a flagging program.

3) Justin Fields has more touchdowns than incomplete passes on the season.
After three games...

4) Tackling is still a little sloppy, especially from the defensive backs and that will have to improve against a Maryland squad with talent at the skill positions.
Miss a tackle against the Terrapins and it can go to the house.

5) Some are concerned about the running game and the lack of breakaway threats, but there could be one looming in the distance.
DeMario McCall had one carry for 27 yards and showed the speed to do more with the ball.
McCall has never seemed to have won over the coaching staff and I'm not sure that will do the trick either.
Still, I'd like to see more.

I've been busy this weekend and now three days late, I figured I'd cut this shorter than usual

No comments: