3yardsandacloud
Administrator Emeritus
2007-08 LSU Allstate BCS National Championship Game Preview
written by: BB73, BuckeyeRyn, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, DaddyBigBucks, Hubbard, jwinslow, OSUBucks22, and 3yardsandacloud
Link to 2007-08 LSU Fighting Tigers Additional Information
Preface
Welcome to the BP Preview for the BCS Championship Game in New Orleans. The contents of these are a "labor of love" for those of us who contribute; and are made possible by the overall guidance and leadership of 3yardsandacloud. There are various sections within this preview: Offensive, Defensive, and Special Teams previews follow this Preface; and the Additional Information area contains sections on Recruiting, Behind the Numbers, The Lighter Side, and Historical Information.
Another season is coming to a close, with the Buckeyes once again finding themselves in a 51-day interval between a victory against TSUN and a chance to win a National Title by playing the Champion of the SEC. Ohio State's 0-8 mark when playing SEC teams in bowl games is well-documented, as is their 1-0-1 record against LSU in the late 1980s. The winner of this game will become the first team to win more than one BCS Championship.
A look at history shows that tOSU is 9-5 when playing the #2 team in the AP poll all-time, and that when AP #1 has played AP #2 in a bowl game, the top-ranked team holds a slim 9-8 edge.
Ohio State all-time vs. AP No. 2 (9 wins, 5 losses)
OSU..OPP.Location...Opponent......Date......Result
#4...#2..Home.......Wisconsin.....10-23-54..W 31-14
#16..#2..Away.......Iowa..........11-15-58..W 38-28
NR...#2..Away.......Wisconsin.....10-26-63..W 13-10
#4...#2..Away.......Illinois......10-10-64..W 26-0
NR...#2..Home.......Purdue........10-14-67..L 6-41
#1...#2..Rose Bowl..Southern Cal..01-01-69..W 27-16
#6...#2..Away.......Oklahoma......09-17-83..W 24-14
#4...#2..Rose Bowl..Arizona St....01-01-97..W 20-17
#7...#2..Away.......Penn State....10-11-97..L 27-31
#18..#2..Away.......Penn State....10-16-99..L 10-23
#4...#2..Home.......Texas.........09-10-05..L 22-25
#1...#2..Away.......Texas.........09-09-06..W 24-7
#1...#2..Home.......Michigan......11-18-06..W 42-39
#1...#2..Glendale...Florida.......01-08-07..L 14-41
Here are all of the Bowl games between AP #1 and AP #2:
01-07-2008 - #1 Ohio St..... ??, #2 LSU...........?? (BCS Championship)
01-08-2007 - #2 Florida..... 41, #1 Ohio St...... 14 (BCS Championship)
01-04-2006 - #2 Texas....... 41, #1 Southern Cal. 38 (Rose)
01-04-2005 - #1 Southern Cal 55, #2 Oklahoma..... 19 (Orange)
01-03-2003 - #2 Ohio St..... 31, #1 Miami........ 24, 2OT (Fiesta)
01-04-2000 - #1 Florida St.. 46, #2 Virginia Tech 29 (Sugar)
01-04-1999 - #1 Tennessee... 23, #2 Florida State 16 (Fiesta)
01-02-1996 - #1 Nebraska.... 62, #2 Florida ......24 (Fiesta)
01-01-1994 - #1 Florida St.. 18, #2 Nebraska .....16 (Orange)
01-01-1993 - #2 Alabama..... 34, #1 Miami ........13 (Sugar)
01-01-1988 - #2 Miami....... 20, #1 Oklahoma .....14 (Orange)
01-02-1987 - #2 Penn St..... 14, #1 Miami ........10 (Fiesta)
01-01-1983 - #2 Penn St..... 27, #1 Georgia ......23 (Sugar)
01-01-1979 - #2 Alabama..... 14, #1 Penn St....... 7 (Sugar)
01-01-1972 - #1 Nebraska.... 38, #2 Alabama....... 6 (Orange)
01-01-1969 - #1 Ohio State.. 27, #2 Southern Cal. 16 (Rose)
01-01-1964 - #1 Texas ...... 28, #2 Navy ......... 6 (Cotton)
01-01-1963 - #1 Southern Cal 42, #2 Wisconsin ....37 (Rose)
This year's game will mark the third time that a bowl game between AP #1 and AP #2 matches two teams that were both ranked AP #1 during that season. The other times that occurred were after the 1978 season (Alabama-Penn State) and the 1968 season (Ohio State-USC).
This will be the first time that LSU has played in a game matching the top two teams in the AP poll (After the 2003 season, LSU won the BCS Title game by defeating Oklahoma in New Orleans, but USC was #1 in the AP poll). Including the 22 times that the top two AP teams have met in the regular season (since the poll started in 1936), here is the list of how those games have gone, for each team that's participated in more than 1 game between AP #1 and AP #2.
Team..........record....win-%
Army...........3-0-1... .875
Ohio State.....4-1..... .800
Texas..........4-1..... .800
Notre Dame.....5-2-2... .667
Alabama........2-1..... .667
Penn State.....2-1..... .667
Nebraska.......3-2..... .600
Florida State..3-3..... .500
Miami..........3-3..... .500
USC............3-3..... .500
Florida........1-2..... .333
Oklahoma.......1-6..... .143
Navy...........0-3..... .000
Michigan.......0-4..... .000
Teams that are 1-0: Iowa, Purdue, Tennessee
Teams that are 0-1: Arkansas, Georgia, Iowa Pre-flight, Virginia Tech, Wisconsin
Team with only a tie: Michigan State
But this is the era of the BCS, so let's look at some information gathered since the BCS started in 1998.
BCS bowl records for teams with more than 1 appearance (as of 12-31-2007)
Ohio State..4-1
USC.........4-1
LSU.........3-0
Florida.....3-1
Miami, FL...3-1
Texas.......2-0
Wisconsin...2-0
Oklahoma....2-3
Georgia.....1-1
Nebraska....1-1
Tennessee...1-1
Michigan....1-3
Florida St..1-5
Va. Tech....0-2
Notre Dame..0-3
2007 was a year in which 8 different teams held a BCS ranking of either #1 or #2 at some point in the season. The previous high for any season was 5 teams (in '00, '01 and '03). The following chart lists every team that has held one of the top 2 positions at some point in the 10-year history of the BCS, and shows which teams have spent the most weeks at those spots.
Team....#wks BCS #1...BCS #2...BCS #1/2....seasons while BCS #1/#2
Oklahoma......18........9........27.......'00, '01, '02, '03, '04
Ohio State....15........7........22.......'98, '02, '03, '06, '07
Southern Cal..15........7........22.......'03, '04, '05, '06
Miami..........7.......10........17.......'00, '01, '02, '03, '04
Florida St.....7........5........12.......'98, '99, '00
Tennessee......5........3.........8.......'98, '99, '01
Texas..........1........7.........8.......'05
Nebraska.......5........2.........7.......'00, '01
LSU............2........3.........5.......'03, '07
UCLA...........1........4.........5.......'98
Virginia Tech..0........5.........5.......'99, '00
Michigan.......0........5.........5.......'06
Florida........0........2.........2.......'01, '06
Penn State.....0........2.........2.......'99
Boston Coll....0........2.........2.......'07
Missouri.......1........0.........1.......'07
Kansas.........0........1.........1.......'07
Oregon.........0........1.........1.......'07
South Florida..0........1.........1.......'07
West Virginia..0........1.........1.......'07
How big of a Dome Field advantage will LSU have in the Superdome? Looking back at all of their previous bowl game played in their home state, LSU has won 5 straight to give themselves an 8-7 record, including 2 Independence Bowl victories in the 1990s in Shreveport. The other games were all in the Sugar Bowl, where LSU is 6-7, but 3-0 in this century:
LSU's record in Louisiana Bowl Games (rankings are AP)
01-03-2007 - #04 LSU......... 41, #11 Notre Dame....14 (Sugar)
01-04-2004 - #02 LSU......... 21, #03 Oklahoma..... 14 (Sugar/BCS Championship)
01-01-2002 - #12 LSU......... 47, #07 Illinois..... 34 (Sugar)
12-28-1997 - #15 LSU......... 27, N/R Notre Dame.... 9 (Independence)
12-29-1995 - N/R LSU......... 45, N/R Michigan St.. 26 (Independence)
01-01-1987 - #05 LSU......... 15, #06 Nebraska..... 30 (Sugar)
01-01-1985 - #11 LSU......... 10, #05 Nebraska..... 28 (Sugar)
01-01-1968 - N/R LSU......... 20, #07 Wyoming...... 13 (Sugar)
01-01-1965 - #06 LSU......... 13, N/R Syracuse..... 10 (Sugar)
01-01-1960 - #03 LSU.......... 0, #02 Ole Miss..... 21 (Sugar)
01-01-1959 - #01 LSU.......... 7, #12 Clemson....... 0 (Sugar)
01-02-1950 - #13 LSU.......... 0, #03 Oklahoma..... 35 (Sugar)
01-01-1938 - #10 LSU.......... 0, #08 Santa Clara... 6 (Sugar)
01-01-1937 - #02 LSU......... 14, #05 Santa Clara.. 21 (Sugar)
01-01-1936 - --- LSU.......... 2, --- TCU........... 3 (2nd Sugar Bowl, no AP poll)
How have the Buckeyes fared while playing football in the "Sportsman's Paradise"? Ohio State is 1-2-1 in the Bayou State, with all games being in the Sugar Bowl except for the 1987 regular season tie with LSU.
tOSU's record in games played in Louisiana
01-01-1999 - #03 Ohio State.. 24, #08 Texas A&M.... 14 (Sugar)
01-01-1998 - #09 Ohio State.. 14, #04 Florida State 31 (Sugar)
09-26-1987 - #07 Ohio State.. 13, #04 LSU.......... 13 (Both teams were still "undefeated in regulation")
01-02-1978 - #09 Ohio State... 6, #03 Alabama...... 35 (Sugar)
Do yourself a favor by taking the time to read this entire preview. Even if you're not enamored with statistics, there is a wealth of information and some very interesting reading within the 'Behind the Numbers' section written by DaddyBigBucks, which is found in the 'Additional Information' area. The contributors don't wear scarlet glasses while analyzing the teams, they have given their best efforts to create an unbiased evaluation. Exceptions to this are allowed in the "Lighter Side", which by design is intended to be the view of a Buckeye homer, and the predictions for the final score, where fan loyalty is a factor.
So enjoy this preview and the new year, and whether you're rooting for The Hat or The Vest, "Have a great day!"
Another season is coming to a close, with the Buckeyes once again finding themselves in a 51-day interval between a victory against TSUN and a chance to win a National Title by playing the Champion of the SEC. Ohio State's 0-8 mark when playing SEC teams in bowl games is well-documented, as is their 1-0-1 record against LSU in the late 1980s. The winner of this game will become the first team to win more than one BCS Championship.
A look at history shows that tOSU is 9-5 when playing the #2 team in the AP poll all-time, and that when AP #1 has played AP #2 in a bowl game, the top-ranked team holds a slim 9-8 edge.
Ohio State all-time vs. AP No. 2 (9 wins, 5 losses)
OSU..OPP.Location...Opponent......Date......Result
#4...#2..Home.......Wisconsin.....10-23-54..W 31-14
#16..#2..Away.......Iowa..........11-15-58..W 38-28
NR...#2..Away.......Wisconsin.....10-26-63..W 13-10
#4...#2..Away.......Illinois......10-10-64..W 26-0
NR...#2..Home.......Purdue........10-14-67..L 6-41
#1...#2..Rose Bowl..Southern Cal..01-01-69..W 27-16
#6...#2..Away.......Oklahoma......09-17-83..W 24-14
#4...#2..Rose Bowl..Arizona St....01-01-97..W 20-17
#7...#2..Away.......Penn State....10-11-97..L 27-31
#18..#2..Away.......Penn State....10-16-99..L 10-23
#4...#2..Home.......Texas.........09-10-05..L 22-25
#1...#2..Away.......Texas.........09-09-06..W 24-7
#1...#2..Home.......Michigan......11-18-06..W 42-39
#1...#2..Glendale...Florida.......01-08-07..L 14-41
Here are all of the Bowl games between AP #1 and AP #2:
01-07-2008 - #1 Ohio St..... ??, #2 LSU...........?? (BCS Championship)
01-08-2007 - #2 Florida..... 41, #1 Ohio St...... 14 (BCS Championship)
01-04-2006 - #2 Texas....... 41, #1 Southern Cal. 38 (Rose)
01-04-2005 - #1 Southern Cal 55, #2 Oklahoma..... 19 (Orange)
01-03-2003 - #2 Ohio St..... 31, #1 Miami........ 24, 2OT (Fiesta)
01-04-2000 - #1 Florida St.. 46, #2 Virginia Tech 29 (Sugar)
01-04-1999 - #1 Tennessee... 23, #2 Florida State 16 (Fiesta)
01-02-1996 - #1 Nebraska.... 62, #2 Florida ......24 (Fiesta)
01-01-1994 - #1 Florida St.. 18, #2 Nebraska .....16 (Orange)
01-01-1993 - #2 Alabama..... 34, #1 Miami ........13 (Sugar)
01-01-1988 - #2 Miami....... 20, #1 Oklahoma .....14 (Orange)
01-02-1987 - #2 Penn St..... 14, #1 Miami ........10 (Fiesta)
01-01-1983 - #2 Penn St..... 27, #1 Georgia ......23 (Sugar)
01-01-1979 - #2 Alabama..... 14, #1 Penn St....... 7 (Sugar)
01-01-1972 - #1 Nebraska.... 38, #2 Alabama....... 6 (Orange)
01-01-1969 - #1 Ohio State.. 27, #2 Southern Cal. 16 (Rose)
01-01-1964 - #1 Texas ...... 28, #2 Navy ......... 6 (Cotton)
01-01-1963 - #1 Southern Cal 42, #2 Wisconsin ....37 (Rose)
This year's game will mark the third time that a bowl game between AP #1 and AP #2 matches two teams that were both ranked AP #1 during that season. The other times that occurred were after the 1978 season (Alabama-Penn State) and the 1968 season (Ohio State-USC).
This will be the first time that LSU has played in a game matching the top two teams in the AP poll (After the 2003 season, LSU won the BCS Title game by defeating Oklahoma in New Orleans, but USC was #1 in the AP poll). Including the 22 times that the top two AP teams have met in the regular season (since the poll started in 1936), here is the list of how those games have gone, for each team that's participated in more than 1 game between AP #1 and AP #2.
Team..........record....win-%
Army...........3-0-1... .875
Ohio State.....4-1..... .800
Texas..........4-1..... .800
Notre Dame.....5-2-2... .667
Alabama........2-1..... .667
Penn State.....2-1..... .667
Nebraska.......3-2..... .600
Florida State..3-3..... .500
Miami..........3-3..... .500
USC............3-3..... .500
Florida........1-2..... .333
Oklahoma.......1-6..... .143
Navy...........0-3..... .000
Michigan.......0-4..... .000
Teams that are 1-0: Iowa, Purdue, Tennessee
Teams that are 0-1: Arkansas, Georgia, Iowa Pre-flight, Virginia Tech, Wisconsin
Team with only a tie: Michigan State
But this is the era of the BCS, so let's look at some information gathered since the BCS started in 1998.
BCS bowl records for teams with more than 1 appearance (as of 12-31-2007)
Ohio State..4-1
USC.........4-1
LSU.........3-0
Florida.....3-1
Miami, FL...3-1
Texas.......2-0
Wisconsin...2-0
Oklahoma....2-3
Georgia.....1-1
Nebraska....1-1
Tennessee...1-1
Michigan....1-3
Florida St..1-5
Va. Tech....0-2
Notre Dame..0-3
2007 was a year in which 8 different teams held a BCS ranking of either #1 or #2 at some point in the season. The previous high for any season was 5 teams (in '00, '01 and '03). The following chart lists every team that has held one of the top 2 positions at some point in the 10-year history of the BCS, and shows which teams have spent the most weeks at those spots.
Team....#wks BCS #1...BCS #2...BCS #1/2....seasons while BCS #1/#2
Oklahoma......18........9........27.......'00, '01, '02, '03, '04
Ohio State....15........7........22.......'98, '02, '03, '06, '07
Southern Cal..15........7........22.......'03, '04, '05, '06
Miami..........7.......10........17.......'00, '01, '02, '03, '04
Florida St.....7........5........12.......'98, '99, '00
Tennessee......5........3.........8.......'98, '99, '01
Texas..........1........7.........8.......'05
Nebraska.......5........2.........7.......'00, '01
LSU............2........3.........5.......'03, '07
UCLA...........1........4.........5.......'98
Virginia Tech..0........5.........5.......'99, '00
Michigan.......0........5.........5.......'06
Florida........0........2.........2.......'01, '06
Penn State.....0........2.........2.......'99
Boston Coll....0........2.........2.......'07
Missouri.......1........0.........1.......'07
Kansas.........0........1.........1.......'07
Oregon.........0........1.........1.......'07
South Florida..0........1.........1.......'07
West Virginia..0........1.........1.......'07
How big of a Dome Field advantage will LSU have in the Superdome? Looking back at all of their previous bowl game played in their home state, LSU has won 5 straight to give themselves an 8-7 record, including 2 Independence Bowl victories in the 1990s in Shreveport. The other games were all in the Sugar Bowl, where LSU is 6-7, but 3-0 in this century:
LSU's record in Louisiana Bowl Games (rankings are AP)
01-03-2007 - #04 LSU......... 41, #11 Notre Dame....14 (Sugar)
01-04-2004 - #02 LSU......... 21, #03 Oklahoma..... 14 (Sugar/BCS Championship)
01-01-2002 - #12 LSU......... 47, #07 Illinois..... 34 (Sugar)
12-28-1997 - #15 LSU......... 27, N/R Notre Dame.... 9 (Independence)
12-29-1995 - N/R LSU......... 45, N/R Michigan St.. 26 (Independence)
01-01-1987 - #05 LSU......... 15, #06 Nebraska..... 30 (Sugar)
01-01-1985 - #11 LSU......... 10, #05 Nebraska..... 28 (Sugar)
01-01-1968 - N/R LSU......... 20, #07 Wyoming...... 13 (Sugar)
01-01-1965 - #06 LSU......... 13, N/R Syracuse..... 10 (Sugar)
01-01-1960 - #03 LSU.......... 0, #02 Ole Miss..... 21 (Sugar)
01-01-1959 - #01 LSU.......... 7, #12 Clemson....... 0 (Sugar)
01-02-1950 - #13 LSU.......... 0, #03 Oklahoma..... 35 (Sugar)
01-01-1938 - #10 LSU.......... 0, #08 Santa Clara... 6 (Sugar)
01-01-1937 - #02 LSU......... 14, #05 Santa Clara.. 21 (Sugar)
01-01-1936 - --- LSU.......... 2, --- TCU........... 3 (2nd Sugar Bowl, no AP poll)
How have the Buckeyes fared while playing football in the "Sportsman's Paradise"? Ohio State is 1-2-1 in the Bayou State, with all games being in the Sugar Bowl except for the 1987 regular season tie with LSU.
tOSU's record in games played in Louisiana
01-01-1999 - #03 Ohio State.. 24, #08 Texas A&M.... 14 (Sugar)
01-01-1998 - #09 Ohio State.. 14, #04 Florida State 31 (Sugar)
09-26-1987 - #07 Ohio State.. 13, #04 LSU.......... 13 (Both teams were still "undefeated in regulation")
01-02-1978 - #09 Ohio State... 6, #03 Alabama...... 35 (Sugar)
Do yourself a favor by taking the time to read this entire preview. Even if you're not enamored with statistics, there is a wealth of information and some very interesting reading within the 'Behind the Numbers' section written by DaddyBigBucks, which is found in the 'Additional Information' area. The contributors don't wear scarlet glasses while analyzing the teams, they have given their best efforts to create an unbiased evaluation. Exceptions to this are allowed in the "Lighter Side", which by design is intended to be the view of a Buckeye homer, and the predictions for the final score, where fan loyalty is a factor.
So enjoy this preview and the new year, and whether you're rooting for The Hat or The Vest, "Have a great day!"
Date and Time
Date: Monday, January 7th, 2008
Time: 8:00 EDT Kick-off
Location: Louisiana Superdome
Constructed: 1975 (Repaired and Refurbished in 2006)
Seating Capacity: 72,003
Playing Surface: Sportexe Momentum
Events: BCS National Championship Game
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: Fox Sports: Thom Brennaman (Play-by-play), Charles Davis (Analysis), and Chris Myers (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Time: 8:00 EDT Kick-off
Location: Louisiana Superdome
Constructed: 1975 (Repaired and Refurbished in 2006)
Seating Capacity: 72,003
Playing Surface: Sportexe Momentum
Events: BCS National Championship Game
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: Fox Sports: Thom Brennaman (Play-by-play), Charles Davis (Analysis), and Chris Myers (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
2007-08 LSU Tigers Offensive Preview
Returning starters: 6
Obviously any team that makes the national title game will be a stiff test for the Buckeye defense, but the Louisiana State Tigers present a myriad of challenges, due to their multiple formations and depth at almost every position. In 2007, LSU ranked in the top 20 in several major statistical categories. In total yards per game, they ranked 20th nationally at 463.1 per contest. Within that total, they struck a very impressive balance of running and passing yardage. Their rushing average per game of 218.9 ranks an impressive 13th nationally, and their passing average of 229.2, while only ranking 53rd, still causes big problems for defenses due to talent at the receiver position and the effectiveness of the running game. The Tigers also piled up the points this year, scoring 38.7 per game, ranked 12th nationally. Moving the chains wasn't a problem for the Tigers this season either, as their 22.4 1st downs per game ranked 30th nationally, and their 3rd down conversion percentage is an impressive 45.4%, good for 22nd nationally. All together, these numbers demonstrate that the LSU offense has been very potent all season, and that the Buckeyes will have their hands full in their quest for a 2nd national title in the Jim Tressel era.
Quarterbacks
QB #15 Matt Flynn (6-3, 227, SR, Robert E. Lee HS, Tyler, TX)
QB #11 Ryan Perrilloux (6-3, 227, SO, East St. John HS, LaPlace, LA)
At the helm of the offense has been the tough and gritty Matt Flynn, from famed Lee HS in Tyler, Texas. After throwing only a total of 68 passes while backing up 1st round draft pick JaMarcus Russell for the past 2 seasons, he finally got his chance to start his final season, and he has led LSU to the brink of a national title. Many remember his only previous start prior to this season, the famed 40-3 demolition of Miami in the Peach Bowl of 2005, where he was named the game's MVP.
Most of Flynn's numbers in 2007 aren't earth-shattering by today's pass-happy standards, but many of them, including yards, touchdowns, and completions, rank in the top 10 in school history for a season. He started every game except the one against Middle Tennessee, where the start went to Perrilloux after Flynn suffered an ankle injury, and the SEC Championship game. He completed 55.1% of his 332 throws for 2233 yards and 17 TDs against 7 INTs. He was sacked 25 times, not a dramatic total for 13 games. Flynn can also be an occasional threat on the ground, as he was 5th on the team with 207 yards rushing and 4 TDs. He is a gutty dual threat QB who can hang in the pocket, deliver the big throw, and also contribute with a scramble. Though he did throw his share of incompletions and INTs, he is extremely difficult to rattle and has been in many close games this season, so his senior leadership is invaluable in those situations.
He started the season throwing for 128 yards and 2 scores while adding 42 yards on the ground in defeating Mississippi State, being named LSU's (internal) offensive player of the game. He followed with 217 yards passing and a rushing TD in the night-time demolition of Virginia Tech. After missing the Middle Tennessee game with an injury, he struggled in his return to the lineup, completing only 8 of 19 for 90 yards and a TD against South Carolina. He bounced back with 258 yards passing against Tulane, though he did throw a pick and have -39 yards rushing in that game. The next stretch of games was challenging, as he threw for 144 yards and a TD and ran for 30 more in a big win over Florida, threw for only 130 yards and a TD while adding 53 on the ground in their triple OT loss to Kentucky. Following the defeat, Flynn showed his moxie and his leadership ability by having his two best games of the season. No one from the state of Alabama wants to ever see him again, because he threw for 319 yards and 3 scores against Auburn while being named LSU and SEC offensive player of the week, and then followed that with 353 yards and 3 TDs to beat the Tide (despite throwing 3 INTs). He then threw for 257 yards and 3 TDs and ran one in against Louisiana Tech, and threw for 168 yards and had a rushing TD against Ole Miss. Against Arkansas he threw for 209 yards and 3 TDs, and added 27 yards and a rushing TD, but it wasn't enough to prevent their second heart-breaking loss of the season. Anyone who saw that game knows the heart and guts he has and the value and importance Flynn is to his team. His health will be of utmost importance come January.
On the other hand Perrilloux was one of the most prized signings in LSU history out of HS, and was considered one of the top players coming out of HS in 2004, even rating #1 by many services. He has shown flashes of his extensive potential while playing a variety of roles this season. He has entered the games periodically for gadget plays or a change of pace at QB, and he has also looked great in his 2 starts. He completed 68% of his throws over the course of the season for 694 yards and 8 TDs against just 2 INTs for a rating of over 175. He was also 6th on the team in rushing with 203 yards and 2 TDs. He is a major dual threat type of QB, and one would imagine he will most definitely be involved in the gameplan against the Buckeyes because of his athletic and big-play ability.
After starting the season with a rushing TD against Mississippi State, he performed very well in the 2nd half of the Virginia Tech game, completing all 5 of his passes for 84 yards and 2 TDs. His start against Middle Tennessee produced an 80% completion percentage, 298 yards passing, 3 TDs, and an additional 37 rushing yards. He played sporadically for the rest of the season, including having a season-high 59 yards rushing against South Carolina, rushing for a TD against Florida, and throwing for 37 yards and a TD against Louisiana Tech. He started the SEC championship game, where he completed 67% of his throws for 243 yards and a TD against a quality opponent in Tennessee, taking home the coveted SEC Championship MVP trophy in leading his team to victory. He is an explosive and promising young player that seems to have nearly limitless potential.
QB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus Ohio State QBs
Flynn (P/R): 183/332 (55.1%), 2233 yards, 17 TDs, 10 INTs, 122.5 rating; 88/207, 4 TDs.
Boeckman (P/R): 176/273 (64.5%), 2171 yards, 23 TDs, 12 INTs, 150.3 rating; 47/70, 0 TDs.
Both teams have quality quarterbacks who provide good leadership. Many of Boeckman's numbers are better than Flynn's on the season, but it is hard to know whether fans will see the Boeckman that routed Penn State or the Boeckman that struggled significantly at the end of the season against Illinois and Michigan. Flynn's health comes into play as well, but depth definitely goes to the Tigers, as Perrilloux is raw but has demonstrated his ability to start a game against a quality opponent and perform well. Overall, given the struggles in the passing game at the end of the season for the Buckeyes and the ability of Perrilloux, give the positional edge to the Tigers.
Edge: Louisiana State
Running Backs
TB #18 Jacob Hester (6-0, 228, SR, Evangel HS, Shreveport, LA)
FB #45 Quinn Johnson (6-2, 238, JR, West St. John HS, Edgard, LA) or
FB #40 Shawn Jordan (5-11, 254, SR, Riverside HS, El Paso, TX)
Jacob Hester is a player that Buckeye fans could love...tough, physical, deceptively quick, versatile (he can line up at TB or FB) and no-nonsense. As with many Buckeyes, big-time football is also in his family (at least by marriage) as his wife's uncle is former St. Louis Cardinals standout Pat Tilley. He led the team in rushing yards, all-purpose yards, and TDs en route to being named LSU offensive player of the game against Florida and Louisiana Tech and also being named 2nd team All-SEC by the coaches and honorable mention by the AP. He is primarily a tough and fearless runner between the tackles that will get the most difficult and important yards and crucial times. Hester exceeded 100 yards rushing 4 times in 2007, crossed the 1000 yard barrier and also scored 11 rushing TDs. He also added 14 receptions with an addition score, so he is a potential weapon out of the backfield on occasion as well, adding to his versatility. He scored at least one TD in 9 games, and will definitely be a handful for the Buckeye front 7 in New Orleans.
He started the season modestly, gaining 68 yards in the season opener and then 81 with a score in the rout of Virginia Tech. After playing sparingly against Middle Tennessee (57 yards on 10 carries), he had 88 yards and a TD against South Carolina. Though he gained only 33 yards the following game against Tulane, he did score 2 TDs. His best game was against Florida, where he was the difference-maker in leading the Tigers to a big win, gaining 106 yards, scoring the go-ahead TD with a minute left and converting two 4th downs on the final drive. He racked up LSU offensive player of the week, SEC offensive player of the week, and national player of the week (Sporting News) awards for that performance. His production then tailed off a bit the next 3 games, gaining 61 yards against Kentucky, 50 against Auburn and then 47 yards with 2 TDs against Alabama. He finished the season strong, hitting Louisiana Tech for 115 yards and a TD on only 11 carries, gaining 65 and a TD against Ole Miss, gaining 126 yards and scoring 2 TDs in the heartbreaking loss to Arkansas and rushing for 120 yards against Tennessee in the SEC title game. So he gained over 100 yards 3 of his last 4 games, and appears to be in prime form entering the bowl game.
The backup situation has a trio of very talented and very promising sophomores at the helm, and Keiland Williams (#5, 6-0, 226, SO) is the primary option. He was second on the team with 458 yards and scored 6 TDs. He has played in every game and touched the ball at least once in every contest. He had a lot of work early in the season, scoring a pair of TDs in the first 2 games and gaining 126 yards against Virginia Tech. His other highlights include 9 carries, 46 yards, and a TD against Florida, scoring a TD against Ole Miss and 10 carries for 47 yards in the Arkansas game. It appears he will probably get between 4 and 8 touches in the bowl game if that contest holds true to form. He has averaged 6.7 yards per carry this season, so he has been very productive with his touches.
Third on the team in rushing is sophomore Trindon Holliday (#8, 5-5, 160). He's a burner (and member of the LSU track team) and a big play threat, and may be both the fastest and smallest major college running back. He was named the LSU offensive player of the game against South Carolina, a game where he gained 73 yards and scored a TD on only 6 carries. He also gained 45 on 5 carries with a TD against Louisiana Tech, and gained 58 yards on just 6 carries against Tennessee in the SEC title game. His 7.0 yards per carry demonstrate how dangerous he is, and he is another weapon the Buckeyes have to prepare for.
Yet a fourth option is sophomore Charles Scott (#32, 5-11, 226), who is fourth on the team with 318 yards and 5 TDs, and is another big play threat. His highlights include 53 yards and 2 TDs on only 6 carries against Tulane, 94 yards and 2 TDs on only 7 carries against Kentucky, and 66 yards and a TD on just 3 carries against Ole Miss. He's also caught 11 passes and scored 2 TDs through the air. His combination of power and speed and his 7.4 yard per carry average are yet another dimension of this very powerful Tiger rushing attack.
As if the sophomores aren't enough, there's also promising freshman Richard Murphy (#26). He was a sporadic but significant contributor with 33 carries for 197 yards and 2 scores and caught 6 balls. His best game was against Louisiana Tech where he gained 62 yards on only 3 carries. He appears to have a good future for the Tigers.
Quinn Johnson is a former linebacker and punishing fullback who helps pave the way for the ferocious ground attack the Tigers bring out every Saturday. Though he had no carries in 2007 and caught just 2 passes for 18 yards, his contributions should not be overlooked. Jordan is a smart player and another bruiser who doesn't get the ball much (4 carries), but has started 2 of the last 3 games and could be the man to start against the Buckeyes.
RB Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus Ohio State RBs
Hester: 204/1017 yards, 11 TDs, 5.0 YPC; 14 rec/106 yards, 1 TD, 7.6 YPR
Williams: 68/458 yards, 6 TDs, 6.7 YPC; 8 rec/114 yards, 1 TD, 14.3 YPR
Holliday: 50/351 yards, 2 TDs, 7.0 YPC; 2 rec/3 yards, 0 TDs, 1.5 YPR
C Wells: 254/1463 yards, 14 TDs, 5.8 YPC; 5 rec/21 yards, 0 TDs, 4.2 YPR
M Wells: 103/367 yards, 3 TDs, 3.6 YPC; 10 rec/47 yards, 1 TD, 4.7 YPR
Saine: 60/267 yards, 2 TDs, 4.5 YPC: 9 rec/91 yards, 1 TD, 10.1 YPR
Hester is a warrior who carried his team on his back at times this season. The same can certainly be said of Wells, who at the end of the season actually carried the Buckeyes more extensively on his shoulders. Both players are "ground and pound" backs with deceptive speed that can run over players in the secondary and outrun linebackers. Hester finished the season strong, with 3 100 yard games and 4 TDs in the final 4 contests. Wells finished the season on a rampage, cracking 100 yards 4 times and gaining over 220 yards twice while scoring 8 TDs in the final 5 games. It is clear that without these two players, these teams are not in the title games, but Wells gets the edge for his phenomenal stretch and his 2 monster games. On the flip side, the Tigers get the edge in depth and options off the bench, as their extra players contributed significantly throughout the season. Maurice Wells and Saine have proven to be significant contributors in stretches as well for the Buckeyes. The trio of sophomores gives the Tigers a myriad of gameplan strategies that will give the Buckeyes a lot to think about, and they will probably use their backups with more frequency and regularity. Overall, both squads have a stellar front man and enough depth and talent to compete with anyone in the country at the position, so this one is too close to call.
Edge: Even
Wide Receivers
WR #1 Brandon LaFell (6-3, 205, SO, Lamar HS, Houston, TX)
WR #9 Early Doucet (6-1, 210, SR, St. Martinville HS, St. Martinville, LA)
WR #2 Demetrius Byrd (6-2, 195, JR, Miami Central HS, Miami, FL)
The Tigers have battled injuries at this position at times this year, but they are incredibly deep and talented at the receiver spots, posing a particularly challenging day for any secondary. Leading the way statistically was LaFell, still a young player with good size and speed. Though he crossed the 100 yard receiving mark just once, early in the season against Virginia Tech (7 catches, 125 yards), he has been a consistent contributor, catching at least 3 passes in 11 games. His highlights include 76 yards against Tulane, a rushing TD against Middle Tennessee, 6 catches for 73 yards in the big win over Florida, 5 catches for 80 yards and a score against Louisiana Tech, and 65 yards in the SEC Title game. His height makes him an attractive red zone target, though he caught just 3 TD passes this season.
Early Doucet missed significant time with injury (5 games), but still managed to lead the team with 50 catches in just 8 games, in 7 of which he caught at least 5 passes. He has been a veteran leader for the team and ranks in the career top 10 at LSU in several statistical categories. He opened the season with 2 impressive games (9 catches, 78 yards, TD against Mississippi State, and 6 catches, 75 yards, TD against Virginia Tech) before missing the next 5 games (though he was in on one play against Kentucky). He returned to the lineup with a flurry, catching 7 passes for 93 yards against Auburn and scoring 2 TDs against Alabama. He also caught 8 passes against Mississippi and 7 against Arkansas. He is a tough receiver who has played through a good deal of pain to have a successful season, setting a good example and providing a good deal of leadership for the younger players at the position along the way. He undoubtedly will be a favorite target for the Tigers in the bowl game.
Byrd is a burner who transferred from junior college and made a huge impact, ranking 2nd on the team with 593 receiving yards and leading the team with 7 TDs. Though his contributions have been sporadic, they have been very big, as evidenced by his impressive YPR and his 7 TD receptions. His breakout came when he caught 2 passes for 86 yards and a TD against Middle Tennessee. He then caught 3 for 69 against Tulane, scored a TD against Florida, and had a monster two week stretch where he caught 3 passes for 89 yards and a TD against Auburn (the game-winner) and caught 6 passes for 144 yards and a score against Alabama. He also had very good games leading into the bowl game, as he caught 6 passes for 46 yards and 2 scores against Arkansas and followed that with 4 receptions for 72 yards and a score in the SEC Title game. A big play threat, watch for him to be the primary deep option in the bowl game.
Other players to watch for are the Mitchells, Jared (#87) and Chris (#86) who combined for 18 catches this season and each have starting experience. Another intriguing player for the Tigers is Terrance Toliver (#80), a blazing freshman who has seen some limited action but had 119 yards receiving against Middle Tennessee en route to 24.3 yards per catch and 3 TDs on the season on the way to being named freshman All-SEC by the coaches.
WR Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus Ohio State WRs
LaFell: 48 catches, 641 yards, 3 TDs, 13.4 YPR
Byrd: 33 catches, 593 yards, 7 TDs, 18.0 YPR
Doucet: 50 catches, 474 yards, 4 TDs, 9.5 YPR
Robiskie: 50 catches, 885 yards, 10 TDs, 17.7 YPR
Hartline: 46 catches, 619 yards, 5 TDs, 13.5 YPR
Small: 19 catches, 253 yards, 2 TDs, 13.3 YPR
This is another position battle that is intriguing to match up. Doucet missed significant time to injury but still had a productive season, and LaFell was a steady contributor. Byrd emerged as the big play threat. On the Buckeye side, Robiskie was the primary downfield option and Hartline made several key catches down the stretch as well. Small emerged as a good 3rd option in what had started as basically a 2 receiver offense for the Buckeyes. The Buckeye passing game struggled down the stretch, but the receivers are still as dangerous as they were when the passing game was peaking at mid-season and both were contributing significantly. The Tigers have several good options but none who dominated the scene consistently. Neither team got particularly big contributions from the players down the chart, though the edge there would have to go to the Tigers with Toliver. This is a close contest, but give the edge to the Tigers if all the players are healthy.
Edge: Louisiana State
Tight Ends
TE #82 Richard Dickson (6-3, 235, SO, Ocean Springs HS, Ocean Springs, MS)
TE #89 Keith Zinger (6-4, 250, SR, Leesville HS, Leesville, LA)
Dickson and Zinger are interchangeable parts in the sense that they both start and have plenty of experience, but both have differing primary strengths. Zinger has 32 career starts at TE, and is primarily a bulldozer of a blocker in the daunting running game, and he has caught only 2 passes this season. His starts this season include games against Mississippi State, Virginia Tech, Florida, Kentucky, Auburn, Alabama, and the SEC title game. Dickson on the other hand is more of a threat in the passing game, ranking 4th on the team and having 28 catches and 3 TDs this season. He has 14 career starts and started the Middle Tennessee, Tulane, Louisiana Tech, Mississippi, and Arkansas games. His biggest game was against Arkansas at the end of the season, when he caught 5 passes for 69 yards. Whichever player officially starts, both play extensively and contribute valuably to the offense.
TE Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus Ohio State TEs
Dickson: 28 catches, 331 yards, 3 TDs, 11.8 YPR
Zinger: 2 catches, 33 yards, 0 TDs, 16.5 YPR
Nicol: 16 catches, 84 yards, 0 TDs, 5.3 YPR
Ballard: 13 catches, 149 yards, 2 TDs, 11.5 YPR
These units are both solid in most respects. Dickson can be a dangerous downfield weapon in the passing game, and Ballard emerged as a similar threat as the season progressed for the Buckeyes. Nicol is a quality and veteran player who is a solid blocker with good fundamentals, which can also be said of Zinger. Both of these units will probably be most critical to the success of the running games, though a big pass reception at a crucial time could make the difference in an important drive as well. Both units are solid, so call it even.
Edge: Even
Offensive Line
LT #70 Ciron Black (6-5, 320, SO, Robert E. Lee HS, Tyler, TX)
LG #79 Herman Johnson (6-7, 356, JR, Denton HS, Olla, LA)
C #74 Brett Helms (6-2, 270, JR, Stuttgart HS, Stuttgart, AR)
RG #65 Lyle Hitt (6-2, 299, SO, Parkview Baptist HS, Baton Rouge, LA)
RT #71 Carnell Stewart (6-5, 320, SR, John Curtis HS, River Ridge, LA)
This line is very physical and very talented. Incredibly, every single player went through the regular season starting every single game save one, where Ryan Miller (#63; 6-6, 302, JR, Barbe HS, Lake Charles, LA) started one game against Kentucky at right guard in place of Hitt. Otherwise, the entire starting lineup was intact all season, remarkable considering the pounding that the line takes week after week on any team.
The left side of the line is very strong, very big, and very capable of both run and pass blocking. Ciron Black had a stellar season and was named offensive player of the week for the Tigers against Tulane and was named honorable mention All-SEC by the AP and 2nd team All-SEC by the coaches. He is only a sophomore but has started 26 games already in his very promising career and protects the blind side very well. Herman "The House" Johnson is a certified monster on the left side of the interior. He has gone from being the "baby bulldozer" (he was the largest recorded baby in Louisiana, according to the media guide) to starting 21 consecutive games in his college career and was named offensive player of the game for the Tigers against Ole Miss and 2nd team All-SEC by the AP, 1st team by the coaches. Manning the middle is Helms, who moved over from guard in the spring of 2006 and has 25 career starts. He was in on over 90% of the Tigers' plays this season. He was also named the Tigers' offensive player of the game against Middle Tennessee State. Helms isn't as big as his counterparts, so he relies on mobility, footwork, and enhanced technique to anchor the middle of the line. He was also an honorable mention All-SEC pick by the AP. On the right side, the veteran Stewart led the team during the regular season by playing in 98.1% of the team's plays, and has been a stalwart after finally getting the opportunity to start this season. Hitt won a wide open race in fall camp at right guard and has made the most of his opportunity, adequately manning his position while gaining valuable experience. This line is big and tough, has good technique, but most importantly has a great deal of experience playing alongside each other, so the continuity of their blocking schemes is very, very impressive.
The line is relatively thin behind the stellar top 5. The Tigers do have a high caliber reserve in Miller, an extremely versatile player who has the only other start this season at RG and is the top backup at all 3 interior line spots. A pair of promising freshman tackles, Jarvis Jones (#76, 6-7, 294) and Joseph Barksdale (#78, 6-4, 310) are the backups on the outside but have played sparingly.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus Ohio State OL
Both of these lines do a very good job at run blocking and also can protect the quarterback effectively. Both teams are very solid in their fundamentals, have some headline-quality players, and are especially effective road-grating for running backs, especially in the 2nd half of games. The key to the title game will be the play of the lines, as both quarterbacks will need adequate time to throw and will need the running games to be effective to open up the passing attack since both teams are run-first-oriented offenses. Depth could be an issue for either team if a significant injury is sustained, particularly at tackle, but short of that both lines should be very effective and make life miserable for the opposing front seven. The ultimate indication of which line is better, most likely along with the result of the game itself, will be determined on the field by these two units. For now, given the dramatic recent success of the Buckeye rushing attack and the Tigers' continuity, it is too close to call.
Edge: Even
Overall Offensive Analysis
The numbers demonstrate that this is a quality offense with stellar amounts of production and excellent balance between the pass and the run. There is plenty of speed and talent at the skill positions, and the line is very solid and has played together all season. Clearly they've been a handful for every team they've played, and the Buckeyes will be no different. The ability (or lack thereof, depending) to run the ball early with Hester and complete some high-percentage throws to the receivers early will probably set the tone one way or the other for the Tigers. They have the ability to run a base offense, send in multiple formations, and have a seemingly limitless amount of talent on the bench at the skill positions to bring in to change things up, spell a starter, or run a special play at a critical time. The Tigers are a big play offense, so the Buckeyes will need to force them to earn their points with long and sustained drives. They will also have to penetrate the line to put some pressure on the QB and put the Tigers in some 3rd and long situations. When the Tigers are dictating the pace, with a lot of quality rushing early and a lot of 2nd and 3rd and short situations, they are deadly at moving the chains and taking some shots downfield. It will be up to the Buckeyes to counteract this, and that will be the key to the game for the defense.
Overall Offensive Rating: A-
Obviously any team that makes the national title game will be a stiff test for the Buckeye defense, but the Louisiana State Tigers present a myriad of challenges, due to their multiple formations and depth at almost every position. In 2007, LSU ranked in the top 20 in several major statistical categories. In total yards per game, they ranked 20th nationally at 463.1 per contest. Within that total, they struck a very impressive balance of running and passing yardage. Their rushing average per game of 218.9 ranks an impressive 13th nationally, and their passing average of 229.2, while only ranking 53rd, still causes big problems for defenses due to talent at the receiver position and the effectiveness of the running game. The Tigers also piled up the points this year, scoring 38.7 per game, ranked 12th nationally. Moving the chains wasn't a problem for the Tigers this season either, as their 22.4 1st downs per game ranked 30th nationally, and their 3rd down conversion percentage is an impressive 45.4%, good for 22nd nationally. All together, these numbers demonstrate that the LSU offense has been very potent all season, and that the Buckeyes will have their hands full in their quest for a 2nd national title in the Jim Tressel era.
Quarterbacks
QB #15 Matt Flynn (6-3, 227, SR, Robert E. Lee HS, Tyler, TX)
QB #11 Ryan Perrilloux (6-3, 227, SO, East St. John HS, LaPlace, LA)
At the helm of the offense has been the tough and gritty Matt Flynn, from famed Lee HS in Tyler, Texas. After throwing only a total of 68 passes while backing up 1st round draft pick JaMarcus Russell for the past 2 seasons, he finally got his chance to start his final season, and he has led LSU to the brink of a national title. Many remember his only previous start prior to this season, the famed 40-3 demolition of Miami in the Peach Bowl of 2005, where he was named the game's MVP.
Most of Flynn's numbers in 2007 aren't earth-shattering by today's pass-happy standards, but many of them, including yards, touchdowns, and completions, rank in the top 10 in school history for a season. He started every game except the one against Middle Tennessee, where the start went to Perrilloux after Flynn suffered an ankle injury, and the SEC Championship game. He completed 55.1% of his 332 throws for 2233 yards and 17 TDs against 7 INTs. He was sacked 25 times, not a dramatic total for 13 games. Flynn can also be an occasional threat on the ground, as he was 5th on the team with 207 yards rushing and 4 TDs. He is a gutty dual threat QB who can hang in the pocket, deliver the big throw, and also contribute with a scramble. Though he did throw his share of incompletions and INTs, he is extremely difficult to rattle and has been in many close games this season, so his senior leadership is invaluable in those situations.
He started the season throwing for 128 yards and 2 scores while adding 42 yards on the ground in defeating Mississippi State, being named LSU's (internal) offensive player of the game. He followed with 217 yards passing and a rushing TD in the night-time demolition of Virginia Tech. After missing the Middle Tennessee game with an injury, he struggled in his return to the lineup, completing only 8 of 19 for 90 yards and a TD against South Carolina. He bounced back with 258 yards passing against Tulane, though he did throw a pick and have -39 yards rushing in that game. The next stretch of games was challenging, as he threw for 144 yards and a TD and ran for 30 more in a big win over Florida, threw for only 130 yards and a TD while adding 53 on the ground in their triple OT loss to Kentucky. Following the defeat, Flynn showed his moxie and his leadership ability by having his two best games of the season. No one from the state of Alabama wants to ever see him again, because he threw for 319 yards and 3 scores against Auburn while being named LSU and SEC offensive player of the week, and then followed that with 353 yards and 3 TDs to beat the Tide (despite throwing 3 INTs). He then threw for 257 yards and 3 TDs and ran one in against Louisiana Tech, and threw for 168 yards and had a rushing TD against Ole Miss. Against Arkansas he threw for 209 yards and 3 TDs, and added 27 yards and a rushing TD, but it wasn't enough to prevent their second heart-breaking loss of the season. Anyone who saw that game knows the heart and guts he has and the value and importance Flynn is to his team. His health will be of utmost importance come January.
On the other hand Perrilloux was one of the most prized signings in LSU history out of HS, and was considered one of the top players coming out of HS in 2004, even rating #1 by many services. He has shown flashes of his extensive potential while playing a variety of roles this season. He has entered the games periodically for gadget plays or a change of pace at QB, and he has also looked great in his 2 starts. He completed 68% of his throws over the course of the season for 694 yards and 8 TDs against just 2 INTs for a rating of over 175. He was also 6th on the team in rushing with 203 yards and 2 TDs. He is a major dual threat type of QB, and one would imagine he will most definitely be involved in the gameplan against the Buckeyes because of his athletic and big-play ability.
After starting the season with a rushing TD against Mississippi State, he performed very well in the 2nd half of the Virginia Tech game, completing all 5 of his passes for 84 yards and 2 TDs. His start against Middle Tennessee produced an 80% completion percentage, 298 yards passing, 3 TDs, and an additional 37 rushing yards. He played sporadically for the rest of the season, including having a season-high 59 yards rushing against South Carolina, rushing for a TD against Florida, and throwing for 37 yards and a TD against Louisiana Tech. He started the SEC championship game, where he completed 67% of his throws for 243 yards and a TD against a quality opponent in Tennessee, taking home the coveted SEC Championship MVP trophy in leading his team to victory. He is an explosive and promising young player that seems to have nearly limitless potential.
QB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus Ohio State QBs
Flynn (P/R): 183/332 (55.1%), 2233 yards, 17 TDs, 10 INTs, 122.5 rating; 88/207, 4 TDs.
Boeckman (P/R): 176/273 (64.5%), 2171 yards, 23 TDs, 12 INTs, 150.3 rating; 47/70, 0 TDs.
Both teams have quality quarterbacks who provide good leadership. Many of Boeckman's numbers are better than Flynn's on the season, but it is hard to know whether fans will see the Boeckman that routed Penn State or the Boeckman that struggled significantly at the end of the season against Illinois and Michigan. Flynn's health comes into play as well, but depth definitely goes to the Tigers, as Perrilloux is raw but has demonstrated his ability to start a game against a quality opponent and perform well. Overall, given the struggles in the passing game at the end of the season for the Buckeyes and the ability of Perrilloux, give the positional edge to the Tigers.
Edge: Louisiana State
Running Backs
TB #18 Jacob Hester (6-0, 228, SR, Evangel HS, Shreveport, LA)
FB #45 Quinn Johnson (6-2, 238, JR, West St. John HS, Edgard, LA) or
FB #40 Shawn Jordan (5-11, 254, SR, Riverside HS, El Paso, TX)
Jacob Hester is a player that Buckeye fans could love...tough, physical, deceptively quick, versatile (he can line up at TB or FB) and no-nonsense. As with many Buckeyes, big-time football is also in his family (at least by marriage) as his wife's uncle is former St. Louis Cardinals standout Pat Tilley. He led the team in rushing yards, all-purpose yards, and TDs en route to being named LSU offensive player of the game against Florida and Louisiana Tech and also being named 2nd team All-SEC by the coaches and honorable mention by the AP. He is primarily a tough and fearless runner between the tackles that will get the most difficult and important yards and crucial times. Hester exceeded 100 yards rushing 4 times in 2007, crossed the 1000 yard barrier and also scored 11 rushing TDs. He also added 14 receptions with an addition score, so he is a potential weapon out of the backfield on occasion as well, adding to his versatility. He scored at least one TD in 9 games, and will definitely be a handful for the Buckeye front 7 in New Orleans.
He started the season modestly, gaining 68 yards in the season opener and then 81 with a score in the rout of Virginia Tech. After playing sparingly against Middle Tennessee (57 yards on 10 carries), he had 88 yards and a TD against South Carolina. Though he gained only 33 yards the following game against Tulane, he did score 2 TDs. His best game was against Florida, where he was the difference-maker in leading the Tigers to a big win, gaining 106 yards, scoring the go-ahead TD with a minute left and converting two 4th downs on the final drive. He racked up LSU offensive player of the week, SEC offensive player of the week, and national player of the week (Sporting News) awards for that performance. His production then tailed off a bit the next 3 games, gaining 61 yards against Kentucky, 50 against Auburn and then 47 yards with 2 TDs against Alabama. He finished the season strong, hitting Louisiana Tech for 115 yards and a TD on only 11 carries, gaining 65 and a TD against Ole Miss, gaining 126 yards and scoring 2 TDs in the heartbreaking loss to Arkansas and rushing for 120 yards against Tennessee in the SEC title game. So he gained over 100 yards 3 of his last 4 games, and appears to be in prime form entering the bowl game.
The backup situation has a trio of very talented and very promising sophomores at the helm, and Keiland Williams (#5, 6-0, 226, SO) is the primary option. He was second on the team with 458 yards and scored 6 TDs. He has played in every game and touched the ball at least once in every contest. He had a lot of work early in the season, scoring a pair of TDs in the first 2 games and gaining 126 yards against Virginia Tech. His other highlights include 9 carries, 46 yards, and a TD against Florida, scoring a TD against Ole Miss and 10 carries for 47 yards in the Arkansas game. It appears he will probably get between 4 and 8 touches in the bowl game if that contest holds true to form. He has averaged 6.7 yards per carry this season, so he has been very productive with his touches.
Third on the team in rushing is sophomore Trindon Holliday (#8, 5-5, 160). He's a burner (and member of the LSU track team) and a big play threat, and may be both the fastest and smallest major college running back. He was named the LSU offensive player of the game against South Carolina, a game where he gained 73 yards and scored a TD on only 6 carries. He also gained 45 on 5 carries with a TD against Louisiana Tech, and gained 58 yards on just 6 carries against Tennessee in the SEC title game. His 7.0 yards per carry demonstrate how dangerous he is, and he is another weapon the Buckeyes have to prepare for.
Yet a fourth option is sophomore Charles Scott (#32, 5-11, 226), who is fourth on the team with 318 yards and 5 TDs, and is another big play threat. His highlights include 53 yards and 2 TDs on only 6 carries against Tulane, 94 yards and 2 TDs on only 7 carries against Kentucky, and 66 yards and a TD on just 3 carries against Ole Miss. He's also caught 11 passes and scored 2 TDs through the air. His combination of power and speed and his 7.4 yard per carry average are yet another dimension of this very powerful Tiger rushing attack.
As if the sophomores aren't enough, there's also promising freshman Richard Murphy (#26). He was a sporadic but significant contributor with 33 carries for 197 yards and 2 scores and caught 6 balls. His best game was against Louisiana Tech where he gained 62 yards on only 3 carries. He appears to have a good future for the Tigers.
Quinn Johnson is a former linebacker and punishing fullback who helps pave the way for the ferocious ground attack the Tigers bring out every Saturday. Though he had no carries in 2007 and caught just 2 passes for 18 yards, his contributions should not be overlooked. Jordan is a smart player and another bruiser who doesn't get the ball much (4 carries), but has started 2 of the last 3 games and could be the man to start against the Buckeyes.
RB Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus Ohio State RBs
Hester: 204/1017 yards, 11 TDs, 5.0 YPC; 14 rec/106 yards, 1 TD, 7.6 YPR
Williams: 68/458 yards, 6 TDs, 6.7 YPC; 8 rec/114 yards, 1 TD, 14.3 YPR
Holliday: 50/351 yards, 2 TDs, 7.0 YPC; 2 rec/3 yards, 0 TDs, 1.5 YPR
C Wells: 254/1463 yards, 14 TDs, 5.8 YPC; 5 rec/21 yards, 0 TDs, 4.2 YPR
M Wells: 103/367 yards, 3 TDs, 3.6 YPC; 10 rec/47 yards, 1 TD, 4.7 YPR
Saine: 60/267 yards, 2 TDs, 4.5 YPC: 9 rec/91 yards, 1 TD, 10.1 YPR
Hester is a warrior who carried his team on his back at times this season. The same can certainly be said of Wells, who at the end of the season actually carried the Buckeyes more extensively on his shoulders. Both players are "ground and pound" backs with deceptive speed that can run over players in the secondary and outrun linebackers. Hester finished the season strong, with 3 100 yard games and 4 TDs in the final 4 contests. Wells finished the season on a rampage, cracking 100 yards 4 times and gaining over 220 yards twice while scoring 8 TDs in the final 5 games. It is clear that without these two players, these teams are not in the title games, but Wells gets the edge for his phenomenal stretch and his 2 monster games. On the flip side, the Tigers get the edge in depth and options off the bench, as their extra players contributed significantly throughout the season. Maurice Wells and Saine have proven to be significant contributors in stretches as well for the Buckeyes. The trio of sophomores gives the Tigers a myriad of gameplan strategies that will give the Buckeyes a lot to think about, and they will probably use their backups with more frequency and regularity. Overall, both squads have a stellar front man and enough depth and talent to compete with anyone in the country at the position, so this one is too close to call.
Edge: Even
Wide Receivers
WR #1 Brandon LaFell (6-3, 205, SO, Lamar HS, Houston, TX)
WR #9 Early Doucet (6-1, 210, SR, St. Martinville HS, St. Martinville, LA)
WR #2 Demetrius Byrd (6-2, 195, JR, Miami Central HS, Miami, FL)
The Tigers have battled injuries at this position at times this year, but they are incredibly deep and talented at the receiver spots, posing a particularly challenging day for any secondary. Leading the way statistically was LaFell, still a young player with good size and speed. Though he crossed the 100 yard receiving mark just once, early in the season against Virginia Tech (7 catches, 125 yards), he has been a consistent contributor, catching at least 3 passes in 11 games. His highlights include 76 yards against Tulane, a rushing TD against Middle Tennessee, 6 catches for 73 yards in the big win over Florida, 5 catches for 80 yards and a score against Louisiana Tech, and 65 yards in the SEC Title game. His height makes him an attractive red zone target, though he caught just 3 TD passes this season.
Early Doucet missed significant time with injury (5 games), but still managed to lead the team with 50 catches in just 8 games, in 7 of which he caught at least 5 passes. He has been a veteran leader for the team and ranks in the career top 10 at LSU in several statistical categories. He opened the season with 2 impressive games (9 catches, 78 yards, TD against Mississippi State, and 6 catches, 75 yards, TD against Virginia Tech) before missing the next 5 games (though he was in on one play against Kentucky). He returned to the lineup with a flurry, catching 7 passes for 93 yards against Auburn and scoring 2 TDs against Alabama. He also caught 8 passes against Mississippi and 7 against Arkansas. He is a tough receiver who has played through a good deal of pain to have a successful season, setting a good example and providing a good deal of leadership for the younger players at the position along the way. He undoubtedly will be a favorite target for the Tigers in the bowl game.
Byrd is a burner who transferred from junior college and made a huge impact, ranking 2nd on the team with 593 receiving yards and leading the team with 7 TDs. Though his contributions have been sporadic, they have been very big, as evidenced by his impressive YPR and his 7 TD receptions. His breakout came when he caught 2 passes for 86 yards and a TD against Middle Tennessee. He then caught 3 for 69 against Tulane, scored a TD against Florida, and had a monster two week stretch where he caught 3 passes for 89 yards and a TD against Auburn (the game-winner) and caught 6 passes for 144 yards and a score against Alabama. He also had very good games leading into the bowl game, as he caught 6 passes for 46 yards and 2 scores against Arkansas and followed that with 4 receptions for 72 yards and a score in the SEC Title game. A big play threat, watch for him to be the primary deep option in the bowl game.
Other players to watch for are the Mitchells, Jared (#87) and Chris (#86) who combined for 18 catches this season and each have starting experience. Another intriguing player for the Tigers is Terrance Toliver (#80), a blazing freshman who has seen some limited action but had 119 yards receiving against Middle Tennessee en route to 24.3 yards per catch and 3 TDs on the season on the way to being named freshman All-SEC by the coaches.
WR Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus Ohio State WRs
LaFell: 48 catches, 641 yards, 3 TDs, 13.4 YPR
Byrd: 33 catches, 593 yards, 7 TDs, 18.0 YPR
Doucet: 50 catches, 474 yards, 4 TDs, 9.5 YPR
Robiskie: 50 catches, 885 yards, 10 TDs, 17.7 YPR
Hartline: 46 catches, 619 yards, 5 TDs, 13.5 YPR
Small: 19 catches, 253 yards, 2 TDs, 13.3 YPR
This is another position battle that is intriguing to match up. Doucet missed significant time to injury but still had a productive season, and LaFell was a steady contributor. Byrd emerged as the big play threat. On the Buckeye side, Robiskie was the primary downfield option and Hartline made several key catches down the stretch as well. Small emerged as a good 3rd option in what had started as basically a 2 receiver offense for the Buckeyes. The Buckeye passing game struggled down the stretch, but the receivers are still as dangerous as they were when the passing game was peaking at mid-season and both were contributing significantly. The Tigers have several good options but none who dominated the scene consistently. Neither team got particularly big contributions from the players down the chart, though the edge there would have to go to the Tigers with Toliver. This is a close contest, but give the edge to the Tigers if all the players are healthy.
Edge: Louisiana State
Tight Ends
TE #82 Richard Dickson (6-3, 235, SO, Ocean Springs HS, Ocean Springs, MS)
TE #89 Keith Zinger (6-4, 250, SR, Leesville HS, Leesville, LA)
Dickson and Zinger are interchangeable parts in the sense that they both start and have plenty of experience, but both have differing primary strengths. Zinger has 32 career starts at TE, and is primarily a bulldozer of a blocker in the daunting running game, and he has caught only 2 passes this season. His starts this season include games against Mississippi State, Virginia Tech, Florida, Kentucky, Auburn, Alabama, and the SEC title game. Dickson on the other hand is more of a threat in the passing game, ranking 4th on the team and having 28 catches and 3 TDs this season. He has 14 career starts and started the Middle Tennessee, Tulane, Louisiana Tech, Mississippi, and Arkansas games. His biggest game was against Arkansas at the end of the season, when he caught 5 passes for 69 yards. Whichever player officially starts, both play extensively and contribute valuably to the offense.
TE Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus Ohio State TEs
Dickson: 28 catches, 331 yards, 3 TDs, 11.8 YPR
Zinger: 2 catches, 33 yards, 0 TDs, 16.5 YPR
Nicol: 16 catches, 84 yards, 0 TDs, 5.3 YPR
Ballard: 13 catches, 149 yards, 2 TDs, 11.5 YPR
These units are both solid in most respects. Dickson can be a dangerous downfield weapon in the passing game, and Ballard emerged as a similar threat as the season progressed for the Buckeyes. Nicol is a quality and veteran player who is a solid blocker with good fundamentals, which can also be said of Zinger. Both of these units will probably be most critical to the success of the running games, though a big pass reception at a crucial time could make the difference in an important drive as well. Both units are solid, so call it even.
Edge: Even
Offensive Line
LT #70 Ciron Black (6-5, 320, SO, Robert E. Lee HS, Tyler, TX)
LG #79 Herman Johnson (6-7, 356, JR, Denton HS, Olla, LA)
C #74 Brett Helms (6-2, 270, JR, Stuttgart HS, Stuttgart, AR)
RG #65 Lyle Hitt (6-2, 299, SO, Parkview Baptist HS, Baton Rouge, LA)
RT #71 Carnell Stewart (6-5, 320, SR, John Curtis HS, River Ridge, LA)
This line is very physical and very talented. Incredibly, every single player went through the regular season starting every single game save one, where Ryan Miller (#63; 6-6, 302, JR, Barbe HS, Lake Charles, LA) started one game against Kentucky at right guard in place of Hitt. Otherwise, the entire starting lineup was intact all season, remarkable considering the pounding that the line takes week after week on any team.
The left side of the line is very strong, very big, and very capable of both run and pass blocking. Ciron Black had a stellar season and was named offensive player of the week for the Tigers against Tulane and was named honorable mention All-SEC by the AP and 2nd team All-SEC by the coaches. He is only a sophomore but has started 26 games already in his very promising career and protects the blind side very well. Herman "The House" Johnson is a certified monster on the left side of the interior. He has gone from being the "baby bulldozer" (he was the largest recorded baby in Louisiana, according to the media guide) to starting 21 consecutive games in his college career and was named offensive player of the game for the Tigers against Ole Miss and 2nd team All-SEC by the AP, 1st team by the coaches. Manning the middle is Helms, who moved over from guard in the spring of 2006 and has 25 career starts. He was in on over 90% of the Tigers' plays this season. He was also named the Tigers' offensive player of the game against Middle Tennessee State. Helms isn't as big as his counterparts, so he relies on mobility, footwork, and enhanced technique to anchor the middle of the line. He was also an honorable mention All-SEC pick by the AP. On the right side, the veteran Stewart led the team during the regular season by playing in 98.1% of the team's plays, and has been a stalwart after finally getting the opportunity to start this season. Hitt won a wide open race in fall camp at right guard and has made the most of his opportunity, adequately manning his position while gaining valuable experience. This line is big and tough, has good technique, but most importantly has a great deal of experience playing alongside each other, so the continuity of their blocking schemes is very, very impressive.
The line is relatively thin behind the stellar top 5. The Tigers do have a high caliber reserve in Miller, an extremely versatile player who has the only other start this season at RG and is the top backup at all 3 interior line spots. A pair of promising freshman tackles, Jarvis Jones (#76, 6-7, 294) and Joseph Barksdale (#78, 6-4, 310) are the backups on the outside but have played sparingly.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus Ohio State OL
Both of these lines do a very good job at run blocking and also can protect the quarterback effectively. Both teams are very solid in their fundamentals, have some headline-quality players, and are especially effective road-grating for running backs, especially in the 2nd half of games. The key to the title game will be the play of the lines, as both quarterbacks will need adequate time to throw and will need the running games to be effective to open up the passing attack since both teams are run-first-oriented offenses. Depth could be an issue for either team if a significant injury is sustained, particularly at tackle, but short of that both lines should be very effective and make life miserable for the opposing front seven. The ultimate indication of which line is better, most likely along with the result of the game itself, will be determined on the field by these two units. For now, given the dramatic recent success of the Buckeye rushing attack and the Tigers' continuity, it is too close to call.
Edge: Even
Overall Offensive Analysis
The numbers demonstrate that this is a quality offense with stellar amounts of production and excellent balance between the pass and the run. There is plenty of speed and talent at the skill positions, and the line is very solid and has played together all season. Clearly they've been a handful for every team they've played, and the Buckeyes will be no different. The ability (or lack thereof, depending) to run the ball early with Hester and complete some high-percentage throws to the receivers early will probably set the tone one way or the other for the Tigers. They have the ability to run a base offense, send in multiple formations, and have a seemingly limitless amount of talent on the bench at the skill positions to bring in to change things up, spell a starter, or run a special play at a critical time. The Tigers are a big play offense, so the Buckeyes will need to force them to earn their points with long and sustained drives. They will also have to penetrate the line to put some pressure on the QB and put the Tigers in some 3rd and long situations. When the Tigers are dictating the pace, with a lot of quality rushing early and a lot of 2nd and 3rd and short situations, they are deadly at moving the chains and taking some shots downfield. It will be up to the Buckeyes to counteract this, and that will be the key to the game for the defense.
Overall Offensive Rating: A-
2007-08 LSU Tigers Defensive Preview
Returning Starters: 8
The BCS Championship game will mark the last time the Tigers line up and play for Defensive Coordinator Bo Pelini, a former Ohio State Free Safety (and Senior Co-Captain (1990)), who has accepted the Nebraska Head Coaching job. Pelini was hired in 2005 and took a LSU defense that was already among the best in the nation and made it even better. Bringing an aggressive attacking style to the 4-3, Pelini's first Tiger group finished 3rd in the nation in total defense (266.8 yards per game), scoring defense (14.2 points per game) and pass defense efficiency (96.3 rating). LSU also ranked No. 6 in the nation in rush defense (91.5 yards per game).
The Tigers followed up that performance with an outstanding 2006 unit which was again number 3 in the nation in total defense (242.8 yards per game), pass defense (45.7 yards per game) and pass efficiency defense (92.2 rating), and number 4 in scoring defense (12.6 points per game). The Tigers had streaks of 16 and 10 quarters without allowing an opponent a trip to the endzone, limiting opponents to a measly 27 first quarter points (and 87 first half points) the entire season. The 242.8 yards allowed per game was the fewest surrendered by a LSU D since 1976 which allowed a paltry 233.1. The highly rated secondary gave up only 145.7 yards passing which marked the fewest yards since the 1990 Tigers allowed only 126.8 yards per game.
The 2007 unit has no shortage of NFL caliber athletes, including arguably the best defensive player in college football regardless of position, DT Glenn Dorsey. Despite health problems the Tigers still ranked among the nations elite in several defensive categories, including 3rd in total defense (283.8 yards per game) and pass efficiency defense (96.16 rating), and No. 9 in pass defense (180.8 yards per game). The Tigers gave up 103.1 yards per game on the ground, good for 14th in the land. Inflated by two triple overtime games (Losses to Kentucky and Arkansas), the Tigers gave up 19.6 points a game, 20th in the land. Forgiving those contests, LSU only allowed 14.7 per game, shutting out 2 opponents and keeping 5 to 10 points or less, including ACC Champ Virginia Tech which managed 7 points against a healthy LSU.
The Tigers have 21 picks to their credit resulting in 245 return yards (1 TD) along with 12 fumble recoveries. The Tigers have sacked the quarterback 32 times for 246 yards (2.5 per game, 34th in the nation) and have 6.0 TFLs per game (71st in the nation). LSU's 3rd down Defense has been very good, holding opponents to a 36% conversion rate (68 of 189 chances). However, the Tigers have not been particularly solid when teams get inside their 20, allowing 30 of 35 chances to go for points (86%), 22 of which were touchdowns (63%).
Ohio State enters the Championship game as the leader in the nation in the following categories: Total Defense (225.3), Passing Efficiency (94.0), Scoring (10.7) and Passing Defense (148.2). They are 3rd in the nation in Rushing Defense (77.0). The Buckeyes are tied for third in the nation in sacks with 3.5 per game (42 total for 270 yards) and are 6th in the nation in TFLs with 8.3 per game. Outstanding on 3rd down, the Buckeyes have afforded only a 31% conversion rate (58 of 189 chances) while picking of 10 passes for 178 yards (2 TDs) and recovering 8 fumbles for 33 yards (1 TD). In the red zone, opponents have converted 13 of only 17 chances (76%), 8 of which were touchdowns (47%).
Defensive Line
LE #93 Tyson Jackson (6-5 289 JR)
LT #72 Glenn Dorsey (6-2 300 SR)
RT #99 Marlon Favorite (6-1 310 JR)
RE #49 Kirston Pittman (6-4 254 SR)
The defensive line is anchored by Dorsey who brought home the Lombardi, the Outland, the Lott and the Nagurski awards this year, even though he played hurt since taking a particularly nasty chop block in the Auburn game. It goes without saying that Dorsey is a force. He is all but certain to be a top 5 pick in the NFL draft and could very well go #1 overall depending on what the Dolphins decide they need most. He has 64 Tackles, 11.5 for loss, 6 sacks along with 4 pass break ups and 4 hurries. Beside him on the inside is Favorite who has 28 Tackles and 1 TFL with 5 hurries in 10 games replacing Charles Alexander who was lost for the year in the Virginia Tech game. Tyson Jackson has the size and speed to play at the next level and has had an outstanding junior year, resulting in 35 Tackles, 3.5 TFL, 2.5 sacks along with an impressive 10 pass break-ups and 15 hurries. Kirston Pittman had an injury plagued 2005 and 2006, but showed excellent skill as a speed rusher. He's played in each of LSU's 13 games this year and lived up to his potential recording a D-Line leading 61 tackles, 12.5 TFLs, 7 sacks, while picking off a pass, breaking up one and recording 14 hurries.
The D-line rotation includes Ends; #47 Tremaine Johnson (6-2 263 JR), #84 Rahim Alem (6-3 252 SO), #95 Pep Levingston (6-4 258 FR) (13), and #90 Ricky Jean-Francois (6-1 281 SO) and Tackles; #91 Charles Alexander (6-3 295 JR) (2) and #97 Al Woods (6-5 325 SO). In 12 games, Johnson has recorded 11 Tackles, 1.5 for loss with a sack and 3 hurries. Alem has played in 11 games, has 8 Tackles, 4 TFLs with 2 Sacks, 1 hurry and a forced fumble. Levingston saw action in every contest, recording 8 Tackles, 1.5 TFLs and a sack. Jean-Francois was suspended the entire season with the exception of the SEC Championship game. All but un-blockable on the LSU Scout team, he recorded 3 tackles against Tennessee. He may see himself starting the BCS Championship game. Woods played in 11 games, recording 22 Tackles, 2 sacks a hurry and 3 fumble recoveries. Alexander, lost after the Virginia Tech game may be well enough to see action against Ohio State.
DL Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus OSU DL
Vernon Gholston - 34 Tackles, 14.5 TFLs, 13 Sacks, 1 fumble recovery (TD, 25 yrds)
Doug Worthington - 22 Tackles, 2 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 INT, 1 FF
Dexter Larimore - 15 Tackles, 5.5 TFLs, 2 Sacks, 1 fumble rec.
Cam Heyward - 30 Tackles, 9.0 TFLs, 2.5 Sacks, 2 Breakups, 1 FF
Also in the rotation are Robert Rose, Todd Denlinger, Nadar Abdallah and possibly Lawrence Wilson. Wilson was the starting Defensive End opposite Gholston to begin the year, but was injured in the opening game of the year against Youngstown State. He may see action on January 7. The Ohio State line, while not recording as many tackles as the Tiger line has recorded more tackles behind the line of scrimmage. Gholston, like Dorsey, can expect to play on Sundays next year. Heyward has had a superb Freshman season, filling in more than adequately for the injured Wilson. He should anticipate post season honors coming his way in the very near future. As the rushing yards against attest, as well as the TFLs, the Ohio State line has performed extremely well this year. While a healthy LSU line is probably slightly more talented, the Ohio State group has out performed the LSU line this season. When LSU has the ball, they should attack Ohio State in the middle, where Illinois had success and where Ohio State is less stout. Conversely, when Ohio State has the ball they should try staying away from the middle with Dorsey stacking things up. While the LSU interior line is better than Ohio State's, the Ohio State ends get the nod over the Tigers ends. These lines will represent the best each team has faced this year. While the Buckeyes lead the nation in rushing yards and are better at getting in to the backfield statistically, this match-up is a push owing to LSU having been bitten by the injury bug this year and should be healthier come January 7.
Edge: Even, to slight edge, LSU
Linebackers
OLB #35 Luke Sanders (6-4 222 SR)
MLB #48 Darry Beckwith (6-1 225 JR)
WLB #7 Ali Highsmith (6-1 225 SR)
LSU's LBs are an experienced group, with each being a returning starter this season. Ali Highsmith has had an excellent Senior campaign, leading the LBs with 93 Tackles, 7.5 TFLs an 1.5 sacks along with a fumble recovery. Highsmith, a Butkus semifinalist a year ago, has great speed on the weak side and is able in coverage. Beckwith was the leading LB returnee coming in to this season and has found a home on the inside. Troubled by a knee injury this season, Beckwith missed two games. However, he finished 2007 with 63 Tackles, 6.5 for loss, 1.5 sacks, a fumble recovery and a pick. On the outside, Sanders recorded 28 Tackles with 1.5 TFLs, half a sack and a fumble recovery playing in each of LSU's 13 games this year.
The Backups are #56 Perry Riley (6-1 220 SO), #11 Kelvin Sheppard (6-3 220 FR), #54 Jacob Cutrera (6-4 225 SO). Riley has played in all 13 games, recording 22 tackles, 1.5 TFLs and half a sack, while Sheppard has 21 tackles and 2 TFLs, also in 13 games. Cutrera has played in 11 games, has 21 tackles, 1.5 for loss and an interception.
LB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus OSU LBs
James Laurinaitis - 103 Tackles, 8.5 for loss, 5 Sacks, 2 INT, 1 Fumble Rec.
Marcus Freeman - 95 Tackles, 9.5 for loss, 1.5 Sacks
Larry Grant - 43 Tackles, 9.5 TFLs, 5 Sacks, 1 INT, 2 blocked kicks
As has been the case all year long, there are few LB corps who can match up with the Buckeyes unit. Laurinaitis added more career hardware, collecting the 2007 Butkus award for his excellent junior season. He will be the best LB on the field on January 7. Marcus Freeman has been outstanding since the light went on for him about mid-season. In the loss to the Illini, Freeman set a career mark for tackles with 18. Like Laurinaitis, a junior, Freeman will test his draft status after the Championship game. Whether he goes or not, he has got next level talent. Grant has the fewest tackles, but is tied for most TFLs and sacks among LBs. He provides excellent quickness as his two blocks attest. While the weakest of the three Ohio State LBs, he would no doubt start on most teams in America. Austin Spitler, Brian Rolle and Tyler Moeller provide depth, with Rolle being particularly active on Special Teams.
While LSU's LBs are surely among the best in the nation, and certainly one of the SEC's finer units, the Buckeyes corps has to get the nod here. Again, Lil Animal will be the best LB on the field, the equivalent to Ohio State's LBs as Dorsey is to LSU's D-Line. Perhaps it's scheme related, or perhaps rotation related, Ohio State's starting LBs have a clear statistical advantage and get the edge here.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #21 Chevis Jackson (6-0 185 SR)
WS #27 Curtis Taylor (6-3 196 JR)
SS #16 Craig Steltz (6-2 205 SR)
LCB #19 Jonathan Zenon (6-1 175 SR)
The secondary is lead by All American Craig Steltz, the team leading tackler with 97 and team leader in INTs with 6. He has also recorded 5 TFLs, a sack and a fumble recovery. Expected to step up with the loss of LaRon Landry and Jessie Daniels from the 06 squad, Steltz has met the challenge. Taylor left spring with a bum shoulder, but has been adequate in place of the departed Landry. He has 49 Tacks, a sack, 2 picks and a fumble recovery this season. Manning one corner in the speedy and hard hitting Chevis Jackson, a next level talent. He is second on the team with 4 picks, has 15 pass breakups and 42 tackles. Things don't get much easier on the other side where Zenon has 3 picks, a fumble recovery and 41 tackles.
Backup Corners #29 Chris Hawkins (6-1 180 SO), and #4 Jai Eugene (6-0 175 FR) have played in 12 and 11 games respectively, with Hawkins recording 13 Tackles and Eugene 7. Both are tremendous athletes, with excellent speed. Eugene, nearly a Michigan signee, will be expected to step up for the departing Chevis Jackson in 2008. Safety depth is provided by #43 Harry Coleman (6-3 225 SO) and #44 Danny McCray (6-1 205 SO). Coleman has played in 12 games, recording 15 Tackes, 0.5 for loss. Meanwhile McCray - who is the first DB off the bench (nickel), is the leading reserve with 61 Tackles, 4 for loss, 3 sacks, 2 picks and a fumble recovery in 13 games. Only a Sophomore, McCray is quickly establishing himself as the next outstanding LSU Safety.
DB Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus OSU DBs
Malcolm Jenkins - 44 Tackles, 5 TFLs, 3 INTs (1 TD), 3 BrUp
Donald Washington - 34 Tackles, 2 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 INT (TD), 2 BrUp, Fumble Rec.
Anderson Russell - 58 Tackles, 7 TFL, 3 Sacks, 5 BrUp
Kurt Coleman - 54 Tackles, 3.5 TFLs, 1 Sack, 4 BrUp
In terms of individual numbers, the Buckeyes do not have a DB who can match Steltz's production. Indeed, the tackle statistics establish that the LSU secondary is making far more stops than the Buckeyes. However, that's not necessarily a good thing. Likewise, the Tigers have 11 more interceptions than the Buckeyes. That said, Malcolm Jenkins will be the best corner on the field in New Orleans. The LSU DBs are more willing to take chances than are the Buckeyes. Ohio State leads the nation in pass defense and efficiency pass defense, rarely ever getting beat for a big play, content to keep things in front of them. That's not to say the Buckeyes are passive, but comparative to LSU's philosophy they take far less chances. Both units are very very good, and an argument can be made for either unit being superior. Ohio State has the overall team numbers advantage, where LSU sports better individual statistics from the same postions. That being the case, we'll call this match-up even.
Edge: Even
Overall Defensive Analysis
LSU will be the most complete defense Ohio State has faced this season, and it's not even close. When healthy the Tigers are as impressive as any unit in the nation, as the demolition of Virginia Tech early in the year attests. That said, Virginia Tech isn't exactly an offensive juggernaut. While Ohio State isn't necessarily one either, they are more able than the Hokies. The Tigers have given up more points than they would prefer this season, but two triple over time games have skewed those numbers some. While the Tigers have battled injury troubles in 2007, they remained among the top of the national statistics in a number of categories, and should come in to the Championship game well rested and healthy. If the Tigers play up to their potential, and assuming Ohio State does as well, the yards will be near impossible to come by for either team. That makes the game a field position battle and could mean this one comes down to coaching. If that happens, we'll put odds on Tressel.
Overall Defensive Rating: A-
The BCS Championship game will mark the last time the Tigers line up and play for Defensive Coordinator Bo Pelini, a former Ohio State Free Safety (and Senior Co-Captain (1990)), who has accepted the Nebraska Head Coaching job. Pelini was hired in 2005 and took a LSU defense that was already among the best in the nation and made it even better. Bringing an aggressive attacking style to the 4-3, Pelini's first Tiger group finished 3rd in the nation in total defense (266.8 yards per game), scoring defense (14.2 points per game) and pass defense efficiency (96.3 rating). LSU also ranked No. 6 in the nation in rush defense (91.5 yards per game).
The Tigers followed up that performance with an outstanding 2006 unit which was again number 3 in the nation in total defense (242.8 yards per game), pass defense (45.7 yards per game) and pass efficiency defense (92.2 rating), and number 4 in scoring defense (12.6 points per game). The Tigers had streaks of 16 and 10 quarters without allowing an opponent a trip to the endzone, limiting opponents to a measly 27 first quarter points (and 87 first half points) the entire season. The 242.8 yards allowed per game was the fewest surrendered by a LSU D since 1976 which allowed a paltry 233.1. The highly rated secondary gave up only 145.7 yards passing which marked the fewest yards since the 1990 Tigers allowed only 126.8 yards per game.
The 2007 unit has no shortage of NFL caliber athletes, including arguably the best defensive player in college football regardless of position, DT Glenn Dorsey. Despite health problems the Tigers still ranked among the nations elite in several defensive categories, including 3rd in total defense (283.8 yards per game) and pass efficiency defense (96.16 rating), and No. 9 in pass defense (180.8 yards per game). The Tigers gave up 103.1 yards per game on the ground, good for 14th in the land. Inflated by two triple overtime games (Losses to Kentucky and Arkansas), the Tigers gave up 19.6 points a game, 20th in the land. Forgiving those contests, LSU only allowed 14.7 per game, shutting out 2 opponents and keeping 5 to 10 points or less, including ACC Champ Virginia Tech which managed 7 points against a healthy LSU.
The Tigers have 21 picks to their credit resulting in 245 return yards (1 TD) along with 12 fumble recoveries. The Tigers have sacked the quarterback 32 times for 246 yards (2.5 per game, 34th in the nation) and have 6.0 TFLs per game (71st in the nation). LSU's 3rd down Defense has been very good, holding opponents to a 36% conversion rate (68 of 189 chances). However, the Tigers have not been particularly solid when teams get inside their 20, allowing 30 of 35 chances to go for points (86%), 22 of which were touchdowns (63%).
Ohio State enters the Championship game as the leader in the nation in the following categories: Total Defense (225.3), Passing Efficiency (94.0), Scoring (10.7) and Passing Defense (148.2). They are 3rd in the nation in Rushing Defense (77.0). The Buckeyes are tied for third in the nation in sacks with 3.5 per game (42 total for 270 yards) and are 6th in the nation in TFLs with 8.3 per game. Outstanding on 3rd down, the Buckeyes have afforded only a 31% conversion rate (58 of 189 chances) while picking of 10 passes for 178 yards (2 TDs) and recovering 8 fumbles for 33 yards (1 TD). In the red zone, opponents have converted 13 of only 17 chances (76%), 8 of which were touchdowns (47%).
Defensive Line
LE #93 Tyson Jackson (6-5 289 JR)
LT #72 Glenn Dorsey (6-2 300 SR)
RT #99 Marlon Favorite (6-1 310 JR)
RE #49 Kirston Pittman (6-4 254 SR)
The defensive line is anchored by Dorsey who brought home the Lombardi, the Outland, the Lott and the Nagurski awards this year, even though he played hurt since taking a particularly nasty chop block in the Auburn game. It goes without saying that Dorsey is a force. He is all but certain to be a top 5 pick in the NFL draft and could very well go #1 overall depending on what the Dolphins decide they need most. He has 64 Tackles, 11.5 for loss, 6 sacks along with 4 pass break ups and 4 hurries. Beside him on the inside is Favorite who has 28 Tackles and 1 TFL with 5 hurries in 10 games replacing Charles Alexander who was lost for the year in the Virginia Tech game. Tyson Jackson has the size and speed to play at the next level and has had an outstanding junior year, resulting in 35 Tackles, 3.5 TFL, 2.5 sacks along with an impressive 10 pass break-ups and 15 hurries. Kirston Pittman had an injury plagued 2005 and 2006, but showed excellent skill as a speed rusher. He's played in each of LSU's 13 games this year and lived up to his potential recording a D-Line leading 61 tackles, 12.5 TFLs, 7 sacks, while picking off a pass, breaking up one and recording 14 hurries.
The D-line rotation includes Ends; #47 Tremaine Johnson (6-2 263 JR), #84 Rahim Alem (6-3 252 SO), #95 Pep Levingston (6-4 258 FR) (13), and #90 Ricky Jean-Francois (6-1 281 SO) and Tackles; #91 Charles Alexander (6-3 295 JR) (2) and #97 Al Woods (6-5 325 SO). In 12 games, Johnson has recorded 11 Tackles, 1.5 for loss with a sack and 3 hurries. Alem has played in 11 games, has 8 Tackles, 4 TFLs with 2 Sacks, 1 hurry and a forced fumble. Levingston saw action in every contest, recording 8 Tackles, 1.5 TFLs and a sack. Jean-Francois was suspended the entire season with the exception of the SEC Championship game. All but un-blockable on the LSU Scout team, he recorded 3 tackles against Tennessee. He may see himself starting the BCS Championship game. Woods played in 11 games, recording 22 Tackles, 2 sacks a hurry and 3 fumble recoveries. Alexander, lost after the Virginia Tech game may be well enough to see action against Ohio State.
DL Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus OSU DL
Vernon Gholston - 34 Tackles, 14.5 TFLs, 13 Sacks, 1 fumble recovery (TD, 25 yrds)
Doug Worthington - 22 Tackles, 2 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 INT, 1 FF
Dexter Larimore - 15 Tackles, 5.5 TFLs, 2 Sacks, 1 fumble rec.
Cam Heyward - 30 Tackles, 9.0 TFLs, 2.5 Sacks, 2 Breakups, 1 FF
Also in the rotation are Robert Rose, Todd Denlinger, Nadar Abdallah and possibly Lawrence Wilson. Wilson was the starting Defensive End opposite Gholston to begin the year, but was injured in the opening game of the year against Youngstown State. He may see action on January 7. The Ohio State line, while not recording as many tackles as the Tiger line has recorded more tackles behind the line of scrimmage. Gholston, like Dorsey, can expect to play on Sundays next year. Heyward has had a superb Freshman season, filling in more than adequately for the injured Wilson. He should anticipate post season honors coming his way in the very near future. As the rushing yards against attest, as well as the TFLs, the Ohio State line has performed extremely well this year. While a healthy LSU line is probably slightly more talented, the Ohio State group has out performed the LSU line this season. When LSU has the ball, they should attack Ohio State in the middle, where Illinois had success and where Ohio State is less stout. Conversely, when Ohio State has the ball they should try staying away from the middle with Dorsey stacking things up. While the LSU interior line is better than Ohio State's, the Ohio State ends get the nod over the Tigers ends. These lines will represent the best each team has faced this year. While the Buckeyes lead the nation in rushing yards and are better at getting in to the backfield statistically, this match-up is a push owing to LSU having been bitten by the injury bug this year and should be healthier come January 7.
Edge: Even, to slight edge, LSU
Linebackers
OLB #35 Luke Sanders (6-4 222 SR)
MLB #48 Darry Beckwith (6-1 225 JR)
WLB #7 Ali Highsmith (6-1 225 SR)
LSU's LBs are an experienced group, with each being a returning starter this season. Ali Highsmith has had an excellent Senior campaign, leading the LBs with 93 Tackles, 7.5 TFLs an 1.5 sacks along with a fumble recovery. Highsmith, a Butkus semifinalist a year ago, has great speed on the weak side and is able in coverage. Beckwith was the leading LB returnee coming in to this season and has found a home on the inside. Troubled by a knee injury this season, Beckwith missed two games. However, he finished 2007 with 63 Tackles, 6.5 for loss, 1.5 sacks, a fumble recovery and a pick. On the outside, Sanders recorded 28 Tackles with 1.5 TFLs, half a sack and a fumble recovery playing in each of LSU's 13 games this year.
The Backups are #56 Perry Riley (6-1 220 SO), #11 Kelvin Sheppard (6-3 220 FR), #54 Jacob Cutrera (6-4 225 SO). Riley has played in all 13 games, recording 22 tackles, 1.5 TFLs and half a sack, while Sheppard has 21 tackles and 2 TFLs, also in 13 games. Cutrera has played in 11 games, has 21 tackles, 1.5 for loss and an interception.
LB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus OSU LBs
James Laurinaitis - 103 Tackles, 8.5 for loss, 5 Sacks, 2 INT, 1 Fumble Rec.
Marcus Freeman - 95 Tackles, 9.5 for loss, 1.5 Sacks
Larry Grant - 43 Tackles, 9.5 TFLs, 5 Sacks, 1 INT, 2 blocked kicks
As has been the case all year long, there are few LB corps who can match up with the Buckeyes unit. Laurinaitis added more career hardware, collecting the 2007 Butkus award for his excellent junior season. He will be the best LB on the field on January 7. Marcus Freeman has been outstanding since the light went on for him about mid-season. In the loss to the Illini, Freeman set a career mark for tackles with 18. Like Laurinaitis, a junior, Freeman will test his draft status after the Championship game. Whether he goes or not, he has got next level talent. Grant has the fewest tackles, but is tied for most TFLs and sacks among LBs. He provides excellent quickness as his two blocks attest. While the weakest of the three Ohio State LBs, he would no doubt start on most teams in America. Austin Spitler, Brian Rolle and Tyler Moeller provide depth, with Rolle being particularly active on Special Teams.
While LSU's LBs are surely among the best in the nation, and certainly one of the SEC's finer units, the Buckeyes corps has to get the nod here. Again, Lil Animal will be the best LB on the field, the equivalent to Ohio State's LBs as Dorsey is to LSU's D-Line. Perhaps it's scheme related, or perhaps rotation related, Ohio State's starting LBs have a clear statistical advantage and get the edge here.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #21 Chevis Jackson (6-0 185 SR)
WS #27 Curtis Taylor (6-3 196 JR)
SS #16 Craig Steltz (6-2 205 SR)
LCB #19 Jonathan Zenon (6-1 175 SR)
The secondary is lead by All American Craig Steltz, the team leading tackler with 97 and team leader in INTs with 6. He has also recorded 5 TFLs, a sack and a fumble recovery. Expected to step up with the loss of LaRon Landry and Jessie Daniels from the 06 squad, Steltz has met the challenge. Taylor left spring with a bum shoulder, but has been adequate in place of the departed Landry. He has 49 Tacks, a sack, 2 picks and a fumble recovery this season. Manning one corner in the speedy and hard hitting Chevis Jackson, a next level talent. He is second on the team with 4 picks, has 15 pass breakups and 42 tackles. Things don't get much easier on the other side where Zenon has 3 picks, a fumble recovery and 41 tackles.
Backup Corners #29 Chris Hawkins (6-1 180 SO), and #4 Jai Eugene (6-0 175 FR) have played in 12 and 11 games respectively, with Hawkins recording 13 Tackles and Eugene 7. Both are tremendous athletes, with excellent speed. Eugene, nearly a Michigan signee, will be expected to step up for the departing Chevis Jackson in 2008. Safety depth is provided by #43 Harry Coleman (6-3 225 SO) and #44 Danny McCray (6-1 205 SO). Coleman has played in 12 games, recording 15 Tackes, 0.5 for loss. Meanwhile McCray - who is the first DB off the bench (nickel), is the leading reserve with 61 Tackles, 4 for loss, 3 sacks, 2 picks and a fumble recovery in 13 games. Only a Sophomore, McCray is quickly establishing himself as the next outstanding LSU Safety.
DB Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Louisiana State versus OSU DBs
Malcolm Jenkins - 44 Tackles, 5 TFLs, 3 INTs (1 TD), 3 BrUp
Donald Washington - 34 Tackles, 2 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 INT (TD), 2 BrUp, Fumble Rec.
Anderson Russell - 58 Tackles, 7 TFL, 3 Sacks, 5 BrUp
Kurt Coleman - 54 Tackles, 3.5 TFLs, 1 Sack, 4 BrUp
In terms of individual numbers, the Buckeyes do not have a DB who can match Steltz's production. Indeed, the tackle statistics establish that the LSU secondary is making far more stops than the Buckeyes. However, that's not necessarily a good thing. Likewise, the Tigers have 11 more interceptions than the Buckeyes. That said, Malcolm Jenkins will be the best corner on the field in New Orleans. The LSU DBs are more willing to take chances than are the Buckeyes. Ohio State leads the nation in pass defense and efficiency pass defense, rarely ever getting beat for a big play, content to keep things in front of them. That's not to say the Buckeyes are passive, but comparative to LSU's philosophy they take far less chances. Both units are very very good, and an argument can be made for either unit being superior. Ohio State has the overall team numbers advantage, where LSU sports better individual statistics from the same postions. That being the case, we'll call this match-up even.
Edge: Even
Overall Defensive Analysis
LSU will be the most complete defense Ohio State has faced this season, and it's not even close. When healthy the Tigers are as impressive as any unit in the nation, as the demolition of Virginia Tech early in the year attests. That said, Virginia Tech isn't exactly an offensive juggernaut. While Ohio State isn't necessarily one either, they are more able than the Hokies. The Tigers have given up more points than they would prefer this season, but two triple over time games have skewed those numbers some. While the Tigers have battled injury troubles in 2007, they remained among the top of the national statistics in a number of categories, and should come in to the Championship game well rested and healthy. If the Tigers play up to their potential, and assuming Ohio State does as well, the yards will be near impossible to come by for either team. That makes the game a field position battle and could mean this one comes down to coaching. If that happens, we'll put odds on Tressel.
Overall Defensive Rating: A-
Predictions
BB73's prediction: 26-23 (OT), Ohio State
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 28-21, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 41-14, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 24-21, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 24-20, Ohio State
Hubbard's prediction: ??, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 24-23, Ohio State
OSUBucks22's prediction: 27-23, Ohio State
OSUsushichic's prediction: 31-27, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 31-28, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (OSU 14 - Michigan 3)
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.)
197 - OSUSushichic's prediction: 28-24, Ohio State (14 + 21 = 35 + 162 last week) (0, 29, 15, 22, 14, 18, 9, 14, 1, 5, 28, 35)
202 - DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State (10 + 10 = 20 + 182 last week) (11, 14, 10, 12, 21, 22, 9, 8, 18, 14, 43, 20)
206 - OSUBucks22's: 31-20, Ohio State (17 + 17 = 34 + 172 last week) (1, 19, 10, 18, 15, 18, 7, 18, 24, 11, 31, 34)
223 - Buckeyeryn's prediction: 28-21, Ohio State (14 + 18 = 32 + 191 last week) (7, 25, 14, 40, 11, 22, 17, 10, 13, 14, 18, 32)
225 - BB73's prediction: 35-31, Ohio State (21 + 28 = 49 + 176 last week) (4, 29, 9, 23, 17, 27, 10, 10, 18, 15, 24, 49)
225 - 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 27-24, Ohio State (13 + 21 = 34 + 191 last week) (2, 22, 18, 28, 17, 23, 13, 14, 23, 8, 33, 34)
234 - daddyphatsac's prediction: 27-13, Ohio State (13 + 10 = 23 + 211 last week) (7, 22, 12, DNP (40), DNP (22), 28, 9, 7, 21, 15, 28, 23)
238 - jwinslow's prediction: 31-24, Ohio State (17 + 21 = 38 + 200 last week) (10, 30, 15, 25, 19, DNP (28), 15, 13, 21, 1, 23, 38)
245 - Hubbard's prediction: 27-26, Ohio State (13 + 23 = 36 + 209 last week) (0, 33, 17, 25, 14, 21, 21, 15, 34, 14, 25, 36)
258 - Bucklion's prediction: 24-23, Ohio State (10 + 20 = 30 + 228 last week) (17, 22, 16, 27, 22, 28, 13, 11, 18, 11, DNP, 30)
262 - Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 34-17, Ohio State (20 + 14 = 34 + 228 last week) (16, 33, 10, 28, 19, 25, 17, 21, 13, 11, 35, 34)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed:
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 28-21, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 41-14, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 24-21, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 24-20, Ohio State
Hubbard's prediction: ??, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 24-23, Ohio State
OSUBucks22's prediction: 27-23, Ohio State
OSUsushichic's prediction: 31-27, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 31-28, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (OSU 14 - Michigan 3)
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.)
197 - OSUSushichic's prediction: 28-24, Ohio State (14 + 21 = 35 + 162 last week) (0, 29, 15, 22, 14, 18, 9, 14, 1, 5, 28, 35)
202 - DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State (10 + 10 = 20 + 182 last week) (11, 14, 10, 12, 21, 22, 9, 8, 18, 14, 43, 20)
206 - OSUBucks22's: 31-20, Ohio State (17 + 17 = 34 + 172 last week) (1, 19, 10, 18, 15, 18, 7, 18, 24, 11, 31, 34)
223 - Buckeyeryn's prediction: 28-21, Ohio State (14 + 18 = 32 + 191 last week) (7, 25, 14, 40, 11, 22, 17, 10, 13, 14, 18, 32)
225 - BB73's prediction: 35-31, Ohio State (21 + 28 = 49 + 176 last week) (4, 29, 9, 23, 17, 27, 10, 10, 18, 15, 24, 49)
225 - 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 27-24, Ohio State (13 + 21 = 34 + 191 last week) (2, 22, 18, 28, 17, 23, 13, 14, 23, 8, 33, 34)
234 - daddyphatsac's prediction: 27-13, Ohio State (13 + 10 = 23 + 211 last week) (7, 22, 12, DNP (40), DNP (22), 28, 9, 7, 21, 15, 28, 23)
238 - jwinslow's prediction: 31-24, Ohio State (17 + 21 = 38 + 200 last week) (10, 30, 15, 25, 19, DNP (28), 15, 13, 21, 1, 23, 38)
245 - Hubbard's prediction: 27-26, Ohio State (13 + 23 = 36 + 209 last week) (0, 33, 17, 25, 14, 21, 21, 15, 34, 14, 25, 36)
258 - Bucklion's prediction: 24-23, Ohio State (10 + 20 = 30 + 228 last week) (17, 22, 16, 27, 22, 28, 13, 11, 18, 11, DNP, 30)
262 - Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 34-17, Ohio State (20 + 14 = 34 + 228 last week) (16, 33, 10, 28, 19, 25, 17, 21, 13, 11, 35, 34)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed:
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