Penn State Offensive Player to Watch: Running back Nick Singleton
Josh Dooley via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
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Dan Rainville / USA TODAY NETWORK

The top running back in the 2022 recruiting class has made a smooth transition to college football, and will be looking to run past the Buckeyes in Happy Valley.

The Buckeyes will be hitting the road again this weekend and heading to Happy Valley, for what is likely to be a tough matchup in a traditionally hostile environment. Ohio State is set to face Penn State, the 13th-ranked team in the country. While the Nittany Lions will not technically be OSU’s highest-ranked opponent to date, they will be the most deserving of their top-tier status (sorry Notre Dame fans, but we go through this every year).

PSU is 6-1 on the season, and seems to have found its pre-pandemic groove once again. After compiling an 11-11 record between 2020 and 2021, James Franklin has his guys back in the national spotlight and ready to compete for Big Ten relevancy.

The biggest issue plaguing Penn State in recent seasons was a subpar offense. Said offense was weighed down even further by poor offensive line play, leaving the Nittany Lion defense to try and win games essentially on their own. And it is a shame, because those units had a ton of talent. But getting back to the offense: PSU may have finally solved the puzzle up front.

The team is averaging 178.4 rushing yards per game, on 5.0 yards per carry, and they have generally protected quarterback Sean Clifford when he drops back to pass. But perhaps it is all coincidental. Perhaps Clifford has finally developed better pocket presence after nearly a decade in college, and what if improvements in the run game are not O-line driven, but a result of significant talent upgrades in the backfield?

Ignoring the Clifford factor briefly, I believe Penn State’s offensive line has improved. But not so much so that the big men up front should suddenly be viewed as road graders. I think the unit has gone from below-average to average, and benefitted from a better collection of backs behind them. But still, the team’s second-leading rusher, Kaytron Allen, is only averaging 5.1 yards per carry. Keyvone Lee, the team’s leading rusher last season, sits at 3.8 YPC. And Clifford, while being sacked less, is not making chunk plays with his legs. Those players have been rather pedestrian as runners.

So where is the upgrade? It comes in the form of one true freshman named Nick Singleton. The top RB from the 2021 recruiting class – who grew up just a few hours from the PSU campus – has hit the ground running (literally and figuratively), and appears to be the answer these Nittany Lions have been looking for since Saquon Barkley toted the rock for them. Singleton, while somewhat inconsistent, is one of the most explosive backs in the country, and this week’s Offensive Player to Watch.


Singleton was an absolute star in high school, finishing as the No. 1 RB in his class according to 247Sports. One of their analysts compared him to the Cleveland Browns’ Nick Chubb, and I can’t honestly say they were far off. At 6-foot, 215 pounds, not only did Singleton run over players on the football field, but he also ran sprints and threw the shotput for his school’s track team. I myself threw shotput in high school, and let me tell you: Field event athletes do not typically excel at anything to do with running. That takes a special type of athlete. Singleton was named Gatorade National Player of the Year, finishing with over 2,000 yards and 44 touchdowns as a senior.

Once on campus in Happy Valley, the true freshman was expected to compete for a role right away. Because not only did Penn State struggle to run the ball in 2021, but they had limited depth returning. Noah Cain moved on to LSU, and (Keyvon) Lee had done little to cement himself as an unquestioned alpha in the RB room. After a rough opener for all PSU ball carriers, in which they combined for 98 yards on 32 carries, Singleton quickly began to establish himself at “the man” in Week 2.

Against an inferior Ohio Bobcat team, Singleton did what he was supposed to do against a weaker opponent. He ran over, around, and past them. On just 10 carries, the fab frosh gained 179 yards and scored two TDs. He also returned two kicks for 40 yards, netting him a total of 219. His first career score was a 70-yard run, during which he blew by nearly all of the Bobcat defenders, displaying that impressive track speed. He also added a 44-yard score in the second half, to go with a number of other chunk plays.

Singleton took a huge step back and was not nearly as efficient against Auburn in Week 3, finishing with only 124 yards on the same number of carries (10). For shame! 20 carries for 303 yards and 2 TD, over a two-game span, is real amateur hour if you ask me. But in all seriousness, Singleton had established himself as a Freshman All-American candidate after just a few weeks.

He then began a bit of an actual drop-off, with the Nittany Lions encountering stiffer competition and Allen shouldering more of the load. Singleton rushed for 42 yards against Central Michigan, while Allen led the team with 111 and a TD. In three games since, the two freshmen have put near-identical stats against Northwestern, TTUN, and Minnesota – to the point where you would think I am making them up.

During that three-game stretch, Allen carried the ball 42 times for 179 yards, at a clip of 4.3 YPC. Singleton toted the rock 40 times for 185 yards, giving him a slight edge in efficiency at 4.6 YPC. The latter also scored three TDs to Allen’s one during that timeframe, but the rest of their numbers are strangely similar. I expect both backs to see heavy usage against the Buckeyes, but the former Gatorade POTY strikes me as a slightly bigger threat.


That is because Singleton is able to do just about everything with the ball in his hands. He is quick and decisive with cuts, strong enough to break tackles, and more than fast enough to pull away from defenders in the open field. His one glaring weakness is actually getting said ball into his hands, at least when it is thrown directly at him. The young thoroughbred has only five catches on the season, and his lack of receiving volume is nothing new. Going back to his Gatorade POTY season, he only registered four catches in 2021! But Singleton can only do what he is asked to do, and if that is to function as a two-down back, then he has at least proven to be a productive one.

Ohio State will have their hands full with this star freshman on Saturday. In addition to Singleton’s excellence, the Buckeyes will have to contend with a veteran in Clifford, as well as a number of skilled pass catchers. This Penn State offense is not the same dreadful (at times) unit we saw in 2020-21. They are a legitimate Big Ten contender, and a threat to the good guys. If Jim Knowles and his OSU defense can contain Singleton, and force the rest of the Nittany Lions to try and beat them, then I think they will have chosen the right gameplan. But it won’t be easy. Here’s hoping they can replicate the defensive performance they put forth against Wisconsin and the Badgers’ strong running attack. Go Bucks!

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pnuts34 said:

He looks like a bad guy from The Karate Kid or one of those ski movies from the 80s

Click to expand...

And about 28 yrs old

MC&J: Can Ohio State beat Penn State by more than two touchdowns in State College?
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Buckeyes are looking for their first win by more than 14 points over the Nittany Lions in State College since 2009.

Last week ATS: 5-7 (2-3 B1G, 3-4 National)

Season ATS: 57-67-3 (28-34-1 B1G, 29-32-2 National)

For my prognostications on Kentucky-Tennessee, TCU-West Virginia, and five other national games, you can find them here.

B1G games:


(All lines courtesy of Draftkings Sportsbook.)

Rutgers v. Minnesota (-14) - 2:30 p.m. - Big Ten Network

Minnesota is really reeling right now. The Golden Gophers are coming off a very unhappy trip to Happy Valley, falling to Penn State 45-17. It’s not hard to figure out what Minnesota is: Mohamed Ibrahim and a solid defense. Jump out in front of the Golden Gophers and they are going to have a tough time catching up since they are so reliant on the run.

Unfortunately for Rutgers, they aren’t a team that is going to get up a couple scores early on an opponent, unless it is some cupcake. The Scarlet Knights are going to try to run the football and put their defense in good position to possibly create some turnovers. The 24 points they scored last week against Indiana was their second-highest scoring output of the season.

Remember earlier in the year when Minnesota was trucking opponents? I’m not saying this game is going to look exactly like that, but this feels like a game where Ibrahim and company take out some frustrations on the Scarlet Knights. The Golden Gophers snap their three-game losing streak with a three touchdown win.

Minnesota 34, Rutgers 13


No. 17 Illinois (-7.5) v. Nebraska - 3:30 p.m. - ABC

Illinois doesn’t play the sexiest football, and that’s exactly how Bret Bielema likes it. Chase Brown has been a horse for the Fighting Illini so far this season, leading the country with 1,059 yards rushing. Syracuse transfer quarterback Tommy DeVito has been smart with the football and made plays when needed, throwing 10 touchdowns and just two interceptions.

How far has Nebraska fallen? A 43-37 loss to Purdue doesn’t seem like all that bad of a result for the Cornhuskers right now. Nebraska has some ok pieces on offense with quarterback Casey Thompson, running back Anthony Grant, and receiver Trey Palmer. Their defense is just so bad, though.

Lincoln certainly doesn’t have the same mystique that it used to. Illinois already went to Madison and opened a can on Wisconsin earlier this year, so their is no reason to think they can do the same at the home of another fading Big Ten program. The Fighting Illini are going to use Brown to control the clock and wear down an already weak Nebraska defense. Illinois continues to put themselves in position to take a trip to Indianapolis in December.

Illinois 31, Nebraska 17


Northwestern v. Iowa (-11) - 3:30 p.m. - ESPN2

Can these teams even combine to score 11 points? I’m skeptical. Last week Northwestern scored 24 points in a loss to Maryland, snapping a two-game streak in which they failed to reach double digits on the scoreboard. The Wildcats were at least able to get their ground game going a little bit, rushing for over 200 yards in the game.

We all saw just how bad Iowa is on offense this year. Offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz should be on trial for war crimes for the offense he is running. There is no imagination with anything Iowa does, and that just doesn’t work these days in college football. Who I feel bad for is the Iowa defense, because they have some good players that are getting absolutely no help from their offense. Honestly, the Iowa defense is the offense.

I’m not expecting Iowa to reinvent the wheel after the criticism that has been hurdled at the Kirk and Brian Ferentz, but maybe they at least introduce a few little wrinkles to build even the slightest bit of confidence. Even with everything I said about Iowa, they know how to beat bad teams. Just look at what they did to Rutgers, winning 27-10 on the road. Beating a Northwestern team that is terrible by a couple touchdowns isn’t asking all that much.

Iowa 24, Northwestern 10


Michigan State v. No. 4 Michigan (-23) - 7:30 p.m. - ABC

Which Michigan team do we get in this game? Is it the Wolverine team that blew the doors of Penn State, or is it the Michigan team that had decent wins against Maryland and Indiana but weren’t all the impressive? Jim Harbaugh’s team knows if they handle their business they are on a collision course with Ohio State. While the running game of the Wolverines gets a lot of attention, J.J. McCarthy should have a strong night against one of the worst passing defenses in the country.

A win against Wisconsin doesn’t just fix everything for the Spartans. Even though it was nice to add to the misery of the Badgers, the Spartans still have a bad defense. Last year Kenneth Walker III was able to make up for some of the defensive lapses with his incredible season, but Michigan State hasn’t found anyone that has come close to replicating what Walker did last year.

I know Michigan State has had Michigan’s number lately. This sort of feels like 2019 when Michigan smashed their rival in Ann Arbor. It’s hard to not see the defense of the Wolverines causing a lot of problems for Payton Thorne and the Spartans. Michigan is a lot better team than Michigan State, and it will show on Saturday night.

Michigan 44, Michigan State 17


No. 2 Ohio State (-14.5) v. No. 13 Penn State - 12:00 p.m. - FOX

Both Ohio State and Penn State come into this game off of big wins last week. The Buckeyes housed Iowa 54-10, while the Nittany Lions ran away from Minnesota in the second half on Saturday night. It is fitting this game usually takes place around Halloween since usually some really weird things happen, especially when it takes place in State College. Luckily this game isn’t under the lights, nullifying Penn State’s “white out” sorcery.

Even though Ohio State went into halftime up by 16 last week, the way some people were talking you would think they were down by 16. Sometimes it feels like fans expect the Buckeyes to play perfect football, and even the littlest thing will set people off. Even though Ohio State somehow played unacceptable football to some in the first half, they still scored 54 points in the game.

Right now it’s hard to think of anyone in the country that would be able to keep pace with Ohio State. The Nittany Lions have a decent offense, but you know what you are getting with Sean Clifford since there is plenty of tape on him from his 83 years as starting quarterback. Freshman running back Nick Singleton is going to be a problem for the Big Ten the next few years, though.

Each week you can see Ohio State’s defense gaining confidence, as they are becoming more comfortable running Jim Knowles’ defense. Last week the Buckeyes forced a bunch of turnovers against Iowa, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see them force Clifford into some mistakes on Saturday. It’ll be interesting to see if Ohio State gets to Clifford early, does James Franklin turn to Drew Allar?

Penn State at noon doesn’t scare me anywhere close to how much Penn State at night in State College does. Even though the Nittany Lions have a tough defense, they aren’t unbreakable. Just look what Michigan did to them a couple weeks ago. There are going to be moments when the Buckeyes have some lapses on defense, but the offense is going to more than make up for them, notching another 50-point performance.

Ohio State 52, Penn State 27

Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.

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Ohio State women’s basketball player preview: Taylor Thierry
1ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Barbara J. Perenic/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

The Cleveland, Ohio forward impressed last year, and returns for season two with the Scarlet & Gray

The attention given to the Buckeyes last season centered around guards Jacy Sheldon and Taylor Mikesell, and rightfully so. They took charge of the Ohio State offense and put the team’s scoring on their back towards a season title and Sweet Sixteen NCAA Tournament run.

Basketball is a team game, and even they’d say that it took effort throughout the lineup to bounce back from the tough couple seasons the Buckeyes went through leading up to last year. A surprise within last year’s team is next up in the list of Land-Grant Holy Land player previews — forward Taylor Thierry.

Thierry returns after a surprise freshman season, and won’t be able to surprise people anymore. Has she done enough this offseason to take a starting spot?


Name: Taylor Thierry
Position: Forward
Class: Sophomore
High School: Shaker Heights Laurel High School (Shaker Heights, Ohio)
2021-22 Stats: 2.9 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 0.8 apg, .541 FG%, .200 3FG%, .645 FT%

Last Season


Thierry joined the Buckeyes for the 2021-22 season, and entered a locker room void of presence in the paint. Aaliyah Patty and Dorka Juhasz, both starters for head coach Kevin McGuff’s side, transferred to Texas A&M and UConn respectively after missing a year of postseason basketball. Had they not transferred, Ohio State might not have seen the type of player they have in Thierry.

At the beginning of the year, Thierry earned minutes as the Buckeyes mostly coasted through a light non-conference schedule. They came as Ohio State was up big on the scoreboard, or giving the three primary forwards time to rest on the bench.

As the calendar turned from 2021 to 2022, that’s when things changed for Thierry’s standing in the Buckeyes rotation. After averaging 11.1 minutes for the first half of the season, Thierry’s minutes and responsibilities jumped as high as her.

Although Thierry’s 5-foot-11 frame isn’t the tallest on the court, she’s repeatedly heralded by McGuff and teammates as the most athletic player on the floor. The forward grabbed rebounds and steals, plus blocks inside the paint and outside the arc. Thierry’s minutes moved from at the end of quarters to early in games, against some of the toughest sides in the conference.

Against the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Feb. 10, Thierry tied her season high of nine points and added seven rebounds, three blocks and two steals. Her biggest moment came in the game that earned Ohio State a trophy, in an away trip to Michigan State.

On the final day of Big Ten conference play, Thierry had 11 rebounds and an astounding six steals, on top of seven points, to help lock up a share of the conference title. In the final minute of the game, in a matchup where the Scarlet & Gray were out-rebounded on the offensive boards 24 to 10, Thierry grabbed an offensive rebound off a miss by Sheldon to put herself at the line. The Buckeyes edged Sparty 61-55.

Thierry’s minutes moved up to 18.5 per game in her final 15 games, and only hit single-digit minutes once due to fouls in the Big Ten Tournament Semifinal against the Indiana Hoosiers.

What to Expect


When Thierry gets on the court, mistakes from the opposition are exploited. With her ability to jump and move quickly on the court, blocks and steals that are usually missed by others look easy to Thierry.

In 21-22, Thierry led the team with 28 blocks and finished second with 46 offensive rebounds. What Thierry’s lacked in offense is made up for and then some in how her energy and court presence gives Ohio State an edge.

An area of concern, outside of lower scoring numbers for a potential starter, is foul trouble. Not that Thierry fouls more than others, it’s her reaction to the fouls. While any player is frustrated when they hear a whistle against them, it made Thierry less impactful on the court.

With that said, Thierry is in her second season with the Buckeyes and has the momentum of her last season to build upon. A second offseason, and more time with a team that lost only one starter from last year, should give Thierry the confidence to grow on the team.

Prediction


Competition at forward is an area to watch in 22-23. McGuff said in the Buckeye’s first media availability of the season that its an open competition across the board. That makes much more sense in the paint.

Thierry will compete with freshman Cotie McMahon and experienced bigs like Rebeka Mikulášiková, Karla Vres and Eboni Walker. It’s a tall task for Thierry, who seems more shy than her counterparts. Even so, Thierry should either start or be the first forward onto the court, like Beacham’s role last season.

If McGuff’s comments regarding Thierry making strides this offseason can come to fruition, and it comes in the form of offensive growth, it could be a year that catapults Thierry to the next level.

Highlights


Thierry (14) played an important bench role in the Buckeyes final regular season game of the season. Check out her highlights from that game, including a late block and steal leading to a Sheldon fast break, starting at 4:35.


Miss any player previews? Here’s the list so far:

• Taylor Mikesell
• Eboni Walker
• Madison Greene
• Emma Shumate
• Cotie McMahon
• Rebeka Mikulášiková
• Rikki Harris

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You’re Nuts: Will Ohio State be a top-four team in the Big Ten this season?
justingolba via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

The Buckeyes finished second in the Big Ten in 2018, and were tied for fourth last season.

The wait is over. By this time next week, Ohio State will have already played live basketball, on their home court, with fans in the seats. Sure, an exhibition against the Silverswords of Chaminade will only tell us so much, but seeing the team play in front of a crowd, with lineups introduced, lights shining bright, and fouls actually being counted is the closest thing to college hoops we’ve had since April. More on this Ohio State team momentarily.

Last week, Connor and Justin made their picks for this season’s Final Four in Houston. Both guys picked North Carolina and Houston to fill out half of their Final Four. But Connor went with TCU and Miami, while Justin took Creighton and Virginia.


It was close (ish) — Justin’s Final Four received 56% of the vote, and Connor’s picked up the remaining 44%. Justin’s Final Four seemed more reasonable to the people, so he wins last week’s debate.

After 73 weeks:

Connor- 31
Justin- 30
Other- 8

(There have been four ties)


As previously stated, we’re back to talking about the Buckeyes this week. To earn the coveted double-bye in the Big Ten Tournament, you have to finish in the top four in the conference. Chris Holtmann’s Ohio State teams have earned that double-bye in one of the four B1G Tournaments they’ve competed in — back in 2018. Last season, they finished tied for fourth, but lost tiebreakers and wound up with the 6-seed.

Will they slide back into the top four this year?

Today’s question: Will Ohio State be a top-four team in the Big Ten this season?

Connor: No

Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

For the first time in awhile, I do not think that the media polls and preseason services are disrespecting Ohio State with where they are picking them to finish in the Big Ten. The preseason media poll has them pegged as the No. 6 team in the conference, while the Field of 68’s Almanac picked Ohio State to finish fourth. Anywhere from four to six feels acceptable, to me.

Especially during what’s expected to be a “down” year for the B1G, the Buckeyes waltzing into the top-four and earning a double-bye in the Big Ten Tournament would shock very few people. Hell, Wisconsin wasn’t even picked to finish in the top eight last season, and they won the league! Anything can happen.

But unfortunately, I think this team resembles the 2018-2019 team that went 8-12 in conference play a lot more than the 2017-2018 team that went 15-3.

For starters, this looks like a team that’s going to struggle shooting the ball from outside. Sean McNeil will knock down his fair share of three-pointers, but beyond him, Ohio State doesn’t have any established threats. Justice Sueing and Gene Brown have shown that they can connect from out there, but not consistently. Brice Sensabaugh’s three-point shooting has been hyped up quite a bit since he committed last year, but relying on a freshman to become a 36-40% shooter from outside is a longshot.


Ohio State finished No. 111 in defensive efficiency last year according to KenPom, so the only way to go — hopefully — is up. Adding Sueing and Oklahoma State transfer Isaac Likekele will give the Buckeyes two very flexible pieces on defense, so switching should become a lot smoother and fewer mismatches will happen off those screens. But also relying on four freshmen to not make freshmen mistakes is asking a lot out of them.


In short, this team isn’t going to burn the nets from deep, and will have some extended dry stretches on offense. At the same time, they should be a fine defensive team, but not great and certainly not elite on that end. Throw in needing to rely on four freshmen to play crucial minutes on top of that, and there’s just too many variables to confidently say Ohio State will be a top-four team in the Big Ten.

Justin: Yes

Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

First of all, everyone knows I tend to be an optimist.

So let’s start with the obvious. As I have mentioned before, I like to do tiers more than rankings when it comes to teams and players. Tier 1 in the conference this season is pretty set. Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois in whatever order you prefer at least seem like the favorites coming into the season. As we saw last season, anything can happen and the games are decided on the court, but these are the three that stand out early on.

After that, you have teams like Iowa, Ohio State, Michigan State, Purdue, and Rutgers in tier 2. These are the teams that should make the NCAA Tournament, but likely are not contenders to win the conference for whatever reason or flaw they have.

I think these will be the teams that finish 4-8 (wouldn’t be surprised if Penn State snuck in to the top eight but that’s a conversation for another day). It isn’t implausible that Ohio State can finish in the top four and beat Michigan State, Purdue and Iowa head-to-head.

This is also the space where the Buckeyes tend to live under Chris Holtmann. Since Holtmann took over, the Buckeyes have finished in the top five in the conference four times out of five and the top four of the conference twice. This isn’t the Buckeyes’ worst team since Holtmann took over, so it should pretty much be expected at this point.

It is very difficult to truly project where this Ohio State team will finish because of the injury concerns and the reliance on freshmen. However, it seems Justice Sueing and Zed Key are fully healthy, and the freshmen have been impressive in practice thus far, so I am comfortable being optimistic and picking them to finish fourth. I would be pretty shocked if the finished above any of the big three though.

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Three Things To Watch from the Penn State Nittany Lions
CMinnich via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images

The Buckeyes are on upset alert as they travel to Happy Valley.

Oct. 27, 2001. We will come back to that date later on in the article, but I just wanted to throw that out there at the onset.

A little bit of confession time here — I have never been to Beaver Stadium, so I am writing from the perspective of an Ohio State fan who knows several people who have made the trip. It is a goal of mine for me and Mrs. Minnich to someday attend a game there, but for now, I will merely pass on the advice of others who have made the trip: leave early, as the traffic will be challenging.

On to Penn State. Ohio State holds a five-game winning streak over Penn State, including two games that were in Beaver Stadium. Penn State is still smarting from the thrashing they received at the hands of Michigan on Oct. 15, but the Nittany Lions rebounded nicely last week in their impressive 45-17 home win over Minnesota.

“When you look at the tradition and the games that have been played by Penn State and Ohio State — not only in the last decade but further back than that — are some of the biggest games that we’ve had. There have been some huge games and this is one of the reasons you come to Ohio State is to play in games like this.” ~ Ohio State head coach Ryan Day, 10/27/2022

Ohio State is heavily favored by the oddsmakers (-15.5), but the Nittany Lions always seem to play Ohio State very close, and something tells me that this game is going to have many Ohio State fans, including this one, with some anxious thoughts as this game winds down closer to the end. Below are Three Things To Watch from Penn State as the game kicks off on FOX at 12:00 p.m. ET...

1. Ohio State’s passing game vs. Penn State’s secondary

Ohio State fans have reveled in the accomplishments of quarterback C.J. Stroud and his receiving corps, especially in light of the departures of Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson to the NFL, as well as the unfortunate and lingering hamstring injury that has Jaxon Smith-Njigba a perpetual game-time decision this season. While Ohio State has every reason to be excited about their prowess in the passing game, Penn State fans are equally excited to see if the strength of their defense, the secondary, will be able to slow down, or neutralize the Ohio State receivers.

Some key players in Penn State’s secondary, CB Joey Porter, Jr., and S Ji’Ayir Brown, will have their hands full, but could also cause for some unaccustomed frustration by C.J. Stroud.

2. Penn State’s tight ends vs. Ohio State’s secondary

Penn State has three tight ends on their roster in Brenton Strange (17 receptions for 245 yards, 4 touchdowns), Theo Johnson (7 receptions for 94 yards, 1 touchdown), and Tyler Warren (5 receptions for 77 yards, 1 touchdown) that were all heavily involved in the big win over Minnesota. While Parker Washington (30 receptions) and Mitchell Tinsley (28 receptions) actually lead the team in receptions, Penn State quarterback Sean Clifford will look to use any of the tight ends in perceived coverage mismatches.

On our latest Silver Bullets Podcast, I estimated that Tanner McCallister may be called upon to cover any of the tight ends Penn State may be using in their offensive game plan.

3. The Penn State crowd impact

This is a rare noon kickoff. How rare? Oct. 27, 2001 — that was the last time Ohio State traveled to Penn State for a noon kickoff. Ever since then, the games have kicked off at 3:30 p.m. ET, with it being dark by the game’s conclusion, or a 7:00 p.m./8:00 p.m. ET kickoff, and the game being played under the lights at the onset.

Count me in as one of the Ohio State fans who breathed a sigh of relief that this game was not slated for a night kickoff, as the difficulty of playing well in the venue only increases after the Penn State fans have had a full day of... hydration. The Penn State fans will still be loud, the stadium speaker will still blast that incessant lion roar, but I don’t think it will be as difficult as it would have been at night.

As I wrote up above, Penn State always plays Ohio State close, and I think it will be late in the 4th quarter when the Buckeyes eventually pull away from the Nittany Lions. I have it Ohio State 38, Penn State 21. Go Bucks!

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Ohio State vs. Penn State: 2022 game preview and prediction
Meredith Hein via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images

After taking care of the Children of the Corn, the Buckeyes head to Happy Valley to face Penn State for a Halloween prequel.

The No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes will be looking to avoid tricks as they hope for the treat of a road win this Saturday against No. 13 Penn State in a noon matchup just before Halloween. What looked like a scary prospect just a few weeks ago looks more like a parody in the light of day as the Nittany Lions have struggled in recent weeks.

But Penn State has at times been a bogeyman for Ohio State. While the Buckeyes have been a nightmare scenario for opponents this season, they’ll look to avoid a shop of horrors on the road against a talented Penn State squad.


A Series of Fortunate Events

Ohio State owns the series against Penn State, 22-14. The Buckeyes are winners of the last five and nine of the last 10, with the Nittany Lions’ last win coming in 2016. However, the Buckeyes are a much-closer-to-.500 8-6 in Happy Valley, always the intimidating environment.

Last season, Ohio State emerged with a 33-24 win in Columbus, but things felt tense for a minute as the Buckeyes were down 7-3 at the end of the first quarter and tied in the third. It was a rare off game for C.J. Stroud, who had just one passing touchdown on the day (tied for his lowest total of the season). The offense went just 5-of-14 on third down and struggled to convert red zone possessions into touchdowns. Defense and special teams led the way for the Buckeyes. Four Noah Ruggles field goals and a defensive scoop-and-score proved the difference in the game for Ohio State.


Get Out

While 90% of horror movies happen in the home (yes, that is a made-up statistic), Ohio State’s experience in the Horseshoe this season has been nothing short of sunny. But at some point, the Buckeyes had to Get Out and see the world.

With a five-game homestand under their belts, the Buckeyes have played just one game outside of Columbus this season (a Saw-style methodical dismantling of Michigan State). This Nittany Lion monster, however, seems like a more adept one than the Spartans.

Penn State is 4-0 at home this season, with their most impressive win coming last week against Minnesota. In that matchup, James Franklin’s team bounced back from its loss to Michigan and an anemic win over Northwestern the preceding two weeks. The 45-17 victory was the Nittany Lions’ most impressive win since dismembering Auburn on the road early in the season.


The Upside Down

Somehow, the noon game is the primetime matchup on FOX, because this is the college football world we live in.

The site will be less eerie than the last time Ohio State traveled to Penn State on Halloween night in 2020 and played in front of an empty stadium. Hopefully the Penn State faithful got their white-out energy out of their system last week against Minnesota.

We’re definitely used to Ohio State and Penn State being a night game, as it’s been for the past two seasons. However, given the Buckeyes have already played three night games this season, some of our younger fans (and probably older ones, too) might appreciate being able to go to bed early for a change.


Franklin-stein

Despite Penn State’s recent struggles (and apparent tunnel drama with Michigan), head coach James Franklin has brought remarkable consistency to the Nittany Lions on his way to 73-35 overall and 45-29 in-conference records. He’s also been one of few coaches to have had Ohio State’s number, though not so much lately.

Importantly, for a program like Ohio State that’s been able to regularly blow out opponents, Penn State under Franklin has kept things close. In Franklin’s seven losses to Ohio State, the Buckeyes’ average margin of victory was just 10 points — far less than for any other Big Ten East opponent.

Franklin is also one of just four current Big Ten coaches to win a conference title (2016).


Sean of the Dead: Part VI

Horror movie franchises have a propensity for too many sequels. Penn State football is no different. Penn State’s super senior quarterback is in his sixth season with the program, but he’s never beaten his home state Buckeyes (Clifford hails from St. Xavier High School in Cincinnati). But don’t let his undead state fool you: Clifford’s got some moves up his sleeve.

Last week, Clifford earned Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week honors for his performance against Minnesota, which included 295 passing yards, four touchdowns and one pick, which essentially matched his week one performance against Purdue.

Like Stroud, Clifford’s 2021 performance against Ohio State was pretty unremarkable. Despite throwing for 361 yards and a touchdown, he also threw a pick late in the third quarter deep in his own territory which gave the Buckeyes the edge in what was at the time a close game.

Clifford’s best performance against the Buckeyes came in 2020, when he had 281 yards, three touchdowns and another pick in the Nittany Lions’ loss. Probably didn’t help that he was sacked five times.


Double double, toil and trouble

Last year, the Nittany Lions had just 33 yards rushing. The unit will be looking for retribution this season, and they have the tools to do it.

Penn State has a two-headed monster at running back between freshmen Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen. The pair are making up for a shotty rushing attack in 2021 with a collective 857 yards and 11 touchdowns. Neither player has crossed the century mark in the last three games, but they’re playing a true running back-by-committee approach which naturally limits individual yards. In fact, Singleton has 82 carries on the season to Allen’s 78.

It doesn’t hurt that Penn State has a more-mobile-than-Stroud quarterback (though that doesn’t take much). Clifford has added four scores on the ground this season.


Dawn of the Diaz

One of the highly touted coordinator moves this past offseason was Manny Diaz’s transition to defensive coordinator in State College following his ill-fated tenure in Miami. No surprise, Penn State has emerged with an effective defense, albeit not a flashy one. The Nittany Lions are allowing a respectable 19 points per game and, despite significant losses on the defensive side of things, bring a tough secondary that could match Ohio State’s deep receiver depth.

Highlighting Diaz’s defense, as Josh Dooley covered Wednesday, Penn State brings two of the top defensive backs in the country in its secondary. Two of the reasons Stroud struggled against the Nittany Lions last season are senior safety Ji’Ayir Brown and junior cornerback Joey Porter Jr. Brown leads the team in tackles with 41 on the season and picks with three. Porter, meanwhile, has broken up 11 passes so far this season, which is good for second in the conference.

Unfortunately for the Nittany Lions, their defensive prowess has not translated to the run game. In particular, Penn State failed to stop the run against Michigan, giving up 418 yards and four touchdowns on the ground. Even a dinged-up Ohio State running back room should be able to move the ball effectively against this defense.


Rocky Horror Kicking Show

Things have not been going smoothly from a place kicking perspective for the Nittany Lions in 2022. Penn State has missed two extra points and three field goals so far this season on the leg of senior kicker Jake Pinegar. Pinegar, along with the freshmen kickers assisting with kickoff duties, has also struggled to kick the ball out of the endzone, which isn’t great for assuring favorable field position for Penn State’s defense.

Thus far, those misses haven’t had any far-reaching implications (Penn State’s loss to Michigan had a lot of other issues beyond kicking), but they’ll certainly be a factor in closer games moving forward—kind of like the ones Ohio State and Penn State have been used to playing in recent seasons.


Amor-conda

So this is a fun story. Penn State senior punter Barney Amor might not hail from Australia like many other punters in the Big Ten, but he does come from the Netherlands and his parents live in Switzerland. He walked on to Penn State this fall after spending a season punting for Colgate. Oh and, like his quarterback, Amor is a sixth-year super senior. He’s also working on his third degree.

On the field, 15 of Amor’s 30 punts have been downed inside the 20-yard line. Even more impressive, 12 of those dropped inside the 10. Somehow, even with that narrow window, he’s had just one touchback.

A punter with that sort of accuracy is definitely an asset for the Nittany Lions, but the Ohio State offense hasn’t shied away from a long field so far this season.


Another slasher movie

For some, spending three hours watching a monster slaughter everyone who gets in their path is entertainment reserved for Halloween. For Ohio State fans, it’s what we’ve seen every Saturday this season.

Ohio State is winning its game by an average of 35 points. Yes, that is best in the Big Ten and FBS. That margin, of course, is rooted in an outstanding offense that is in the top five of most major offensive statistical categories nationally, but it’s also a credit to a defense that has also managed to leap into national recognition by holding even offensively competent opponents in check.

The Buckeyes certainly didn’t hold back on Iowa last week, which leads us to…


Children of the Corn

America needs farmers, so maybe Ohio State shouldn’t have dismantled Iowa so thoroughly last week. And no, this was not one of the aforementioned competent offenses.

But alas, while we might not have learned much about the Buckeyes’ defense against the worst offense it has faced all season, we saw the offense demonstrate some resiliency in the face of a talented Hawkeye defense, as well as some areas Ohio State can improve upon before its next big test which just so happens to be this weekend.

In Ohio State’s 54-10 win over the Hawkeyes, the outstanding Iowa defense kept the offense largely in check in the first half, most notably holding the touchdown-oriented Buckeyes to field goals in possessions started in Iowa territory. One of the other surprises was Iowa keeping Ohio State to 3-of-13 on third-down conversion attempts. Heading into last week, the offense was converting 58% of its third-down attempts.


C.J. the Sequel

While it’s hard to say with a straight face that 47 offensive points is struggling, Ohio State’s Heisman-candidate quarterback will be looking for redemption Saturday from a stifling performance against Iowa’s top-rated defense (which actually looked statistically very similar to Clifford’s POY performance against Minnesota — four touchdowns, one pick, 286 yards).

He’ll also want a comeback from last year’s performance against Penn State which left something to be desired. Stroud threw for 305 yards but just a single touchdown. It’ll be a tall order since, as mentioned, he’ll be going against a pair of the top defensive backs in the nation.

At this point, we also must take a moment to credit the offensive line. Stroud has benefited from phenomenal protection and has been sacked a mere five times this season. That mark is good for fifth in the FBS.


Franken-receiver

Sorry, one more Frankenstein reference. That’s because if Frankenstein’s monster were found on Ohio State’s roster, it would be receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. First of all, he’s enormous, standing at 6-foot-4, 205-pounds. And yet, he has the grace of a ballerina, able to tip-toe the sidelines and make mind-bending adjustments as he separates from defenders to make catches. Oh, and he’s fast.

The total package receiver leads the team in receiving touchdowns (10) and is second in receiving yards (598) behind Emeka Egbuka. He’s second in the FBS in receiving touchdowns behind Tennessee’s Jalin Hyatt.

Harrison had seven catches for 62 yards and a touchdown against Iowa. He’ll have a chance to go toe-to-toe with another competent defensive secondary Saturday.

Meanwhile, Jaxon Smith-Njigba made it back for a hot second against Iowa before being sidelined once again after head coach Ryan Day said he reached his snap limit. It looks like he’ll once again be counting plays this week versus Penn State as he makes his way back from a hamstring injury suffered in the first half of the Buckeyes’ season opener against Notre Dame.


Angry Red (Zone) Planet

And then there was one. Ohio State remains the only FBS team perfect in the red zone. Of 36 red zone possessions, the Buckeyes have scored 17 passing touchdowns, 14 rushing touchdowns and made five field goals.

As previously mentioned, the offense faced a stingy defense last week against Iowa. It was really the first time Ohio State struggled to get to the end zone for six, settling for field goals in the first half.

Penn State has proven capable of keeping opponents out of the end zone. The Nittany Lions are tied for No. 21 in the FBS in red zone defense, allowing scores on 76% of opponent possessions. Of 19 scores, Penn State gave up 10 touchdowns and nine field goals.


Invasion of the Ball Snatchers

While it’s hard to say what we learned from the Buckeyes’ defense playing against a drained offense last week, one stat stands out: Ohio State forced six turnovers against Iowa’s offense, including one interception from linebacker Tommy Eichenberg that he returned for a touchdown.

Six turnovers, as one might imagine, is a lot for a single game, and is reflective of a defense that’s been able to keep offenses in check. In terms of the metrics that matter, Jim Knowles’ defense has risen to No. 2 in the nation in total defense, allowing just 240 offensive yards per game. It is also No. 5 in scoring defense, giving up under 15 points per game.


…And the Body Snatchers

Let’s talk about sacks, baby, because turnovers aren’t the only big plays this Ohio State defense has become accustomed to. The Buckeyes’ defense is averaging just under three sacks per game. They totaled five against Iowa.

Those sacks have proven important in ending drives, which this defense has been exceptional at. In particular, the defense has been phenomenal on third down, allowing opposing offenses to convert a mere 25% of the time (good for second in the FBS). Penn State’s offense, meanwhile, is No. 99 in the FBS in third-down conversions, converting just 35% of the time. The odds, for this matchup at least, would seem to be in Ohio State’s favor.


No-ah-nother scary movie

The hero of the Iowa game (yes, again, four field goals plus six extra points), Ohio State place kicker Noah Ruggles earned Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week honors for his performance against the Hawkeyes. When it comes to place kicking, despite a slow start for Ruggles in 2021, Ohio State certainly seems to have an edge over this weekend’s opponent.

Hopefully we will not need to call our kicker in such dramatic fashion this year against Penn State: Ruggles also had four field goals that proved to be the difference in the game in 2021 against the Nittany Lions.


Summary

What could be a better Halloween prequel than a thriller between two of the best teams in the Big Ten? Will it turn into an all-out slasher film like we’ve seen from Ohio State lately? Or will the teams keep us in suspense until the clock ticks to zeroes?

The Buckeyes are 15.5-point favorites on the road and have demonstrated skill at beating the spread and not letting up against opposing offenses. Their defense, which had been so anemic all last season, seems to have gotten its blood meal and is once again the fearsome, clever and precise vampire we know and love.

Penn State, though, brings a veteran quarterback, a much-improved running game and a defensive secondary that might not stop offenses in their tracks, but can slow them down a lot. And the Nittany Lions are coached by one of the few folks in the country who’s been able to keep things scary with Ohio State.

Ohio State will look to avoid a shop of horrors on the road—from zombie quarterbacks to Frank(lin)stein coaches and more. However, don’t expect Penn State to roll over in its grave so easily. The Nittany Lions will be fighting to avoid mysteriously disappearing from the College Football Playoff discussion.

LGHL Prediction: Ohio State 38, Penn State 18

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Why is this News? All the articles and tweets Buckeye fans need for October 28, 2022
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch via Imagn Content Services, LLC

All the Buckeye news thats fit to re-print.

Look, we get it. Your days are busy and you don’t have time to read all of the stories and tweets from the three dozen websites dedicated to covering Ohio State athletics, or the 237 Buckeye beat writers churning out hot takes and #content on a daily basis. But that’s ok, that’s what your friends at Land-Grant Holy Land are here for.

Monday through Friday, we’ll be collecting all of the articles, tweets, features, interviews, videos, podcasts, memes, photos, and whatever else we stumble across on the interwebz and putting them in our daily “Why is this News?” article. That way, you’ll have a one-stop shop for all of the most important Buckeye news, jokes, and analysis.

You’re welcome!

For your Earholes...


Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio

Ask LGHL


Introducing ‘Ask LGHL,’ asking and answering questions throughout the football season
Matt Tamanini, Land-Grant Holy Land

On the Gridiron


Watch Ryan Day’s Thursday Radio Show:


(Thurs)Day: ‘You want to know where Penn State is on the schedule’ | No injury updates
Dave Biddle, Bucknuts

Ryan Day Radio Show: Ryan Day Expects “A Good Environment” in Happy Valley, Says Ohio State Will Need “Fast Start” Against Penn State on Saturday
Chase Brown and Griffin Strom, Eleven Warriors

Ryan Day has no update on status of Buckeyes WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba
Joey Kaufman, The Columbus Dispatch

Let’s, as they say, F-ing Go!


Film Preview: Penn State’s offense runs through Sean Clifford, Manny Diaz’s new look defensively
Chris Renne, Land-Grant Holy Land

Breaking down where Penn State may have edge, present problems for Buckeyes
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row

C.J. Stroud, Ohio State Offense Face Talented Penn State Secondary Led by “Best DB in College Football: Joey Porter Jr.
Griffin Strom, Eleven Warriors

James Franklin Previews Battle Between Penn State Secondary, Ohio State’s Receivers
Braden Moles, Buckeye Sports Bulletin

Buckeyes receivers facing toughest test yet against talented Penn State secondary
Tim May, Lettermen Row

Penn State to ‘Stripe Out’ Beaver Stadium vs. Ohio State
Colin Gay, The Columbus Dispatch

Ohio State vs. Penn State game preview and prediction (paywall)
Mark Cooper, The Athletic

#DevelopedHere


Checking in on the 2022 Buckeye freshmen
David M Wheeler, Land-Grant Holy Land

How ‘scarred’ linebackers learned from past to elevate Buckeyes revamped defense (paywall)
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row

What injury setback means for Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Buckeyes (paywall)
Austin Ward, Dotting the Eyes

Lathan Ransom Feeling “Way More Comfortable” in New Role as He Emerges as One of College Football’s Best Safeties
Dan Hope, Eleven Warriors

Mitch Rossi’s fullback role will be pivotal for Ohio State down the stretch (paywall)
Bill Landis, Dotting the Eyes

MC&J: Tennessee and TCU look to stay undefeated as October comes to a close
Brett Ludwiczak, Land-Grant Holy Land

On the Hardwood


Big Ten men’s basketball team previews: Michigan State Spartans
Justin Golba, Land-Grant Holy Land

Listen to the latest episode of our men’s basketball podcast:

Outside the Shoe and Schott


Women’s Soccer: Seven Buckeyes Earn All-Big Ten Accolades
Ohio State Athletics

Women’s Hockey: Jaques Advances to Voting Round of the AAU James A. Sullivan Award
Ohio State Athletics

And now for something completely different...


Between this and Andre the Giant, the amount of people who think these are real will never not be funny:


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Buck Off Podcast: Penn State report, the story of Sean Clifford, and Ryan Day talking ball
Chris Renne via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images

The guys are back to talk the rivalry between Ohio State and Penn State, and how Sean Clifford as a player defines the last six years.

Listen to the episode and subscribe:

Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio


On today’s episode of “Buck Off with Christopher Renne,” I’m joined by Jordan Williams. We take a look at Ohio State and get into a discussion about James Franklin’s soft approach to coaching Penn State.

To get the show started, the guys open with the always burning question – is Penn State a rival of Ohio State? They discuss why the term rival is held too sacredly by the Ohio State fan base and why Penn State is in fact a rival of Ohio State

After that, the duo get into their Penn State report, and the conversation starts with Sean Clifford. Talking about his improvement as a quarterback, and how the Nittany Lions always come up short because their coach and quarterback. Then the guys get into the defensive side of the ball and discuss what Manny Diaz brings to the table.

Moving on from that, Chris and Jordan then talk about a question from the Twitter-verse asking which Penn State players would start at Ohio State? They go down a list of some of Penn State’s best players and discuss if they would start for the Buckeyes.

As the show moves forward, they then get into Ryan Day’s comments heading into the game. They also discuss Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s injury situation and the new schedule.

To close out the show, the guys give their reasons Ohio State will win and score predictions.


Connect with the Show:
Twitter: @BuckOffPod

Connect with Chris Renne:
Twitter: @ChrisRenneCFB

Connect with Jordan Williams
Twitter: @JordanW330

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Ohio State looks to be in good position for two of their top targets in 2023, 2024
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Brooke LaValley / USA TODAY NETWORK

Multiple predictions submitted for the Buckeyes to land a pair of big names.

Now into the back half of the season, Ohio State plays game eight tomorrow of the regular season campaign, and while that means some of these contests start to mean a little more, that also means Signing Day is quickly approaching. Only just over a month separates the Buckeyes from the December signing period, and the staff will hope to sign the majority if not all of their current commits during that period.

That said, there’s still a few spots up for grabs. With the hope of certain names attached to those spots, the work isn’t over yet for this current 2023 cycle. The regular season is first and foremost the top priority for this staff, but as we’ve seen over and over, recruiting rarely takes a back seat to anything in Columbus.

Buckeyes continue to trend for top receiver


In yesterday’s edition of State Secrets, 2024 receiver Jeremiah Smith was one of the main topics of discussion. After news came out on Wednesday that Smith would not be visiting Michigan this weekend as originally planned, the Buckeyes love to see their top target at the receiver position staying away from their biggest rival. Fast forward a bit, and Smith is once again seeing his name in the headlines in regards to Ohio State-related news. The fortunate aspect for the Buckeyes, the news continues to be trending in a positive direction.

Similar to his Michigan visit cancellation theme, on Thursday On3 insider EJ Holland, who covers the Wolverines, put his prediction in for Smith’s commitment to end in favor of Ohio State. Maybe the canceled visit has something to do with this prediction or maybe it’s just coincidence, but the Buckeyes continue to be the clear favorite for the nation’s top receiver in the 2024 class.

The No. 2 player nationally per the 247Sports Composite, Smith’s commitment isn’t expected to come in the coming days or possibly even weeks, but as momentum continues to grow in favor of the Buckeyes, it’s not out of the question that this recruitment could in fact end sooner than expected, with Ohio State winning out. With Brian Hartline doing the heavy lifting here for his position group, you have to like his chances of being able to add yet another incredible player to his room as he has done so many times already.

Wilson momentum growing


Ohio State also saw their name picked in regard to another On3 recruiting prediction yesterday, but this time for a top 2023 target. Switching sides of the ball and looking at the defensive line, the Buckeyes are focusing on that spot more than any other as they try and close out their 2023 class, with more than just one big time player addition. In fact, the coaching staff is hoping for at least two elite additions to a group who needs to reload their depth. Fortunately, they sit in a great spot for more than just one of their top targets.

This latest update is for Damon Wilson, who was predicted by Ohio State insider Matt Parker to end up with the Buckeyes when he commits to the school of his choice. The 6-foot-4, 230 pound edge rusher has been most closely linked to both Ohio State and Georgia as his recruitment starts to wind down, and while both schools are in a solid spot, it’s the Buckeyes who seem to have the inside track for winning this one in the end.

The No. 19 player nationally per the 247Sports Composite, Wilson is also the second best player at his position and the fifth-ranked player in Florida for 2023. Nothing is set in stone yet, but if momentum continues to trend towards Ohio State, it’s a pretty safe assumption that the Buckeyes, thanks to position coach Larry Johnson, are well on their way to adding another top edge rusher to a defensive line that continues to churn out NFL caliber players.

Quick Hits

• Maybe one of the players who goes a bit under the radar in Ohio State’s 2023 class, current tight end commit Jelani Thurman doesn’t always get talked about as much as he should. The sole tight end in the class for the Buckeyes, Thurman is the No. 105 player nationally and the fourth best tight-end in the class according to the 247Sports Composite.

A player who can do it all, Thurman will be welcomed addition to a tight end room that definitely needs to continue adding depth. Fortunately, his ball-catching skills are already off the charts, and he’s shown that time and time again. To see just a glimpse at what Ohio State is getting in Jelani, take a look below.


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DALLAS GANT, LB, TOLEDO

Toledo was the first school to offer Dallas Gant back in 2015. Then, as Rockets head coach Jason Candle puts it, Gant “outgrew us a little bit.” Gant developed into a national recruit in the 2018 class. He ranked as the No. 59 overall player in the Top247 that cycle and ultimately picked Ohio State.

Yet, Gant never caught on in Columbus. He redshirted in 2018, played a career-high 120 snaps as a redshirt freshman and then saw his snap share decrease the next two seasons. Ultimately, he entered the portal as a fifth-year senior with little film and a lot to prove. Those players, formerly elite prospects with limited career snaps, can disappear in the transfer portal.

But, Toledo had an advantage when it came to evaluating Gant. The coaching staff had known Gant for seven years.
“We benefited from knowing him as a human being and as a young man growing up in Toledo,” Candle said. “You take the video you can get, compare it to what you have on the roster and see if it matches.”

Gant was a perfect fit.

He’s been a critical piece for the Rockets. Gant leads the team with 72 total tackles to go along with 4.5 tackles for loss, 4 passes defended and a forced fumble. He’s also the fourth-highest graded linebacker in the MAC, per PFF College. He’s getting better, too. Gant never saw extended snaps in his Buckeye career. Candle said Toledo's foundation is its developmental process and Gant’s first dose of sustained reps are helping him improve week by week.

Ultimately, Toledo landed Gant — a talent it wouldn’t usually be able to sign out of high school — because both parties were willing to give the other a second chance.

“All of us go through times when a particular prospect doesn’t pick your school,” Candle said. “You’re going to do it the right way, still treat people with respect and if it doesn’t go your way, you’re going to finish it out the right way. In this case on the backend when he wants to transfer, coming back home becomes an option once again because you did it the right way the first time.”

Beano Cook said:

The FBS record is 3 safeties in one game. The first time was in 1996, when Arizona State beat two-time defending national champion Nebraska 19-0, ending the Huskers 26 game winning streak. That season didn't end on such a high note for the Sun Devils, blowing an unbeaten season and a shot at the title by losing the Rose Bowl.

I'm guessing this group knows who won that Rose Bowl.

Click to expand...

I think we do.

But Arizona State shutting out Nebraska should have been foreseen. They only gave up 77 to the Huskers in Lincoln the previous season.

Play Like a Girl Podcast: We’ve always believed in you, Justin Fields
Meredith Hein via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images

Plus, how Team Cat and Team Dog fared last week and why refs are people, too.

On LGHL’s Play Like a Girl podcast, Megan and Meredith talk everything from Ohio State sports to advocacy for women in sports and all the happenings in between.

Check out the podcast below, and make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts:


Happy Halloween (almost) and welcome back to the Play Like a Girl podcast! This week, Megan and Meredith talk exciting happenings from the NFL, including Justin Fields finally getting the win he deserves, Bailey Zappe (and not for the first time on the show) and how refs are people, too—at least if the story they told is true and they weren’t actually trying to get Mike Evans’ autograph.

On the collegiate side of things, the pair review how Team Cat did vs. Team Dog this week and discuss what we learned about Ohio State’s offense last week against one of the nation’s top defenses in Iowa.

Check out the full pod for more.


Contact Megan Husslein
Twitter: @meganhusslein

Contact Meredith Hein
Twitter: @MeredithHein

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MC&J: Tennessee and TCU look to stay undefeated as October comes to a close
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Bryan Lynn/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Volunteers host Kentucky before next week’s showdown with Georgia, while the Horned Frogs travel to West Virginia.

Last week ATS: 5-7 (2-3 B1G, 3-4 National)

Season ATS: 57-67-3 (28-34-1 B1G, 29-32-2 National)

Did I think that at this point of the season I’d be 10 games under .500? Not at all. Thankfully there is still more than a month left before the regular season ends and bowl matchups are announced. As bad as the record is right now, one big week could get us close to even. It has happened before, so hopefully this week is more treat than trick.

National games:


(All lines courtesy of Draftkings Sportsbook.)

No. 7 TCU (-7.5) v. West Virginia - 12:00 p.m. - ESPN

I understand why TCU is only a 7.5-point favorite in this game. The Horned Frogs are coming off a stretch where their last four games have come against teams that were ranked at the time. The last two weeks have seen TCU fall behind their opponents by double-digits in the first half, only to stage comebacks in the second half to stay undefeated.

Taking a ranked team hitting the road to take on an unranked foe is always a cause for concern. Luckily for TCU it seems like West Virginia is a team in crisis. The Mountaineers are coming off a 48-10 loss at Texas Tech, and it feels like head coach Neal Brown is on the hot seat. It also is concerning for West Virginia that leading rusher Tony Mathis Jr. won’t play in this game.

Maybe West Virginia quarterback J.T. Daniels, who is at his 23rd college, can put up a huge effort to lead the Mountaineers to an upset. I’m not counting on it, though. This TCU team looks like it is going to be a player in the College Football Playoff race. If the Horned Frogs lose, I feel like it’ll be when they have to go to Texas or Baylor. West Virginia is just too much of a mess right now for me to trust.

TCU 45, West Virginia 28


Notre Dame v. No. 16 Syracuse (-2.5) - 12:00 p.m. - ABC

Notre Dame started the season with losses to Ohio State and Marshall. Marcus Freeman’s team has at least pointed things in the right direction with four wins in their last five games. After Tyler Buchner was ruled out for the rest of the season due to injury following the loss to Marshall, Drew Pyne has thrown for 1,077 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Syracuse had Clemson on the ropes last week, but the Orange couldn’t pull off the upset of the Tigers. The result might have been different if running back Sean Tucker saw more than five carries in the game. There’s absolutely no reason quarterback Garrett Shrader should finish the game with 21 carries and one of the best running backs in the country only carries the football five times.

Syracuse might have a bit of a hangover this week after expending so much energy trying to pull the upset of Clemson. I’m also not sure of where the team’s head is at after Tucker was used sparingly in that game. Meanwhile, Notre Dame has recovered after a tough start to the season. The Fighting Irish show why their defense was considered one of the best in the country heading into the season.

Notre Dame 24, Syracuse 17


No. 9 Oklahoma State v. No. 22 Kansas State (-1.5) - 3:30 p.m. - FOX

Some stretches in the Big 12 are brutal. Oklahoma State has taken on TCU and Texas the last two weeks, losing in double overtime to the Horned Frogs before beating Texas in Stillwater last week. Spencer Sanders put forth a huge effort last week, throwing for 391 yards and two touchdowns last week against the Longhorns.

Much like the Cowboys two weeks ago, Kansas State looked like they were going to hand TCU their first loss of the season. Unfortunately for the Wildcats, the Horned Frogs made adjustments in the second half and rebounded to earn the victory. Kansas State comes into this game with some injury concerns, as quarterback Adrian Martinez and running back Deuce Vaughn are banged up.

There have been a number of occasions where I have underestimated Kansas State in the past and the Wildcats have made me pay for it. I’m sure this will end up being another of those times, but I just can’t trust K-State right now with the number of key players that are injured coming into this game. Oklahoma State doesn’t have a sound defense, I’m just not convinced the Wildcats have the healthy weapons to take advantage of a defense giving up 450 yards per game.

Oklahoma State 41, Kansas State 31


No. 10 Wake Forest (-3.5) v. Louisville - 3:30 p.m. - ACC Network

Unlike earlier in this article where I went against a ranked team hitting the road to take on an unranked opponent, I do really like Louisville here. The Cardinals have been up-and-down this year, but they look like they are getting their act together, winning three of their last four games. Following a season where he accounted for 39 touchdowns, Malik Cunningham has had a bit of a slow start to the season, with just 14 touchdowns in the six games he has appeared in.

Wake Forest definitely has a potent passing attack with quarterback Sam Hartman and favorite target A.T. Perry. Other than that, what stands out about the Demon Deacons? I’m not coming up with anything. Louisville’s defense is just as good, and Cunningham is more dynamic with his ability to run the football. The Cardinals continue to recover from their slow start to the season with a win over a ranked opponent.

Louisville 34, Wake Forest 27


No. 20 Cincinnati (-1) v. UCF - 3:30 p.m. - ESPN

Cincinnati has been playing with fire lately, with their last three wins coming by 10 points or less. Last week the Bearcats almost blew a 29-14 lead in the fourth quarter, with SMU not being able to convert the two-point conversion to tie the game. Luke Fickell’s team is strong this year, they just aren’t nearly as invincible as last year, which is to be expected after losing so many starters to the NFL.

Heading into last week’s game, UCF looked like they were rolling, with four straight wins by at least 17 points. The winning streak came to an end after the Knights suffered a 34-13 loss to East Carolina. UCF wasn’t able to recover from the three interceptions that John Rhys Plumlee threw in the game. The Ole Miss transfer had been really good before last week, throwing for 11 touchdown passes, and adding another seven scores on the ground.

UCF is going to come into this game angry after getting whooped last week, while Cincinnati might not be as sharp with this being their second road game in a row. The Knights snap Cincinnati’s three-game winning streak in the series in a game that comes down to the wire.

UCF 38, Cincinnati 34


No. 19 Kentucky v. No. 3 Tennessee (-12.5) - 7:00 p.m. - ESPN

Earlier this month, Kentucky looked like a team that was in trouble after losing to Ole Miss and South Carolina. Before getting last weekend off, the Wildcats were able to stop the bleeding with a win over Mississippi State in Lexington. After sitting out the loss to the Gamecocks, Will Levis returned against the Bulldogs. The big star in the win two weeks ago was running back Chris Rodriguez Jr., who rushed for 197 yards and two scores. Rodriguez has now ran for 395 yards and three scores after missing the first four games of the season due to suspension.

After the emotional win over Alabama, the Volunteers took on college football powerhouse UT-Martin last week. Tennessee’s offense is rivaling Ohio State’s this year, averaging 50 points per game and averaging over 500 yards per game. Hendon Hooker is in the mix to win the Heisman Trophy, with the Tennessee quarterback looking like C.J. Stroud’s strongest competition for the award.

While Tennessee certainly isn’t looking past Kentucky in this game, I just wondering how much they are looking ahead to a showdown with Georgia next week. I don’t think the Volunteers lose this game, but Kentucky is going to put up a fight. Kentucky has a great running game, which could allow them to keep the football out of Tennessee’s hands. This game feels like it is going to be decided by 7-10 points.

Tennessee 31, Kentucky 24


No. 15 Ole Miss (-2.5) v. Texas A&M - 7:30 p.m. - SEC Network

Both these teams come into this game not playing their best football. Last week, Ole Miss was trucked by LSU in Baton Rouge 45-20, while Texas A&M has dropped three straight games. The latest of those losses for the Aggies came last week at South Carolina. Even though Texas A&M is the laughingstock of college football, there is a little reason for optimism since they return to College Station to play at Kyle Field for the first time in over a month.

Ole Miss can certainly run the football. Freshman running back Quinshon Judkins has been phenomenal this year, rushing for 831 yards and 12 scores so far. The Rebels have needed a lot from Judkins and the running game, since Jaxson Dart is an inconsistent quarterback. Things won’t get any easier for Dart through the air, since he is taking on a Texas A&M pass defense that is only allowing 175 yards per game.

Ole Miss is not only the better team, they are definitely better coached. Having said that, I still like Texas A&M in this game. The Aggies will probably go on and win the rest of their games and Jimbo Fisher will puff his chest out heading into next season, leading to Texas A&M being ranked way too high.

Texas A&M 31, Ole Miss 27

Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.

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Big Ten men’s basketball team previews: Michigan State Spartans
justingolba via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Kirthmon F. Dozier / USA TODAY NETWORK

Can Tom Izzo get his team back to its first Sweet 16 since 2018-19?

Team: Michigan State Spartans
Coach: Tom Izzo (28th season)
2021-22 record: 23-13 (11-9)
Season finish: NCAA Tournament round of 32

Players returning: A.J. Hoggard, Tyson Walker, Jaden Akins, Malik Hall, Joey Hauser, Mady Sissoko, Pierre Brooks

Players departed: Julius Marble II (Texas A&M), Max Christie, Marcus Bingham Jr., Gabe Brown

Key additions: Jaxon Kohler, Tre Holloman, Carson Cooper

Outlook


This Spartan team returns a lot of talent, but they will need someone to step up into a more prominent role. Most people are looking towards A.J. Hoggard and Malik Hall to fill that void. Hoggard averaged 7.0 points and 4.8 assists per game last season, and Hall averaged 8.9 points and 4.8 rebounds.

The Spartans lost Max Christie to the NBA, Julius Marble to Texas A&M and Gabe Brown and Marcus Bingham to graduation. Brown, Bingham, and Christie were the top three scorers on the team last season, and Brown was the only Spartan to average double figures, so the production heading out of East Lansing is not small. Malik Hall and the three guards of A.J. Hoggard, Tyson Walker and Jaden Akins have to all take jumps, as their minute sin the rotation are going to increase.

Pierre Brooks was the 2021 Mr. Basketball in the state of Michigan, and he will have a larger role in his sophomore season. The Spartans’ freshman class of Jaxon Kohler, Tre Holloman and Carson Cooper will all likely play a role for the Spartans as well. Mady Sissoko will likely step into the starting center role, and will have to help replace some of the lost rebounding with the departures of Bingham and Brown.

X Factor


A.J. Hoggard. Hoggard is a talented guard that should be expected to take a large jump. Spartan coach Tom Izzo knows exactly how important his main ball handler will be in his offense next season.

“At that position, if the guards are playing well, your team has a better chance of playing well,” Izzo said at Spartan media day. “The center’s important, but probably not going to determine your team as much. [...] A.J. Hoggard is a very important part for this team right now, but there has to be some changes. He knows it, I know it. I’ve got to give a little, he’s got to give a lot, because I have history on my side.”

“Things started to go a little more smoothly for me,” Hoggard said of the end of last season. “And just me carrying it this year and continuing to grow on it.”

Hoggard also knows that putting on the Spartan uniform means something and he wants to live up to the tradition.

“Just being a part of his lineage is something special. Not everyone gets to do it, so just being a part of his lineage and just learning from him every day and just learning how to be a better leader from him every day is just going to take me a long way.”

All of his shooting splits will need to improve, in particular his three-point percentage (21 percent) and his free throw percentage (63 percent), but he has all the intangibles to be an all-conference player.

Prediction


I am certainly not going to sit here and predict that Tom Izzo will miss the NCAA Tournament. He has had worse teams than this current one that went to the big dance, and this one will get to the latter weeks in March.

However, after that, it does become a question mark. They have a solid trio of guards in the backcourt in Hoggard, Tyson Walker and Jaden Akins, and Malik Hall and Joey Hauser make up an interesting frontcourt. They will need their freshmen and guys who played less than 10 minutes per game last season to step into productive roles and become reliable rotational players. If they get that, they are a top five team in the conference. And you can never count out Izzo in March.

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Checking in on the 2022 Buckeye freshmen
David M Wheeler via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Freshman running back Dallan Hayden breaks through a hole against Michigan State. | Photo by Adam Ruff/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Are they seeing as much playing time as last year’s class? Are they as good?

Last year several Ohio State freshmen made really big impacts. A couple of them earned starting positions very early in the year, and others flashed not only potential, but genuine greatness when they were on the field. Obviously, the two that stand out most were running back TreVeyon Henderson and cornerback Denzel Burke. Both had outstanding years, and Henderson’s was record-breaking.

Henderson, who played in all 13 Buckeye games, became a starter in the Tulsa game and drew national attention when his 23 carries netted 270 rushing yards and three touchdowns. He would finish the season with 1,248 yards on 183 carries (6.8 yards/carry average) and 15 rushing TDs. He also caught 27 passes for 312 yards and another four touchdowns (Why aren’t the Buckeyes passing to him this year?). He broke the OSU record for touchdowns in a season by a freshman.

Burke wasn’t nearly as heralded coming out of high school as was the five-star Henderson, but he became a starter at cornerback quickly and enjoyed a season that would produce predictions of All-America status this year. In 2021, Burke was eighth on the team in total tackles with 35 and had 12 pass breakups with an interception.

Marvin Harrison Jr., Emeka Egbuka, and Tyleik Williams also made names for themselves as first-year Buckeyes. Harrison Jr. didn’t really shine until the Rose Bowl game against Utah. Then, he really shone – to the tune of three touchdown receptions. That game was just a showcase for the kind of performances that he’s putting in this year, game after game.

Egbuka didn’t have the kind of breakout that Harrison enjoyed on New Year’s Day, but he showed his speed on several big plays and on kickoff returns that we kept expecting him to break. Egbuka finished the 2021 season with nine catches for 191 yards. Do the math: that’s a 21.2 yards per reception average!

Then, there’s Tyleik Williams, who seemingly came out of nowhere to become one of my favorite 2021 Buckeyes. While he would start plays in the middle of the OSU defensive line, he usually finished them in the opponents’ backfield. His 6.5 tackles for loss and 5 sacks were second in each category only to Haskell Garrett.

Additionally, J.T. Tuimoloau, Jack Sawyer, Kyle McCord, and Evan Pryor all saw meaningful playing time during the year. It seems to me, after seven games this year — all of them at the very least double-digit wins — that we haven’t seen that much of this year’s freshmen. They’re simply not playing as much and not making the same sort of impact. Why is that? Is it good or bad?

2022 Buckeye freshmen


Ohio State’s 2022 recruiting class had 21 players. So far, all but four of them have seen some playing time. Of the 17 who have played, I believe that cornerback Jyaire Brown is the only one to have started a game, and he was pulled into that starting role because of injuries at an already thin position. I want to take a look at six players in the class and assess their contributions.

Jyaire Brown, CB. I’ll start with Brown since I’ve mentioned him. Although he was pretty far down on the recruiting ladder – 24th at his position and 192 overall — he’s played defense in six of the seven OSU games for a total of 116 snaps. He’s collected six total tackles, two pass deflections, and a forced fumble. With Burke, Cam Brown, and Jordan Hancock all missing games, Jyaire Brown has filled in capably. He’s not getting the acclaim that Burke received last year, but I think that he’s played pretty well. He’s also played (39 snaps) on various special teams, so he sees a fair amount of action.

Caden Curry, Edge. Staying with the defensive side, I look next at Curry, a player who has really stood out. He makes a difference when he’s in the game, even though the Buckeyes are loaded at his position. He’s played in all seven games, accumulating 73 snaps on defense and 78 on special teams. We saw his work on the punt return team this past Saturday when he stopped Iowa’s silly fake punt. Curry is tied for 12th on the team in total tackles with 11; one and a half of them were for a loss. About in the middle of his class in terms of rating, Curry was the No. 123 player overall. Next year, he should see more time as he moves into the regular edge rotation.

Kye Stokes, S. When he was recruited, Stokes was considered an “athlete,” but he’s found a home at safety for the Bucks. I first became aware of him during the spring game, when he was making plays all over the place. Talk about a motor. This season he’s played some defense (74 defensive snaps) in every game but Notre Dame. He’s also frequently on the field during punts and kicks (40 snaps) and has recorded nine total tackles, one of them for a loss, and has forced a fumble. He’s going to be a good one, yet was largely below the recruiting radar at No. 351 overall nationally.

Dallan Hayden, RB. When Pryor was lost for the season, Hayden moved right into the third running back slot. I doubt that he expected that or that he’d see action in every Buckeye game (So much for a red shirt). Although he generally enters the game in mop up time, when everyone is expecting a running play up the middle, he’s still managed to average 4.7 yards on his 54 carries. He has a touchdown and a long run of 45 yards, where he was able to show his speed. He’s got 255 net yards for the year and could easily hit 500 before season’s end.

C.J. Hicks, LB. Hicks, one of two five-star recruits in the 2022 class, was the top-rated player among OSU’s freshmen. This year, he’s played in six games but almost exclusively on special teams. He’s seen 86 snaps and has made five tackles on those plays. Yes, the Bucks have a lot of linebackers. Steele Chambers, Tommy Eichenberg, and Cody Simon have all played really well. And, in the new defensive alignment, there are often only two backers on the field at a time. Still, I would have thought that we’d see more of Hicks.

Sonny Styles, S. Styles reclassified from 2023 to arrive in Columbus a year earlier. He’s the other five-star player in the class. He’s played much more than Hicks. While he’s been in on 97 special teams plays, he’s also been involved in 49 defensive snaps. Styles has six total tackles and one TFL. There’s no question of his talent, but there are a lot of good safeties ahead of him on the Buckeye depth chart.

Bottom line


Well, it’s not just my perception. Freshmen did play more in 2021 and made a larger impact. The question is “why?” Were the players better in 2021? Well, the 2021 class ranked second nationally, the 2022 class fourth. Both are outstanding numbers, and you would think that there might not be that much difference between the two.

While the 2022 class had two five-star players, the 2021 class (after Quinn Ewers reclassified into it) had seven. Ewers is gone, and McCord is biding his time behind C.J. Stroud. The other five, however, are all starting or, in the case of J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, seeing about equal snaps in a rotation. Egbuka and Donovan Jackson didn’t start as freshmen but are well-entrenched in the starting lineup now, as is former four-star recruit Harrison Jr. Mike Hall Jr. and J.K. Johnson, from the 2021 class, also see considerable playing time and occasional starts.

Are these 2021 players simply better than this year’s group? Maybe so. But to be fair, we should wait until next year to make that call since many of them didn’t really stand out until their second year.

Or is the team better this year, with more returning players? Face it, Ohio State is much more experienced (at nearly every position) and deeper this year than last. It’s one of the primary reasons that the team is superior. That experience and depth make it much harder for guys like Hicks or Curry to crack the lineup. Hayden and Jyaire Brown have gotten playing time through injury.

On the other hand, that freshman class last year was special, and they’re really showing their stuff now. Let’s hope that, when midseason next year rolls around, we’ll be saying the same things about the 2022 class.

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Film Preview: Penn State’s offense runs through Sean Clifford, Manny Diaz’s new look defensively
Chris Renne via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images

Ohio State will be facing a familiar foe offensively against Penn State, but the new-look defense may provide some challenges for the Buckeyes.

The James Franklin-led Penn State Nittany Lions are hosting the Ohio State Buckeyes this weekend. They are still led by Sean Clifford at quarterback, but the Nittany Lions are the most talented roster Ohio State has played to date. For all of his downfalls, Franklin has built a roster that has been able to challenge the Buckeyes regularly.

Penn State has consistently given the Buckeyes some of their toughest matchups, with the last six meetings all being decided by 11-points or less. Franklin has tried to modernize his offense with the hiring of Mike Yurcich, but has been unable to field a consistent run game. This has led to a reliance on quarterback Sean Clifford, which surmises to say that the results have been inconsistent.

On defense, Penn State was tasked with replacing the long-tenured defensive coordinator Brent Pry. Pry was a significant part in the success Penn State has had over recent years in slowing down the Buckeyes. Now, former Miami head coach Manny Diaz has brought his high pressure defense to State College. The difference in philosophy has led to mixed results, and Diaz will need to have his team organized if they want to have any chance of slowing down Ohio State.

Offense


The Penn State offense starts and stops with how Clifford plays. His inconsistencies as a passer have defined the last four years of the Penn State football program, and will once again take center stage against the Buckeyes in Happy Valley.

Prior to Penn State’s matchup against Michigan, the Nittany Lion offense had found some balance behind their running backs. Freshman Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen came on to the scene early in the year as effective running backs, but as of late the run game has not risen to the levels many around Penn State foresaw. Ohio State has been successful in stopping the run this year, so once again this matchup will come down to Clifford’s quarterback play.

Clifford as a passer

Mike Yurcich knows his quarterback has limitations as a passer, and this has led to a lot of throws across the middle of the field. Penn State utilizes shallow crossers, dig routes, and post routes more than most teams. Last season, Penn State found success attacking the middle of Ohio State’s defense, and this will be the case once again.

In the first play, Penn State is in a 3rd-and-9 situation against Minnesota. They split out their tight end into the slot, and Minnesota has him uncovered with the safety being used as a blitzer. This gives the tight end a free run up the seam, and once he clears the linebackers, Clifford delivers a strike. His comfortability is high on these throws, and this is a common place of attack for Penn State’s offense.


Penn State’s offense is not scared to take shots down field, and Clifford does have the arm strength to push the ball outside the numbers. The last two seasons Penn State hasn’t found success passing downfield against the Buckeyes with Jahan Dotson on the roster. The issue is Clifford is inconsistent at best throwing the ball deep.

Penn State has talented wide receivers, but they are not utilized consistency because of the level of Clifford’s play. In the next clip we see the athleticism and speed Penn State has at the receiver position. They are lined in a “Doubles - Stack” formation, meaning one receiver is on top of the other. This will be a challenge for Ohio State’s safeties and corners when it comes to communication pre-snap about which receiver to take. Penn State’s receiver gets separation, and Clifford drops the ball outside.

With the struggles of the cornerbacks for Ohio State this season, expect Penn State to try to take some shots early.


Now, for every throw Clifford makes like the one in the previous example, there is one like the play below. Penn State is in a critical 4th-and-6 situation down seven points in the second half against Michigan. Clifford has a receiver open at the first down marker, but he throws the corner route, which also breaks open. The coverage is close enough to impact the receiver, but the ball is overthrown. In the early parts of the game, Clifford has been sharp most of his career, but once the game matters the Sean Clifford below is the one that usually shows up.


QB Run Game

Now, Ohio State fans might get salty at the amount Clifford gets involved in the running game, and I can already hear the echoes of people saying, “This is why Stroud needs to pull the ball every once in a while.”

Clifford needs to add this element to the game because his throwing ability is inconsistent. This added dynamic makes defensive coordinators have to always account for Clifford as a runner. In the play below, Penn State runs a read option off of their inside zone concept. Michigan overcommits their defenders to stopping the running back, and Clifford is athletic enough to rip off a big gain on the ground.

If Ohio State doesn’t remain disciplined in reading their keys and maintaining their responsibilities in run fit, Penn State can use Clifford’s legs to hurt them.


Run game behind running backs

Earlier in the season, freshman running back Nick Singleton had a few huge performances. Since entering conference play, the run game has not been nearly as dynamic, averaging 4.8 yards in the last two games with a season-low 2.9 yards per carry against Michigan.

When the Penn State run game is having success, their zone run schemes are reliant on the offensive line reaching the second level. This is a common indicator of success for many run games.

In the first play, Penn State’s tight end is lined up as an H-Back. The tight end lead blocks through the hole and gets the linebacker at the second level. This lead block opens up a running lane, leading to a nice gain. The offensive line does a great job of getting to their spots and staying on their responsibilities in this play as well.


When the run game is not going well, the theme is similar to Ohio State’s issues – the offensive line gives up interior penetration to the defensive line. Penn State is trying to use their Outside Zone concept to get the first in a 3rd-and-5 situation. Minnesota’s defensive line is able to eat up the double teams, creating congestion in the backfield. This allows the linebacker to flow aggressively, and with the defensive line eating up blockers, the linebacker is able to make the play in the backfield.

Defense


New defensive coordinator Manny Diaz has brought in an entirely new identity. The more reserved and responsibility-oriented Brent Pry was able to limit Ohio State offensively by owning gaps and not giving up big plays. Diaz is the opposite. He brings a lot of pressure in any situation and will gamble to try to make big plays defensively.

Diaz had success against overmatched opponents, like Auburn and Minnesota with their back up quarterback. Michigan is more talented than both of those teams, and they took advantage of the aggressive philosophy of Diaz. By winning at the line of scrimmage, the Wolverines were able to run the ball at will. This will be a huge test for the Buckeyes, because if they can run the ball effectively, that sets up their play-action pass which can really do some damage if Penn State chooses to bring pressure.

Blitzing

Getting into the pressure that Penn State likes to bring, the Nittany Lions defense is willing to blitz any position. They bring safeties, corners, and linebackers on any down and distance, and this creates opportunities for the offense. If Stroud can identify where blitzes are coming from early, this will allow him to adjust protections to attack the areas the blitzers leave vacant.

In the first play, Penn State is lined up straight alignment wise and in Cover-1. Diaz uses a 4-2-5 similarly to Ohio State and Jim Knowles, so this is a look the Ohio State offense has seen a lot. Penn State’s boundary safety is aligned as a player just outside the box and he shows he is blitzing before the snap of the ball. Penn State also runs a “twist” with the interior defensive linemen. The blitz is picked up by Michigan and so is the twist, but this is exactly the type of blitzing action Diaz loves to use to create confusion on the offensive line.


In the next play, Penn State is showing a max pressure. When the ball is snapped, Penn State drops their two backers back into coverage, rushing only five including a safety who walks up late. They once again bring a looping defender into the middle of the rush, but all the movement pre-snap creates confusion for the offensive line in their blocking assignments. The initial rushes do not get home, but they are able to overwhelm the Minnesota offensive line, getting a sack.


For Penn State their pressure aids their coverage, and if the pressure doesn’t get home the coverage falls apart. This is a dangerous balance, especially against a team like Ohio State who has receivers who can dominate matchups in man-coverage and is well-coached enough to attack areas of zone coverages.


Against the run

Michigan laid the blue print for the Buckeyes to attack Penn State’s defense in the run game. The Wolverines’ running backs used outside and wide zone schemes to break off some long runs. Ohio State is still predictable running the ball, but the schemes the Buckeyes run have had proven success against Penn State.

In the first play, Michigan is running a pin-and-pull concept to the boundary. Michigan’s pinners close off the defensive linemen well, giving the pullers a clear path to get out to the next level. The pullers kick out the Penn State defenders and create a running lane all the way to the end zone. If Ohio State can get their offensive linemen moving and up to the second level, they will have a bounce back performance running the ball.


Once again, Michigan is on the right hash and they choose to run into the boundary with the same pin-and-pull concept. This is an example that shows Ohio State doesn’t need to be complicated. They can run their main concepts and have success. Ohio State has regularly used the pin-and-pull concept this year, but the Buckeyes have mainly used their wide zone to the boundary. Once again, Michigan shows how movable Penn State can be, and another running lane is made by the offensive line that gets the running back to the sticks untouched.


Penn State is a solid, well-coached football team, and on the road will provide a challenge for Ohio State this weekend. This is a huge game for the Buckeyes, and they will have to come into this one prepared for the kitchen sink to be thrown at them.

The Penn State offense is heavily reliant on the success of quarterback Sean Clifford. When Clifford is throwing the ball well and running the ball with a purpose, the offense moves and can put some points on the board. In the run game, Singleton has played well and the duo he forms with Allen has been potent. The issues arise when the run game disappears and Penn State needs Clifford to take over. If Ohio State can take the running game out of the picture, the Penn State offense will be in for a long day.

Defensively, Penn State has been a consistent group this season outside of one contest. Ohio State will have to be prepared for Penn State’s defense to bring a lot of pressure. The Buckeyes will need to remain balanced to keep the Nittany Lions at bay, and allow for the play-action to get set up. If the Buckeyes pass protection holds up, Ohio State should take advantage of the aggressive nature of the Manny Diaz Penn State defense.

For the Buckeyes, coming out of the gate hot and not letting the home stadium get involved will be the first task. If the Buckeyes can get settled early, win the line of scrimmage, and force Sean Clifford into mistakes, the Buckeyes should have a successful day in Happy Valley.

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Why is this News? All the articles and tweets Buckeye fans need for October 27, 2022
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Brooke LaValley / USA TODAY NETWORK

All the Buckeye news thats fit to re-print.

Look, we get it. Your days are busy and you don’t have time to read all of the stories and tweets from the three dozen websites dedicated to covering Ohio State athletics, or the 237 Buckeye beat writers churning out hot takes and #content on a daily basis. But that’s ok, that’s what your friends at Land-Grant Holy Land are here for.

Monday through Friday, we’ll be collecting all of the articles, tweets, features, interviews, videos, podcasts, memes, photos, and whatever else we stumble across on the interwebz and putting them in our daily “Why is this News?” article. That way, you’ll have a one-stop shop for all of the most important Buckeye news, jokes, and analysis.

You’re welcome!

For your Earholes...


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Ask LGHL


Introducing ‘Ask LGHL,’ asking and answering questions throughout the football season
Matt Tamanini, Land-Grant Holy Land

LGHL Asks: How did you feel about Iowa win? What’s your score prediction against Penn State?
Matt Tamanini, Land-Grant Holy Land

On the Gridiron


Practice Report: Focused Buckeyes locking in on trip to Penn State
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row

Big Ten’s 2023 football schedule: What’s changed, key dates
Scott Dochterman and Audrey Snyder, The Athletic

Cade Stover Calls Ryan Day “The Guru of All Football” as Seven Buckeyes Preview Upcoming Road Game at Penn State
Garrick Hodge, Eleven Warriors

Ohio State’s Complete 2023 Schedule Is Here:


Ohio State’s 2023 football schedule: Three thoughts on a road-heavy slate (paywall)
Bill Landis, Dotting the Eyes

Early thoughts on newly-released Buckeyes 2023 schedule (paywall)
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row

Tommy Eichenberg Named Lott Impact Trophy Player of the Week for Performance Against Iowa
Dan Hope, Eleven Warrior

Buckeyes to face top collection of skill position talent at Penn State
Joey Kaufman, The Columbus Dispatch

Penn State Defensive Players to Watch: CB Joey Porter Jr., S Ji’Ayir Brown
Josh Dooley, Land-Grant Holy Land

Healthy Cameron Martinez looking to carve out a role on Buckeyes’ defense (paywall)
Bill Landis, Dotting the Eyes

Guess which is the only Big Ten team that doesn’t play a Power 5 team in the non-conference...


You’re Nuts: What player is most likely to surprise us on Saturday?
Matt Tamanini and Jami Jurich, Land-Grant Holy Land

Iowa game showed the very good of C.J. Stroud, but also where the Ohio State QB still needs to improve
Patrick Murphy, Bucknuts

How Lathan Ransom, Tanner McCalister helped lead Ohio State defensive turnaround (paywall)
Tim May, Lettermen Row

Listen to Ryan Day, Jim Knowles, and Kevin Wilson talk about Penn State:


Column: Could Ohio State play for a different kind of trophy in the Big Ten Championship
Meredith Hein, Land-Grant Holy Land

Dennis Dodd’s Power Rankings: Ohio State New No. 1, Face Biggest Test Saturday
Dennis Dodd, CBSSports

Big Ten stat leaders through Week 8
Gene Ross, Land-Grant Holy Land

Doesn’t bode well for the Gophers and Boilermakers...

On the Hardwood


‘Ice’ Likekele brings charisma, charity with him to Ohio State (paywall)
Adam Jardy, The Columbus Dispatch

2022-23 Ohio State Basketball Team Draft: Picking Lineups from the New-Look Roster for a Head-to-Head Matchup of Buckeyes vs. Buckeyes
Dan Hope and Griffin Strom, Eleven Warriors

Women’s Basketball: Greene Back and Ready to Return for Buckeyes
Caleb Blake, The Lantern

Outside the Shoe and Schott


Men’s Soccer: No. 13 Buckeyes Undefeated at Home with 2-1 Win vs. MSU
Ohio State Athletics

‘It saved me’: Enokk Vimahi grateful OSU emphasizes mental health
Lori Schmidt, The Columbus Dispatch

The women’s volleyball team capped off a three-set sweep of TTUN with a replay review:


Women’s Golf: McGinty Earns Big Ten Golfer of the Week Honors
Ohio State Athletics

And now for something completely different...


Well, that’s embarrassing...


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Bucketheads Podcast: Secret scrimmage season, pre-season Final Four picks, and more
justingolba via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

Ohio State lost their secret scrimmage. Naturally, we should act like the sky is falling.

‘Bucketheads’ is LGHL’s men’s basketball podcast, hosted by Connor Lemons and Justin Golba. Every episode they give you the latest scoop on the Ohio State Buckeyes and everything else happening in the college hoops world.

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First of all, a sincere thank you to everyone that listens to the podcast from us at Bucketheads as this was our 50th episode. It truly means a lot to us. and we hope you will continue with us and we learn and try to make this show better and better.

In this episode, we talked about the secret scrimmage the Buckeyes had against Wake Forest and our takeaways from it (or lack thereof).

We also give our Final Four picks and why we picked who we did (basically, why Justin chose Virginia and what Connor sees in TCU). We closed by drafting teams made up of Big Ten players.

Be sure to like, comment, rate and review the podcast and check out our episode last week with the Columbus Dispatch’s Adam Jardy!


Connect with the Podcast:
Twitter: @BucketheadsLGHL

Connect with Connor:
Twitter: @lemons_connor

Connect with Justin:
Twitter: @justin_golba

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Ohio State picks up Crystal Ball for 2024 top-100 wide receiver
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Grace Brennan | 247Sports

Also, the No. 1 WR in the 2024 class canceled his visit to Ann Arbor for this weekend.

If there’s a position on Ohio State’s roster that’s recruiting at the highest level, it’s the receiver spot. Thanks to position coach Brian Hartline and the overall offensive success, the Buckeyes are recruiting the nation’s best year in and year out, and winning those battles more times than not. Fortunately, the current trend of recruiting success for Ohio State doesn’t look to be stopping any time soon.

Latest Crystal Ball movement


Looking ahead to the 2024 class, the Buckeyes again look to be well on their way to another great haul at receiver. While Ohio State can afford to be pretty picky in the cycle for their top targets thanks to the depth on the current roster, Hartline and crew look to already have their eyes set on a few top players. Likely to take two and at most three guys, there’s already a few names that seem to be in the thick of it regarding Ohio State. The good news: one of those names saw some serious momentum in the Buckeyes’ favor on Wednesday.

The 247Sports Crystal Ball isn’t the end all be all, but it’s a tool that provides insight to a specific recruitment, and yesterday’s submission by Bill Kurelic of Bucknuts towards Ohio State is one that should be taken seriously. On the receiving end, four-star Tyseer Denmark was pegged to the Buckeyes, and that’s definitely one of the receivers that the staff is going to be in on until he makes his decision.

The No. 97 player nationally, Denmark is the 16th-best receiver in the class and the second best player in Pennsylvania, per the 247Sports Composite. Another top receiver out of PA, the Buckeyes are pretty used to swooping in and taking the guys rival Penn State would love to have. Yet again in the 2024 class, Ohio State looks to be well on their way to that same feat. At any rate, an addition like this only makes sense when you consider Ohio State holds the pledge of the nation’s top-ranked quarterback, Dylan Raiola.

A top target cancels visit to see the TUN


Sticking with the trend of top 2024 receivers Ohio State is going after, there’s not a name more important than Florida’s Jeremiah Smith. The No. 2 player nationally, Smith is the top receiver in the 2024 cycle and the top player from his home state as well, according to the 247Sports Composite.

What would be the highest-rated receiver Ohio State has ever landed, Smith currently has multiple 247Sports Crystal Ball predictions to his name, and all of them favor the Buckeyes. While there’s still a way to go in his recruitment before anything is final, Wednesday was a positive sign in regards to Smith’s visit plans.

Originally scheduled to be in Ann Arbor this weekend, Smithh took to Twitter yesterday evening to share that he would not be making the trip to Michigan. Whatever the reasoning behind the canceled visit, Ohio State has to love their top target not checking in on their biggest rival. Again, the Crystal Ball has the Buckeyes very much out in front, and thanks to the efforts from Hartline, this recruitment could just be a matter of time before another elite pass catcher is in the fold for Ohio State.


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LGHL Asks: How did you feel about Iowa win? What’s your score prediction against Penn State?
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

You ask, we answer. Sometimes we ask, others answer. And then other times, we ask, we answer.

Every day for the entirety of the Ohio State football season, we will be asking and answering questions about the team, college football, and anything else on our collective minds of varying degrees of importance. If you have a question that you would like to ask, you can tweet us @LandGrant33 or if you need more than 280 characters, send an email HERE.

We thought it would be the season opener against Notre Dame. It wasn’t. We thought it would be the Big Ten opener against Wisconsin. It also wasn’t. Nor was it the first road game of the season against Michigan State, nor last week’s matchup with Iowa.

So, will this coming Saturday on the road in Happy Valley provide the No. 2 Buckeyes with their first legitimate test of the college football season? We will find out in less than three days.

But, in the meantime, there are some other things that we want to find out, including your thoughts on a few post-Iowa topics and your score predictions for Saturday’s game against the Nits. So, share your thoughts in the survey and comments section below.

Question 1: After the 54-10 victory over Iowa, what was your general feeling about the game?


There are two answers to this multiple-choice question that stick out to me, but I will save my specific thoughts until after y’all have the chance to answer, as I don’t want to be accused of inappropriately influencing the voting public. But, when you peruse Twitter during an Ohio State football game, you see all types of different options.

Sometimes, they make me realize how many smart people there are online, and others remind me of how many moronic people there are online. But in fairness, in both situations, I am often reminded by just how many fun people there are on that otherwise horrendous bird ap.

I saw all four of these opinions in heavy rotation on Saturday, so I am interested to hear where you came down.

Question 2: What do you think about Jaxon Smith-Njigba limping off the field?


Two things seem pretty clear to me:

1) Jaxon Smith-Njigba wants to get back on the field as soon as possible.

2) He’s not 100% healthy.

The first statement is pretty obvious to anyone watching, since he appeared to be in the ear of both Ryan Day and Brian Hartline all game with his helmet on trying to get back into the game. The second statement was also obvious given that he was clearly hobbled as he exited the field in the first half.

Day has downplayed the potential injury all week, saying that JSN not reentering the contest because his snaps were being limited. Of course, that probably was true to an extent, and obviously, the Buckeyes didn’t ultimately need him to win, but given the secrecy that Ohio State operates under in terms of injuries, I don’t have a really good idea as to whether the limping that we saw was just a momentary issue following a specific hit, or if it is something that could continue to linger.

I am confident that Smith-Njigba is going to continue to push to be on the field, I just hope that he doesn’t do so to the detriment of the team or himself (either short-term or long-term).

Question 3: How many points do you think Ohio State will score against Penn State?


Currently, the DraftKing Sportsbook betting odds for this game have Ohio State as a 15.5-point favorite and the total-points number at 61. So, if you do the math on that, Vegas is projecting the Buckeyes to win somewhere in the neighborhood of 38 to 23. Again, not to unfairly influence the voting, but I think oddsmakers and analytics have been undervaluing the Buckeye offense all season. So, I’m not saying, I’m just saying...........

Question 4: How many points do you think Penn State will score against Ohio State?


This will be interesting for me. The Nits aren’t exactly a prolific offense, but they’re solid — they’re 49th nationally in total offense. However, they should be able to do some things that the Buckeyes haven’t had to contend with yet this year.

they average 178.43 rushing yards and 245.1 passing yards per game; again, neither are incredibly impressive, but when combined with a defense that allows just 18.9 points per game, it stacks up to a formidable test — at least on paper.

I’m still not sure exactly what to make of James Franklin’s team, and part of me thinks they are more paper tigers than Nittany Lions, but what do you think?


Have your voice heard and share your thoughts on the Buckeyes here:


Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NCAA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Ohio State Buckeyes fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate.

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Wonder if Zone 6 is going to be renamed House of Dragons
cuz it sure looks like it will be for the next 5 years

All due respect to Bronson Arroyo, a solid 4th starter, but inducting him into the Redleg Hall of Fame is pretty embarrassing.

LGHL Uncut Podcast: Day, Knowles, Wilson talk injuries, Penn State game plan
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here



They also talk about some changes at different position groups.

Throughout the year, Land-Grant Holy Land will be bringing you uncut audio primarily from Ohio State press conferences, but also from individual interview sessions.

Listen to the episode and subscribe:

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On this episode of “Land-Grant Holy Land Uncut,” we have audio from Tuesday afternoon’s football press conference that featured Ohio State head coach Ryan Day, defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, and offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson. The trio recapped last weekend’s Iowa game and provided insights into this coming Saturday’s game against Penn State.

Day discussed why they don’t script the opening drive on offense and how opposing defenses going against tendencies can impact playcalling. He also provides an update to the health of the running back room with TC Caffey being ruled out for the remainder of the season and what that means for Chip Trayanum and Palaie Gaoteote IV.

The defensive coordinator talks about the health and performance of cornerbacks Denzel Burke and Jordan Hancock and what they should be able to bring to the game this weekend.

Finally, Wilson talks about what Iowa did to slow down the running game and what the offense needs to do better against PSU this weekend to prevent that from happening again.

You can watch the full press conference on the official Ohio State athletics website.


Contact Matt Tamanini
Twitter: @BWWMatt

Music by: www.bensound.com

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