3yardsandacloud
Administrator Emeritus
2005 Michigan State Spartans Game Preview
written by: BB73, Bucklion, daddyphatsacs, Hubbard,
Jaxbuck, LordJeffBuck, and 3yardsandacloud
written by: BB73, Bucklion, daddyphatsacs, Hubbard,
Jaxbuck, LordJeffBuck, and 3yardsandacloud
It's time to look forward to this Saturday's tussle with the visiting Michigan State Spartans. Since you're reading this preview, you are to be commended for actively anticipating the Buckeyes' next game after a rough trip to Happy Valley. So go ahead and reach one hand over the top of your shoulder and pat yourself on the back. And if you're wondering - no, this is not the 'reach-around' move often referenced by Thump.
And for those of you not reading this preview: well, it would be rather silly to suggest something to somebody that won't see it, so that advice will not be given.
There are some interesting historical facts regarding the Spartans. The last time MSU had a perfect season was 1952, the year BEFORE they joined the Big-10 Conference. Their other recognized national championship was in 1965, the year before their famous 10-10 tie against Notre Dame, who finshed 1st to MSU's 2nd in both of 1966's final major polls. That team had the fine defense led by Bubba Smith and George Webster. For those that didn't know, Bubba Smith did play a little football before appearing in Police Academy movies and Lite beer commercials.
Since 1966, the Spartans have only had 2 seasons where they finished in the top 10: 1987's 8th-ranked 9-2-1 squad and 1999's 7th-ranked 10-2 team, which are also the only two campaigns since 1966 where they had less than 3 losses.
OK, we might as well mention it. It's like the elephant in the room whenever Sparty comes to mind - 1998. Maybe in about 20 years most of us will no longer be ticked off by the result that day, but probably not. That game in itself is enough of a reason to want the Buckeyes to drill the Spartans every time we play them over the next couple of decades. The details don't need to be mentioned here, we still remember them clearly enough. But it's an interesting and irritating note that 1998 was the only one of Nick Saban's five MSU teams that didn't go to a bowl game.
But there's also another game like that for the longer-term fans - 1974. Woody took the boys up to East Lansing as a clear #1 in the polls, and finished the day with a 16-13 loss; after ending up in the end zone on the last play of the day (as well as the play before, according to Buckeye fans and the pictures in The Lantern that Monday). It took the referees and Big-10 commissioner Wayne Duke over 20 minutes to declare MSU the winner, since there was an offensive penalty on the last play.
History shows that tOSU responded well against the Spartans after that 1974 game. Eight straight wins, and 13 out of 15, until that game 7 years ago that also knocked us from the #1 ranking. Let's hope the team is stilll responding to 1998.
1974 and 1998. Those two numbers supply enough motivation for Buckeye fans to want to rip Sparty a new one whenever we play them. In a clean, hard-fought battle, of course, without anybody suffering any serious injuries.
And for those of you not reading this preview: well, it would be rather silly to suggest something to somebody that won't see it, so that advice will not be given.
There are some interesting historical facts regarding the Spartans. The last time MSU had a perfect season was 1952, the year BEFORE they joined the Big-10 Conference. Their other recognized national championship was in 1965, the year before their famous 10-10 tie against Notre Dame, who finshed 1st to MSU's 2nd in both of 1966's final major polls. That team had the fine defense led by Bubba Smith and George Webster. For those that didn't know, Bubba Smith did play a little football before appearing in Police Academy movies and Lite beer commercials.
Since 1966, the Spartans have only had 2 seasons where they finished in the top 10: 1987's 8th-ranked 9-2-1 squad and 1999's 7th-ranked 10-2 team, which are also the only two campaigns since 1966 where they had less than 3 losses.
OK, we might as well mention it. It's like the elephant in the room whenever Sparty comes to mind - 1998. Maybe in about 20 years most of us will no longer be ticked off by the result that day, but probably not. That game in itself is enough of a reason to want the Buckeyes to drill the Spartans every time we play them over the next couple of decades. The details don't need to be mentioned here, we still remember them clearly enough. But it's an interesting and irritating note that 1998 was the only one of Nick Saban's five MSU teams that didn't go to a bowl game.
But there's also another game like that for the longer-term fans - 1974. Woody took the boys up to East Lansing as a clear #1 in the polls, and finished the day with a 16-13 loss; after ending up in the end zone on the last play of the day (as well as the play before, according to Buckeye fans and the pictures in The Lantern that Monday). It took the referees and Big-10 commissioner Wayne Duke over 20 minutes to declare MSU the winner, since there was an offensive penalty on the last play.
History shows that tOSU responded well against the Spartans after that 1974 game. Eight straight wins, and 13 out of 15, until that game 7 years ago that also knocked us from the #1 ranking. Let's hope the team is stilll responding to 1998.
1974 and 1998. Those two numbers supply enough motivation for Buckeye fans to want to rip Sparty a new one whenever we play them. In a clean, hard-fought battle, of course, without anybody suffering any serious injuries.
Date and Time
Game time: Saturday, October 15th, 2005 (Homecoming)
12:00 Noon EDT Kick-off at Ohio Stadium (Columbus, OH)
ABC Regional coverage of the game. Brent Musberger, Gary Danielson, Jack Arute will call the game.
12:00 Noon EDT Kick-off at Ohio Stadium (Columbus, OH)
ABC Regional coverage of the game. Brent Musberger, Gary Danielson, Jack Arute will call the game.
2005 Michigan State Spartans Offensive Preview
Returning starters: 8
Well, after a tough loss, the Buckeyes get yet another stiff test as the Spartans come to town. If not for an overtime loss to seemingly hapless Michigan, the Spartans would come charging in undefeated and on a major roll after their win over Notre Dame. As it is, they are coming off a bye week, so the offensive players should be raring to go. The Spartans run a version of the spread that is en vogue in college football this year, with 3 receivers and a single back in the backfield. There were hints last year that this team would be an offensive force in 2005. The Spartans were in the top 10 in rushing (238.5 ypg) and total offense (460 ypg) in the nation last year, and the scoring of 29.4 ppg was 38th. With 8 offensive starters returning this year, hopes were high in East Lansing, and they have delivered in a big, big way so far this year. Michigan State is 2nd nationally in total offense at an alarming 575 yards per game, which includes 252.4 yards per game rushing (8th nationally) and 314 yards per game passing (11th nationally). They are scoring a frightening 45.4 points per game also, which is good for 5th in the nation, so there is no doubt that this unit has confidence. Some of the more gaudy stats have come against seemingly weaker competition, but there is no doubt that coordinator Dave Baldwin has Michigan State playing as well as any offense in the country right now. The Buckeyes will really have to roll up their sleeves and put in their best performance of the year to date in order to significantly slow them down.
Quarterbacks
QB #5 Drew Stanton (6-3, 222, JR)
Stanton has taken hold of this offense and steam rolled with it so far this year. He has completed 71.7% of his passes for 1466 yards and 14 TDs, to only 3 INTs. Lest one thinks he is strictly a danger in the pocket, he has also rushed for 123 yards and 2 TDs, so he can be dangerous on the move as well. Stanton has also played very well against quality competition. He has thrown for 300 yards twice, including the Notre Dame victory where he completely dominated, tossing for 327 yards and 3 scores and rushing for 48 yards and another score. Against Michigan he threw for 282, tossed a TD and ran for a TD. He is a vastly improved passer this season, and his ability to scramble that he showed last year makes him all the more dangerous. Containing him in the pocket and getting pressure on him will be absolutely imperative for the Buckeyes this week, because if he gets time to survey the field, he is very, very difficult to defend.
The backup is Brian Hoyer, a redshirt freshman with good size (6-2, 208) and a strong arm. He got some garbage time duty in the Kent State and Illinois games, throwing for 98 yards and 2 scores in 10 completions. He looks to have a good deal of upside, but the Spartans hope they won’t need to see him in this game.
QB Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Drew Stanton versus Troy Smith
It is unnecessary to belabor all of the differences between the two QBs and the 2 offensive styles ... suffice it to say that Stanton is one of the nation's best QBs, and the Buckeyes still have some uncertainty at the position. This is an easy call.
Edge: Stanton
Running Backs
RB #20 Jason Teague (5-9, 193, SR)
The Spartans play a single back in their spread attack, and often play by committee, with different backs inserted in different situations. Teague is a smaller, elusive blue-collar type runner, and brings the most experience to the position, after rushing for 688 yards and 8 TDs last season. He is 3rd on the team in rushing with 265 yards and 2 TDs on only 40 carries. He’s had about the same level of work (8-10 carries, 50-70 yards, a catch or two) in each of the last 3 games.
Second on the depth chart is monster back Jehuu Caulcrick. He is second on the team in rushing with 355 yards and 4 TDs. After carrying a big part of the load the first two games, he has had about 8-10 carries per game the last 3. Obviously, with his size he is a big, bruising runner, perfect for between the tackles and in the red zone.
Freshman Javon Ringer actually leads the team in rushing with 404 yards and 4 TDs. He's had double digit carries in 4 games, so look for him to get some significant work. He torched Illinois for 194 yards on only 13 carries, and scored 3 TDs against Hawaii, so he may be the home-run back to replace the departed DeAndra Cobb.
RB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Teague versus Pittman
This is an unfair comparison per se, since Pittman is the man in Ohio and the Michigan State backfield is by committee. All three backs have put up nice numbers when they've been in there, and perhaps most amazingly all 3 average over 6 yards a carry. Pittman has 462 yards rushing, but he's played against several defenses that were much better than anything on the Michigan State schedule to this point. Neither group of backs catches nearly as many passes as one might expect. Call this one a push.
Edge: Even
Wide Receivers
WR-X #6 Matt Trannon (6-6, 227, SR)
WR-Z #3 Kyle Brown (6-1, 210, SR)
WR-SLOT #32 Jerramy Scott (5-10, 186, JR)
This is a veteran group that can cause all kinds of match up problems. Scott is the leading returner, having caught for 444 yards and 3 TDs last season. This year, he has 17 catches for 274 yards and 3 scores, including 3 receptions for 80 yards against Michigan. Trannon is a nightmare in red zone fade-mode with his size (6-6), and so far he leads the team with 20 catches for 337 yards and a team-high 4 TDs. He caught 5 passes for 136 yards and 2 TDs against Notre Dame. Brown also provides senior leadership, and he has caught 21 passes for 315 yards and 2 TDs. He's had less of an impact against the better teams so far, but will be looking to change that this week. Overall these receivers are a fine group, and compliment each other very well.
Backup slot receiver Terry Love has gotten plenty of work early in the year ... he has 277 yards and a TD, and the experience he has gotten will be valuable to him. Carl Grimes (SLOT- 1 catch), Kerry Reed (X- 10 catches, 173 yards, 2 TDs), and Diego Oquendo (Z) all provide quality depth, and could make an impact this weekend if called upon. This unit is very deep and very talented, and the younger players all look very good so far.
WR Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Trannon/Brown/Scott versus Holmes/Ginn/Gonzalez
All season long, Ohio State has been considered one of the nation's best receiving corps. Unfortunately, the numbers haven't been as great on any front as Buckeye fans would like. This Spartan unit is deep, experienced, and immensely talented, and though Santonio Holmes will probably be the best receiver on the field Saturday, it is difficult to argue with the numbers the Spartans have put up, albeit against generally weaker defenses. Call this one a push for now, and the Spartans can earn their respect if they make some plays against a talented Buckeye defense. It will be up to the Buckeye receivers to exploit a weaker Spartan defense as well.
Edge: Even
Tight Ends
TE #89 Ryan Woods (6-4, 259, SR)
Woods is an absolute monster, capable of blocking linebackers regularly and decimating blitzing players from the secondary. He has absolutely no role in the passing game whatsoever (1 catch, 2 yards) but his blocking is extremely valuable to protect Stanton.
Backups Kellen Davis and Dwayne Holmes are younger players who have figured a bit more in the passing game. Though neither has lit it up for big yardage, both have caught 2 TD passes apiece. One of Davis' catches came against Notre Dame, so don't be surprised to see him in the red zone.
TE Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Woods versus Hamby
Woods is more a blocker, Hamby more a receiver, and there is no real reason to put either significantly ahead of the other. Both serve their teams well, though Hamby's occasional drops are a source of concern. Woods is basically another guard, though a good one.
Edge: Even
Offensive Line
LT #72 Stefon Wheeler (6-5, 330, SR)
LG #74 Kyle Cook (6-3, 295, JR)
C #51 Chris Morris (6-4, 305, SR)
RG #71 Gordon Niebylski (6-3, 312, SR)
RT #66 Mike Gyetvai (6-7, 307, SO)
This is a veteran unit with a lot of size and weight to push around. Morris is a very cerebral player, constantly making calls to protect Stanton in the pocket, and he has done a great job of that this year. The left side of the line is extremely good, with Wheeler being one of the better tackles in the league and Cook being an emotional, mobile blocker, capable of doing a lot of things up front. Niebylski is a powerful veteran on the right side, and up-and-coming Gyetvai has tremendous upside, as well as great size and leverage. This unit as a whole is very good, as evidence by the success Stanton has had staying in the pocket longer in 2005, and all in all is one of the better units in the conference.
OL Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus Ohio State
Neither of these lines rivals that of Texas, but they both are good in their own right. With question marks on the Buckeye line due to injuries, it looks like the Spartan line is clicking on more cylinders right now. Mangold will still be the best player on the field at the OL position this weekend, but as a unit the Spartans seem to deserve the edge.
Edge: Michigan State
Overall Offensive Analysis
This unit doesn’t have any glaring weaknesses, and has produced large numbers against ranked and unranked teams. They are tough and able to run the ball, and at the same time they like to spread it out and throw it all over the field. Putting pressure on Stanton will be the key for the Buckeyes, and establishing a semblance of a running game will be the focus of the Spartans to take some pressure off of him. As a unit, this team may not have all of the best players, but it is very hard to argue with the results. They will get their toughest test by far this weekend, on the road against arguably the nation's best defense. If they don't turn the ball over, they are as good as any offense in the country, and they will need every bit of that this weekend.
Overall Offensive Rating: A
Well, after a tough loss, the Buckeyes get yet another stiff test as the Spartans come to town. If not for an overtime loss to seemingly hapless Michigan, the Spartans would come charging in undefeated and on a major roll after their win over Notre Dame. As it is, they are coming off a bye week, so the offensive players should be raring to go. The Spartans run a version of the spread that is en vogue in college football this year, with 3 receivers and a single back in the backfield. There were hints last year that this team would be an offensive force in 2005. The Spartans were in the top 10 in rushing (238.5 ypg) and total offense (460 ypg) in the nation last year, and the scoring of 29.4 ppg was 38th. With 8 offensive starters returning this year, hopes were high in East Lansing, and they have delivered in a big, big way so far this year. Michigan State is 2nd nationally in total offense at an alarming 575 yards per game, which includes 252.4 yards per game rushing (8th nationally) and 314 yards per game passing (11th nationally). They are scoring a frightening 45.4 points per game also, which is good for 5th in the nation, so there is no doubt that this unit has confidence. Some of the more gaudy stats have come against seemingly weaker competition, but there is no doubt that coordinator Dave Baldwin has Michigan State playing as well as any offense in the country right now. The Buckeyes will really have to roll up their sleeves and put in their best performance of the year to date in order to significantly slow them down.
Quarterbacks
QB #5 Drew Stanton (6-3, 222, JR)
Stanton has taken hold of this offense and steam rolled with it so far this year. He has completed 71.7% of his passes for 1466 yards and 14 TDs, to only 3 INTs. Lest one thinks he is strictly a danger in the pocket, he has also rushed for 123 yards and 2 TDs, so he can be dangerous on the move as well. Stanton has also played very well against quality competition. He has thrown for 300 yards twice, including the Notre Dame victory where he completely dominated, tossing for 327 yards and 3 scores and rushing for 48 yards and another score. Against Michigan he threw for 282, tossed a TD and ran for a TD. He is a vastly improved passer this season, and his ability to scramble that he showed last year makes him all the more dangerous. Containing him in the pocket and getting pressure on him will be absolutely imperative for the Buckeyes this week, because if he gets time to survey the field, he is very, very difficult to defend.
The backup is Brian Hoyer, a redshirt freshman with good size (6-2, 208) and a strong arm. He got some garbage time duty in the Kent State and Illinois games, throwing for 98 yards and 2 scores in 10 completions. He looks to have a good deal of upside, but the Spartans hope they won’t need to see him in this game.
QB Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Drew Stanton versus Troy Smith
It is unnecessary to belabor all of the differences between the two QBs and the 2 offensive styles ... suffice it to say that Stanton is one of the nation's best QBs, and the Buckeyes still have some uncertainty at the position. This is an easy call.
Edge: Stanton
Running Backs
RB #20 Jason Teague (5-9, 193, SR)
The Spartans play a single back in their spread attack, and often play by committee, with different backs inserted in different situations. Teague is a smaller, elusive blue-collar type runner, and brings the most experience to the position, after rushing for 688 yards and 8 TDs last season. He is 3rd on the team in rushing with 265 yards and 2 TDs on only 40 carries. He’s had about the same level of work (8-10 carries, 50-70 yards, a catch or two) in each of the last 3 games.
Second on the depth chart is monster back Jehuu Caulcrick. He is second on the team in rushing with 355 yards and 4 TDs. After carrying a big part of the load the first two games, he has had about 8-10 carries per game the last 3. Obviously, with his size he is a big, bruising runner, perfect for between the tackles and in the red zone.
Freshman Javon Ringer actually leads the team in rushing with 404 yards and 4 TDs. He's had double digit carries in 4 games, so look for him to get some significant work. He torched Illinois for 194 yards on only 13 carries, and scored 3 TDs against Hawaii, so he may be the home-run back to replace the departed DeAndra Cobb.
RB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Teague versus Pittman
This is an unfair comparison per se, since Pittman is the man in Ohio and the Michigan State backfield is by committee. All three backs have put up nice numbers when they've been in there, and perhaps most amazingly all 3 average over 6 yards a carry. Pittman has 462 yards rushing, but he's played against several defenses that were much better than anything on the Michigan State schedule to this point. Neither group of backs catches nearly as many passes as one might expect. Call this one a push.
Edge: Even
Wide Receivers
WR-X #6 Matt Trannon (6-6, 227, SR)
WR-Z #3 Kyle Brown (6-1, 210, SR)
WR-SLOT #32 Jerramy Scott (5-10, 186, JR)
This is a veteran group that can cause all kinds of match up problems. Scott is the leading returner, having caught for 444 yards and 3 TDs last season. This year, he has 17 catches for 274 yards and 3 scores, including 3 receptions for 80 yards against Michigan. Trannon is a nightmare in red zone fade-mode with his size (6-6), and so far he leads the team with 20 catches for 337 yards and a team-high 4 TDs. He caught 5 passes for 136 yards and 2 TDs against Notre Dame. Brown also provides senior leadership, and he has caught 21 passes for 315 yards and 2 TDs. He's had less of an impact against the better teams so far, but will be looking to change that this week. Overall these receivers are a fine group, and compliment each other very well.
Backup slot receiver Terry Love has gotten plenty of work early in the year ... he has 277 yards and a TD, and the experience he has gotten will be valuable to him. Carl Grimes (SLOT- 1 catch), Kerry Reed (X- 10 catches, 173 yards, 2 TDs), and Diego Oquendo (Z) all provide quality depth, and could make an impact this weekend if called upon. This unit is very deep and very talented, and the younger players all look very good so far.
WR Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Trannon/Brown/Scott versus Holmes/Ginn/Gonzalez
All season long, Ohio State has been considered one of the nation's best receiving corps. Unfortunately, the numbers haven't been as great on any front as Buckeye fans would like. This Spartan unit is deep, experienced, and immensely talented, and though Santonio Holmes will probably be the best receiver on the field Saturday, it is difficult to argue with the numbers the Spartans have put up, albeit against generally weaker defenses. Call this one a push for now, and the Spartans can earn their respect if they make some plays against a talented Buckeye defense. It will be up to the Buckeye receivers to exploit a weaker Spartan defense as well.
Edge: Even
Tight Ends
TE #89 Ryan Woods (6-4, 259, SR)
Woods is an absolute monster, capable of blocking linebackers regularly and decimating blitzing players from the secondary. He has absolutely no role in the passing game whatsoever (1 catch, 2 yards) but his blocking is extremely valuable to protect Stanton.
Backups Kellen Davis and Dwayne Holmes are younger players who have figured a bit more in the passing game. Though neither has lit it up for big yardage, both have caught 2 TD passes apiece. One of Davis' catches came against Notre Dame, so don't be surprised to see him in the red zone.
TE Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Woods versus Hamby
Woods is more a blocker, Hamby more a receiver, and there is no real reason to put either significantly ahead of the other. Both serve their teams well, though Hamby's occasional drops are a source of concern. Woods is basically another guard, though a good one.
Edge: Even
Offensive Line
LT #72 Stefon Wheeler (6-5, 330, SR)
LG #74 Kyle Cook (6-3, 295, JR)
C #51 Chris Morris (6-4, 305, SR)
RG #71 Gordon Niebylski (6-3, 312, SR)
RT #66 Mike Gyetvai (6-7, 307, SO)
This is a veteran unit with a lot of size and weight to push around. Morris is a very cerebral player, constantly making calls to protect Stanton in the pocket, and he has done a great job of that this year. The left side of the line is extremely good, with Wheeler being one of the better tackles in the league and Cook being an emotional, mobile blocker, capable of doing a lot of things up front. Niebylski is a powerful veteran on the right side, and up-and-coming Gyetvai has tremendous upside, as well as great size and leverage. This unit as a whole is very good, as evidence by the success Stanton has had staying in the pocket longer in 2005, and all in all is one of the better units in the conference.
OL Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus Ohio State
Neither of these lines rivals that of Texas, but they both are good in their own right. With question marks on the Buckeye line due to injuries, it looks like the Spartan line is clicking on more cylinders right now. Mangold will still be the best player on the field at the OL position this weekend, but as a unit the Spartans seem to deserve the edge.
Edge: Michigan State
Overall Offensive Analysis
This unit doesn’t have any glaring weaknesses, and has produced large numbers against ranked and unranked teams. They are tough and able to run the ball, and at the same time they like to spread it out and throw it all over the field. Putting pressure on Stanton will be the key for the Buckeyes, and establishing a semblance of a running game will be the focus of the Spartans to take some pressure off of him. As a unit, this team may not have all of the best players, but it is very hard to argue with the results. They will get their toughest test by far this weekend, on the road against arguably the nation's best defense. If they don't turn the ball over, they are as good as any offense in the country, and they will need every bit of that this weekend.
Overall Offensive Rating: A
2005 Michigan State Spartans Defensive Preview
Returning Starters: 5
Ohio St. will look to rebound from a poor performance against Penn St. this week when the Spartans of Michigan St. come to town. Michigan St. has a good record but most of that is due to their strong offense. They are 7th in the Big Ten in scoring defense averaging 23 points per contest. They are 8th in the conference in total defense surrendering 405 yards per contest. They have been solid against the run giving up 120 yards per contest (4th in league). Their major Achilles heel has been the pass defense, they are ranked 9th in the conference giving up 287 yards per contest. They are ranked 5th in the conference with 12 sacks on the season, and have the 3rd best red zone defense in the Big Ten allowing points 77% of the time their opponents get inside the 20 yard line.
Defensive Line
DE # 40 MICHAEL BAZEMORE (6-3, 270, SR)
DT # 96 DOMATA PEKO (6-2, 320, SR)
DT # 99 BRANDON MCKINNEY (6-3, 320, SR)
DE # 92 CLIFTON RYAN (6-2, 302, JR)
Michigan St. features an experienced defensive line that has been pretty solid against the run to this point in the season, mostly due to the two steers that the feature in the middle. Leading the way for the Spartans will be senior DT Domata Peko. On the season Peko has a total of 20 tackles, including 2.5 for a loss and a sack. In addition he has forced and recovered a fumble. Peko has also been credited with 3 QB hurries, and a pass breakup. Peko has excellent size, and a good first step. He is one of the 320 pound boulders that will have to be moved if the Buckeyes want to run the ball this week.
The other force in the middle is another senior who goes by the name of Brandon Mckinney. Like Peto, Mckinney is a member of the 320 pound club, which is not small feat. On the season he has a total of 8 tackles and 1 pass breakup.
On the end Michigan St. will be led by senior Michael Bazemore. On the season Bazemore has a total of 20 tackles, including 2 for a loss, and 1 QB sack. In addition he has 1 QB hurry, and also a forced fumble.
The other end for the Spartans will be occupied by junior Clifton Ryan. Ryan has a total of 16 tackles on the season, including 2 for a loss, to go with his 1 QB sack. He also has 3 QB hurries and a forced fumble on the season.
Analysis
Without a doubt, this is the best unit on the team. They have been stingy against the run, and have made most of the big plays for this MSU defense. They have 2 absolute roadblocks in the middle, and will be tough to run on this weekend, especially up the middle. They still lack the firepower that other opponents have brought to the table against the OSU line.
DL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Ohio State (Richardson, Green, Pitcock, Kudla) vs Michigan State (Bazemore, Peko, Mckinney, Ryan)
These guys are pretty decent, but nothing spectacular. OSU faced a very good unit last week in Penn St. Michigan St. has more size than the Lions, but lack the quickness and athleticism to harass Smith all day long. This unit has not done very well in the sack dept. which means that MSU is forced to blitz quite often ... something that OSU will handle this weekend ... especially after that drubbing in Happy Valley from a physical standpoint. OSU on the otherhand has made big plays along the line, and have probably been held more than any other team in the country. Not even close, the Bucks get the edge.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB # 43 KALEB THORNHILL (6-1, 240, SO)
MLB # 41 DAVID HERRON JR. (6-1, 246, JR)
OLB # 27 SIRDAREAN ADAMS (6-0, 222, SO)
Michigan St. brings a set a linebackers to Columbus that are average when compared to the rest of the Big Ten. Leading the way will be sophomore Sirdarean Adams. Adams is off to a strong start from his spot on the outside of the Michigan St. front 7. On the season he has a total of 36 tackles (2nd on team), including 4 for a loss, to go with his 1 QB sack. Adams has also picked off 2 passes this season which is tops on the MSU team. If Michigan St. has a playmaker, it is certainly this young fellow. He is strong against the pass, and decent against the run. He is emerging into a very good young LB for the Spartans.
In the middle Michigan St. will be led by junior David Herron Jr. On the season Herron has a total of 26 tackles, including 3 for a loss and 2 sacks. Herron has also broken up a pass and recovered a fumble.
The final linebacker spot will be occupied by sophomore Kaleb Thornhill. On the season Thornhill is third on the team with a total of 32 tackles, including 1 for a loss. He has also been credited with 1 pass beak up and a fumble recovery.
Analysis
I'll be honest, this unit is not near what we faced in Happy Valley last weekend. No one on the Spartan crew has the ability to take over a game, they can only hope to prevent big plays. OSU should be able to get outside on this unit, that is if they decide to play offense this week.
LB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Ohio Stata (Hawk, Carpenter, Schlegel) vs Michigan State (Thornhill, Herron Jr., Adams)
Not much of a comparison here. Michigan St. has some decent size at LB, but are a very young squad. Regardless of what the Buckeye record reflects, this OSU trio is the best in the country, and have done their part to help win games. Michigan St. has had to rely on way too many tackles from their secondary, which does not say much about this unit.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
CB # 12 ASHTON WATSON (5-11, 189, SR)
FS # 29 GREG COOPER (5-11, 189, JR)
SS # 36 ERIC SMITH (6-1, 202, SR)
CB # 9 DEMOND WILLIAMS (5-9, 174, JR)
Michigan St. brings to Columbus a secondary that has really been lousy for the most part this season. In case you missed it, they are giving up 287 yards per contest in a bend but also break fashion. Let me repeat that ... 287 yards per contest, do you see a weak spot? Anyhow, leading the way for the Spartans will be senior strong safety Eric Smith. On the season Smith has a team high 43 tackles, including 0.5 for a loss. He has also broken up 2 passes, hurried the QB 2 times, and picked off a pass. Sadly for MSU, he is the best player statistically that they have in the secondary. This is his first year as a starter for the Spartans, so far he has responded fairly.
The other safety for the Spartans will be junior Greg Cooper. On the season Cooper has 26 tackles, including 1 for a loss, and a QB sack. Coop also has 1 pass breakup, along with 1 hurry. Yet another first year starter in the Michigan St. secondary, obviously it's become evident where the weakness lies in this secondary.
Leading the way at one of the corner spots for Michigan State will be senior Ashton Watson. On the season Watson has a total of 17 stops, 1 of them has been for a loss. Watson has also picked off a pass this season. Watson has the capability of being a decent corner for the Spartans. He has excellent speed, and is not afraid to tackle someone. Michigan St. will really need a big game from him this weekend, especially in run support.
Wrapping up the secondary for the Spartans will be junior Demond Williams. On the season Williams has a total of 15 tackles, along with 1 interception. He has also been credited with 2 pass breakups on the season.
Analysis
If you look up bad in the Big Ten football dictionary, this unit fits the mold. They are prone to the big play, and are prone to give up large chunks of yards over the span of a game. Watson is the only player in this secondary who has the ability to make a big impact in this game. Sadly for the Spartans, the rest are just fillers.
DB Rating: D+
Head-to-Head: Ohio State (Youboty, Everett, Salley, Whitner) vs Michigan State (Watson, Cooper, Smith, Williams)
This one is pretty simple, I'll try to make it short and sweet. Michigan St. has given up 14 touchdowns by air on the season, OSU has given up 4 thus far. Michigan State's opponents are averaging 286 passing yards per game against the Spartans, OSU's opponents are averaging 182. I rest my case, I'm sure you all can do the math.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
This is one of the lesser defenses that OSU will face for the rest of the season. Which Buckeye team will show up this week? I wish that I could tell you, but even old Daddyphatsacs is stumped about what is going on with this offensive unit. It is obvious that something has to change, and that there is a lot of pressure on Tressel to fix the problems. The good news for JT is that there isn't a more welcoming secondary than MSU in the Big Ten, well maybe besides Northwestern and Purdue. This is probably one of the worst units that we have faced this year, and one that is prone to the big play. The long plays are there this week, will Smith be able to make the throws? Will the line be able to block and hold off the rush? Will the receivers catch the passes thrown to them? If not, I anticipate a nail biter and a game that could easily tip Michigan State's way. But, when I crunch it all together and look for the final answer I think that that Bucks will throw the ball well this week. I don't anticipate them being able to run much up the middle this week, so look for off tackle plays quite a bit. This defense is vulnerable, will the Buckeyes realize the opportunity?
Ohio St. will look to rebound from a poor performance against Penn St. this week when the Spartans of Michigan St. come to town. Michigan St. has a good record but most of that is due to their strong offense. They are 7th in the Big Ten in scoring defense averaging 23 points per contest. They are 8th in the conference in total defense surrendering 405 yards per contest. They have been solid against the run giving up 120 yards per contest (4th in league). Their major Achilles heel has been the pass defense, they are ranked 9th in the conference giving up 287 yards per contest. They are ranked 5th in the conference with 12 sacks on the season, and have the 3rd best red zone defense in the Big Ten allowing points 77% of the time their opponents get inside the 20 yard line.
Defensive Line
DE # 40 MICHAEL BAZEMORE (6-3, 270, SR)
DT # 96 DOMATA PEKO (6-2, 320, SR)
DT # 99 BRANDON MCKINNEY (6-3, 320, SR)
DE # 92 CLIFTON RYAN (6-2, 302, JR)
Michigan St. features an experienced defensive line that has been pretty solid against the run to this point in the season, mostly due to the two steers that the feature in the middle. Leading the way for the Spartans will be senior DT Domata Peko. On the season Peko has a total of 20 tackles, including 2.5 for a loss and a sack. In addition he has forced and recovered a fumble. Peko has also been credited with 3 QB hurries, and a pass breakup. Peko has excellent size, and a good first step. He is one of the 320 pound boulders that will have to be moved if the Buckeyes want to run the ball this week.
The other force in the middle is another senior who goes by the name of Brandon Mckinney. Like Peto, Mckinney is a member of the 320 pound club, which is not small feat. On the season he has a total of 8 tackles and 1 pass breakup.
On the end Michigan St. will be led by senior Michael Bazemore. On the season Bazemore has a total of 20 tackles, including 2 for a loss, and 1 QB sack. In addition he has 1 QB hurry, and also a forced fumble.
The other end for the Spartans will be occupied by junior Clifton Ryan. Ryan has a total of 16 tackles on the season, including 2 for a loss, to go with his 1 QB sack. He also has 3 QB hurries and a forced fumble on the season.
Analysis
Without a doubt, this is the best unit on the team. They have been stingy against the run, and have made most of the big plays for this MSU defense. They have 2 absolute roadblocks in the middle, and will be tough to run on this weekend, especially up the middle. They still lack the firepower that other opponents have brought to the table against the OSU line.
DL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Ohio State (Richardson, Green, Pitcock, Kudla) vs Michigan State (Bazemore, Peko, Mckinney, Ryan)
These guys are pretty decent, but nothing spectacular. OSU faced a very good unit last week in Penn St. Michigan St. has more size than the Lions, but lack the quickness and athleticism to harass Smith all day long. This unit has not done very well in the sack dept. which means that MSU is forced to blitz quite often ... something that OSU will handle this weekend ... especially after that drubbing in Happy Valley from a physical standpoint. OSU on the otherhand has made big plays along the line, and have probably been held more than any other team in the country. Not even close, the Bucks get the edge.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB # 43 KALEB THORNHILL (6-1, 240, SO)
MLB # 41 DAVID HERRON JR. (6-1, 246, JR)
OLB # 27 SIRDAREAN ADAMS (6-0, 222, SO)
Michigan St. brings a set a linebackers to Columbus that are average when compared to the rest of the Big Ten. Leading the way will be sophomore Sirdarean Adams. Adams is off to a strong start from his spot on the outside of the Michigan St. front 7. On the season he has a total of 36 tackles (2nd on team), including 4 for a loss, to go with his 1 QB sack. Adams has also picked off 2 passes this season which is tops on the MSU team. If Michigan St. has a playmaker, it is certainly this young fellow. He is strong against the pass, and decent against the run. He is emerging into a very good young LB for the Spartans.
In the middle Michigan St. will be led by junior David Herron Jr. On the season Herron has a total of 26 tackles, including 3 for a loss and 2 sacks. Herron has also broken up a pass and recovered a fumble.
The final linebacker spot will be occupied by sophomore Kaleb Thornhill. On the season Thornhill is third on the team with a total of 32 tackles, including 1 for a loss. He has also been credited with 1 pass beak up and a fumble recovery.
Analysis
I'll be honest, this unit is not near what we faced in Happy Valley last weekend. No one on the Spartan crew has the ability to take over a game, they can only hope to prevent big plays. OSU should be able to get outside on this unit, that is if they decide to play offense this week.
LB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Ohio Stata (Hawk, Carpenter, Schlegel) vs Michigan State (Thornhill, Herron Jr., Adams)
Not much of a comparison here. Michigan St. has some decent size at LB, but are a very young squad. Regardless of what the Buckeye record reflects, this OSU trio is the best in the country, and have done their part to help win games. Michigan St. has had to rely on way too many tackles from their secondary, which does not say much about this unit.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
CB # 12 ASHTON WATSON (5-11, 189, SR)
FS # 29 GREG COOPER (5-11, 189, JR)
SS # 36 ERIC SMITH (6-1, 202, SR)
CB # 9 DEMOND WILLIAMS (5-9, 174, JR)
Michigan St. brings to Columbus a secondary that has really been lousy for the most part this season. In case you missed it, they are giving up 287 yards per contest in a bend but also break fashion. Let me repeat that ... 287 yards per contest, do you see a weak spot? Anyhow, leading the way for the Spartans will be senior strong safety Eric Smith. On the season Smith has a team high 43 tackles, including 0.5 for a loss. He has also broken up 2 passes, hurried the QB 2 times, and picked off a pass. Sadly for MSU, he is the best player statistically that they have in the secondary. This is his first year as a starter for the Spartans, so far he has responded fairly.
The other safety for the Spartans will be junior Greg Cooper. On the season Cooper has 26 tackles, including 1 for a loss, and a QB sack. Coop also has 1 pass breakup, along with 1 hurry. Yet another first year starter in the Michigan St. secondary, obviously it's become evident where the weakness lies in this secondary.
Leading the way at one of the corner spots for Michigan State will be senior Ashton Watson. On the season Watson has a total of 17 stops, 1 of them has been for a loss. Watson has also picked off a pass this season. Watson has the capability of being a decent corner for the Spartans. He has excellent speed, and is not afraid to tackle someone. Michigan St. will really need a big game from him this weekend, especially in run support.
Wrapping up the secondary for the Spartans will be junior Demond Williams. On the season Williams has a total of 15 tackles, along with 1 interception. He has also been credited with 2 pass breakups on the season.
Analysis
If you look up bad in the Big Ten football dictionary, this unit fits the mold. They are prone to the big play, and are prone to give up large chunks of yards over the span of a game. Watson is the only player in this secondary who has the ability to make a big impact in this game. Sadly for the Spartans, the rest are just fillers.
DB Rating: D+
Head-to-Head: Ohio State (Youboty, Everett, Salley, Whitner) vs Michigan State (Watson, Cooper, Smith, Williams)
This one is pretty simple, I'll try to make it short and sweet. Michigan St. has given up 14 touchdowns by air on the season, OSU has given up 4 thus far. Michigan State's opponents are averaging 286 passing yards per game against the Spartans, OSU's opponents are averaging 182. I rest my case, I'm sure you all can do the math.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
This is one of the lesser defenses that OSU will face for the rest of the season. Which Buckeye team will show up this week? I wish that I could tell you, but even old Daddyphatsacs is stumped about what is going on with this offensive unit. It is obvious that something has to change, and that there is a lot of pressure on Tressel to fix the problems. The good news for JT is that there isn't a more welcoming secondary than MSU in the Big Ten, well maybe besides Northwestern and Purdue. This is probably one of the worst units that we have faced this year, and one that is prone to the big play. The long plays are there this week, will Smith be able to make the throws? Will the line be able to block and hold off the rush? Will the receivers catch the passes thrown to them? If not, I anticipate a nail biter and a game that could easily tip Michigan State's way. But, when I crunch it all together and look for the final answer I think that that Bucks will throw the ball well this week. I don't anticipate them being able to run much up the middle this week, so look for off tackle plays quite a bit. This defense is vulnerable, will the Buckeyes realize the opportunity?
Predictions
Bucklion's prediction: 27-17, Ohio State
BB73's prediction: 24-17, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: 34-17, Ohio State
Jaxbuck's prediction: 31-23, Ohio State
LordJeffBuck's prediction: 31-21, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 35-17, Ohio State
Last Week's Results (OSU 10 - PSU 17)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
(77) Jaxbuck's prediction: 27-14, Ohio State (17 + 3 = 20 + 47 last week + 10 pt penalty)
(79) LordJeffBuck's prediction: 28-24, Penn State (11 + 14 = 25 + 54 last week)
(80) Hubbard's prediction: ?-?, Ohio State (No Prediction = Highest Score + 2 pt penalty [27] + 43 last week + 10 pt penalty)
(80) BB73's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State (14 + 4 = 18 + 52 last week + 10 pt penalty)
(80) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 27-17, Ohio State (17 + 0 = 17 + 53 last week + 10 pt penalty)
(93) daddyphatsac's prediction: 19-9, Ohio State (9 + 8 = 17 + 66 last week + 10 pt penalty)
(110) Bucklion's prediction: 23-19, Ohio State (13 + 2 = 15 + 85 last week + 10 pt penalty)
BB73's prediction: 24-17, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: 34-17, Ohio State
Jaxbuck's prediction: 31-23, Ohio State
LordJeffBuck's prediction: 31-21, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 35-17, Ohio State
Last Week's Results (OSU 10 - PSU 17)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
(77) Jaxbuck's prediction: 27-14, Ohio State (17 + 3 = 20 + 47 last week + 10 pt penalty)
(79) LordJeffBuck's prediction: 28-24, Penn State (11 + 14 = 25 + 54 last week)
(80) Hubbard's prediction: ?-?, Ohio State (No Prediction = Highest Score + 2 pt penalty [27] + 43 last week + 10 pt penalty)
(80) BB73's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State (14 + 4 = 18 + 52 last week + 10 pt penalty)
(80) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 27-17, Ohio State (17 + 0 = 17 + 53 last week + 10 pt penalty)
(93) daddyphatsac's prediction: 19-9, Ohio State (9 + 8 = 17 + 66 last week + 10 pt penalty)
(110) Bucklion's prediction: 23-19, Ohio State (13 + 2 = 15 + 85 last week + 10 pt penalty)
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