2010 Purdue Boilermakers Game Preview
written by: BB73, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, Bucky Katt, DaddyBigBucks, JCOSU86, and jwinslow
written by: BB73, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, Bucky Katt, DaddyBigBucks, JCOSU86, and jwinslow
Preface
Last year at Purdue, the Buckeyes were attempting to tie the all-time record of 17 straight Big Ten conference road wins, set by TSUN from 1988-92. After a momentum-ending non-fumble on a Kurt Coleman strip, some turnovers caused by Ryan Kerrigan's pressure and some bad decisions by Terrelle Pryor, and an effective quick passing game for the Boilermakers, the streak was over.
Last year's upset, along with the loss of the #1 ranking in Madison last week, should have the Buckeyes primed for Saturday's noon kickoff, anxious to get some payback and right the ship. Although tOSU has had some injury issues this season, they'll get no sympathy from Purdue, who have lost several key members on offense. Details of those who are missing can be found in the 'Offensive' section of this preview.
The Boilermakers named Danny Hope to succeed Joe Tiller as head football coach after the 2008 season, in the same manner that Wisconsin designated Bret Bielema prior to Barry Alvarez's final season. Danny Hope was the O-Line coach during the first 5 years of the Tiller era at Purdue, then was briefly the offensive coordinator at Louisville before leaving in 2002 to become the head man as his alma mater, Eastern Kentucky.
After winning the home opener against Toledo last year, Hope's Boilermakers dropped 5 straight games before upsetting the Buckeyes last year. They finished 4-4 in the conference, but a 5-7 overall record kept them from playing in a bowl. This year they stand at 4-2 overall, and currently sit above tOSU at 2-0 in the Big Ten standings.
Joe Tiller was one of only three head coaches since World War II to have a winning record at Purdue. Jack Mollenkopf went 84-39-9 (.670) from 1956 through 1969, and his 1968 team held the #1 ranking until they were downed 13-0 in Columbus, by the SuperSoph led team that went on to win a National Championship. Jim Young's teams went 38-19-1 (.664) from 1977 through 1981, before he went to coach Army. But none of the head men will ever threaten the career the mark of Knowlton "Snake" Ames, who went 12-0 in 1891-92.
In the 15 years prior to Tiller's arrival, Purdue's overall record was 54-107-5 (.340). During his 12 seasons, Tiller had a mark of 87-62 (.584), and led the Boilers to 10 of their 15 bowl appearances. He's now watching football and enjoying fishing, at least until it gets colder in Wyoming, based on what he said before retiring: "When I'm done coaching at Purdue, my wife and I will return to Wyoming. Many people don't understand the weather in Wyoming, but it's clear and still - the snow is clear up to your butt and still coming down."
Purdue's highest final ranking in the major polls is a #5 spot in 1943. That 9-0 mark under Elmer Burnham is one of two perfect records they've had since 1900, the other being an 8-0 record in 1929, the last year under Jimmy Phelan.
They had a strong run in the late '60s, finishing 6th, 9th, and 10th respectively in 1966, '67, and '68. Their only other top-10 finish was a 10th place spot in the final poll of the 1979 season. Their 10-2 record that year marks the only time the program has ever had a 10-win season.
Their only outright Big Ten championship was in 1929. They have shared 7 other conference titles, with the Drew Brees team that went to the Rose Bowl after the 2000 season being the only one since 1967.
The Boilermakers are 5-25-2 all-time in games played in Columbus. They also claim another win in the state of Ohio due to their 30-7 victory in Cleveland in 1943. In West Lafayette, Purdue is 7-12 against the Buckeyes, including last year's upset and a memorable win in 2000 (Drew Brees to Seth Morales) that sent them to the Rose Bowl. In between those two games was the 'Holy Buckeye' game of 2002, where a late fourth down bomb was immortalized by Brent Musburger.
In the 2008 game in Columbus, Curtis Paiinter became only the fourth quarterback in Big Ten history to pass for over 10,000 yards. Before his career ended, he surpassed Northwestern's Brett Basanez (10,580) and Iowa's Chuck Long (10,461), and his final total of 11,195 passing yards trails only fellow Boiler Drew Brees (11,792),
Painter is now holding a clipboard for the Colts, and was just another in a long line of successful QBs at Purdue, following in the footsteps of Bob DeMoss, Len Dawson, Bob Griese, Mike Phipps, Gary Danielson, Mark Herrmann, Jim Everett, and Brees. Freshman Rob Henry, although more of a running threat than most of his predecessors, has quite a legacy to try to live up to.
Date and TimeLast year's upset, along with the loss of the #1 ranking in Madison last week, should have the Buckeyes primed for Saturday's noon kickoff, anxious to get some payback and right the ship. Although tOSU has had some injury issues this season, they'll get no sympathy from Purdue, who have lost several key members on offense. Details of those who are missing can be found in the 'Offensive' section of this preview.
The Boilermakers named Danny Hope to succeed Joe Tiller as head football coach after the 2008 season, in the same manner that Wisconsin designated Bret Bielema prior to Barry Alvarez's final season. Danny Hope was the O-Line coach during the first 5 years of the Tiller era at Purdue, then was briefly the offensive coordinator at Louisville before leaving in 2002 to become the head man as his alma mater, Eastern Kentucky.
After winning the home opener against Toledo last year, Hope's Boilermakers dropped 5 straight games before upsetting the Buckeyes last year. They finished 4-4 in the conference, but a 5-7 overall record kept them from playing in a bowl. This year they stand at 4-2 overall, and currently sit above tOSU at 2-0 in the Big Ten standings.
Joe Tiller was one of only three head coaches since World War II to have a winning record at Purdue. Jack Mollenkopf went 84-39-9 (.670) from 1956 through 1969, and his 1968 team held the #1 ranking until they were downed 13-0 in Columbus, by the SuperSoph led team that went on to win a National Championship. Jim Young's teams went 38-19-1 (.664) from 1977 through 1981, before he went to coach Army. But none of the head men will ever threaten the career the mark of Knowlton "Snake" Ames, who went 12-0 in 1891-92.
In the 15 years prior to Tiller's arrival, Purdue's overall record was 54-107-5 (.340). During his 12 seasons, Tiller had a mark of 87-62 (.584), and led the Boilers to 10 of their 15 bowl appearances. He's now watching football and enjoying fishing, at least until it gets colder in Wyoming, based on what he said before retiring: "When I'm done coaching at Purdue, my wife and I will return to Wyoming. Many people don't understand the weather in Wyoming, but it's clear and still - the snow is clear up to your butt and still coming down."
Purdue's highest final ranking in the major polls is a #5 spot in 1943. That 9-0 mark under Elmer Burnham is one of two perfect records they've had since 1900, the other being an 8-0 record in 1929, the last year under Jimmy Phelan.
They had a strong run in the late '60s, finishing 6th, 9th, and 10th respectively in 1966, '67, and '68. Their only other top-10 finish was a 10th place spot in the final poll of the 1979 season. Their 10-2 record that year marks the only time the program has ever had a 10-win season.
Their only outright Big Ten championship was in 1929. They have shared 7 other conference titles, with the Drew Brees team that went to the Rose Bowl after the 2000 season being the only one since 1967.
The Boilermakers are 5-25-2 all-time in games played in Columbus. They also claim another win in the state of Ohio due to their 30-7 victory in Cleveland in 1943. In West Lafayette, Purdue is 7-12 against the Buckeyes, including last year's upset and a memorable win in 2000 (Drew Brees to Seth Morales) that sent them to the Rose Bowl. In between those two games was the 'Holy Buckeye' game of 2002, where a late fourth down bomb was immortalized by Brent Musburger.
In the 2008 game in Columbus, Curtis Paiinter became only the fourth quarterback in Big Ten history to pass for over 10,000 yards. Before his career ended, he surpassed Northwestern's Brett Basanez (10,580) and Iowa's Chuck Long (10,461), and his final total of 11,195 passing yards trails only fellow Boiler Drew Brees (11,792),
Painter is now holding a clipboard for the Colts, and was just another in a long line of successful QBs at Purdue, following in the footsteps of Bob DeMoss, Len Dawson, Bob Griese, Mike Phipps, Gary Danielson, Mark Herrmann, Jim Everett, and Brees. Freshman Rob Henry, although more of a running threat than most of his predecessors, has quite a legacy to try to live up to.
Date: Saturday, October 23rd, 2010
Time: Noon ET Kick-off
Location: Ohio Stadium - "The Horseshoe" (Columbus, OH)
Constructed: 1922 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 102,329 (Originally 66,210)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events:
Time: Noon ET Kick-off
Location: Ohio Stadium - "The Horseshoe" (Columbus, OH)
Constructed: 1922 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 102,329 (Originally 66,210)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events:
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: BTN: Eric Collins (Play-by-play), Chris Martin (Analysis), and Charissa Thompson (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (FM 97.1 TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
2010 Purdue Boilermakers Offensive Preview
Well the Wisconsin offense proved to be too much for the Buckeyes on Saturday both early and late, and they fell for the first time this season. This week, they play a game that has plenty of interesting storylines. There is little doubt that the Boilermakers will have the attention of the Buckeyes, who are coming off of a loss to Purdue last year and a loss last week. Purdue, on the other hand, has weathered an injury storm that would have sunk most programs, and remains in contention for a bowl game, which is a testament to the team and the coaching staff. The injuries to top players at all of the major skill positions have allowed some younger players to step up, including a dual threat QB who does not fit the traditional Purdue mold. The interesting aspects of this one include that Purdue has managed to keep themselves in contention for a bowl game despite the injuries, they have beaten previously unbeaten Northwestern for one of their 2 Big Ten wins, and also that this game features one of the teams in first place in the Big Ten, and it isn't Ohio State. Offensive coordinator Gary Nord, former WAC coach of the year at UTEP in 2000, has done a fabulous job adjusting to all of the player turnover, and the offensive line has been the one constant throughout the whole process. The offense isn't killing teams, but it is getting the job done when it counts, and that's all that matters in conference play.
Of course Purdue is not exactly denting the scoreboard, which is to be expected given all of their injuries and growing pains. They rank just 72nd nationally at 361.5 yards per game overall. They have been pretty good running the football (202.3 YPG, 27th), but have not had the same success, or virtually any success throwing it, averaging just 168.3 YPG, ranked 106th nationally. This is quite a turnaround from the previous decade, when Purdue was throwing the ball all over the field. The Boilers are scoring just 22.5 points a game, ranking them T86 in the nation with UCLA. They have thrown plenty of picks (7) but have lost only 3 fumbles on the year, which is an improvement. They've also only taken 8 sacks, which has helped them to have 3rd and manageable situations more frequently. However Purdue has just 114 first downs (T78) and have converted just 36.7% of their 3rd down opportunities (73rd). Despite these underwhelming statistics and the loss of more key players than most programs could absorb, they sit atop the Big Ten at 2-0, 4-2 overall, which is a testament to the coaching staff and on offense, the line for keeping the team together through the turmoil.
Of course Purdue is not exactly denting the scoreboard, which is to be expected given all of their injuries and growing pains. They rank just 72nd nationally at 361.5 yards per game overall. They have been pretty good running the football (202.3 YPG, 27th), but have not had the same success, or virtually any success throwing it, averaging just 168.3 YPG, ranked 106th nationally. This is quite a turnaround from the previous decade, when Purdue was throwing the ball all over the field. The Boilers are scoring just 22.5 points a game, ranking them T86 in the nation with UCLA. They have thrown plenty of picks (7) but have lost only 3 fumbles on the year, which is an improvement. They've also only taken 8 sacks, which has helped them to have 3rd and manageable situations more frequently. However Purdue has just 114 first downs (T78) and have converted just 36.7% of their 3rd down opportunities (73rd). Despite these underwhelming statistics and the loss of more key players than most programs could absorb, they sit atop the Big Ten at 2-0, 4-2 overall, which is a testament to the coaching staff and on offense, the line for keeping the team together through the turmoil.
Quarterbacks
QB #15 Rob Henry (6-2, 200, FR, Trinity Catholic HS, Ocala, FL)
Henry wasn't expected to have to assume the mantle of starting QB this quickly, but a season-ending injury to Robert Marve thrust him into the lineup. Marve had been somewhat effective, completing almost 70% of his passes for 512 yards, but had thrown 4 picks as the team dropped 2 of its first 4 games. Henry's effectiveness as a passer is not as developed thus far, but he makes up for that with his fleet feet in the ground game, where he is currently the team's leading rusher. Henry's first significant action came against Ball State, where he went 3 of 6 for 89 yards and a TD and chipped in 10 carries for 65 yards. The following week against Toledo he took over full-time after Marve's injury, and went 17 of 31 for 141 yards and a TD, while rushing 13 times for 67 yards. He made his first start against Northwestern in Evanston, a tough assignment for any young player. He struggled mightily throwing the ball, completing just 6 of 18 for 47 yards and an INT, but he gained 132 yards on the ground in 16 attempts and added a TD as the Boilermakers picked up the dramatic road win. Last week against Minnesota he had his moments both throwing and running, as he completed 13 of 20 for 163 yards with a TD and an INT and he gained just 57 yards on the ground in 17 carries but scored 3 TDs, as he led the Boilers to a second straight conference win over the Gophers which led to the firing of the Minnesota head coach. He is averaging 5.6 yards per pass attempt and 5.6 yard per carry, so despite some accuracy issues he is able to move the ball throwing and running. He can be prone to bad throws, however, so it will be imperative for the Buckeyes to pressure him and force him into some stressful situations.
The backup is true freshman Sean Robinson (#10). He has barely found the library on campus as the cliche goes, much less attempted a pass. Justin Siller (#2), a converted QB who now plays WR, is also on the roster but is currently injured.
QB Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State QBs
Henry (2 starts): 40/79 (50.6%), 443 yards, 3 TDs, 3 INTs, 102.7 rating; 64/356, 4 TDs
Pryor: 118/181 (65.2%), 1505 yards, 15 TDs, 4 INTs, 158.0 rating; 75/410, 3 TDs
This one is obviously no comparison, but Henry does appear to possess the grittiness and intangibles that could make him an effective college QB, especially in the modern day game. He needs to continue to refine his passing skills and advance his decision-making process, but he is tough and capable and has already shown he has what it takes to lead his team to grind out some tough conference wins. The Buckeyes cannot take him lightly despite his relative inexperience. He does have almost as many rushing yards as Pryor has on the season. Purdue also has zero depth after the Marve injury.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
TB #25 Dan Dierking (5-10, 195, SR, Wheaton Warrenville HS, Wheaton, IL)
This is skill position #2 where the Boilers have lost their top player, as Ralph Bolden was injured before the season started. He gained 935 yards and scored 9 TDs last season. Not only has Bolden been gone, but the other players have all been injured at one time or another, such that several WRs (Edison, Ross) have actually had to fill in at RB on the season at some point. As of right now, the Boilers have 3 healthy tailbacks, including Dierking, who leads the position with 353 yards. He has carried the ball very sparingly the previous 3 seasons, as he played mostly fullback and special teams, but he is now getting his chance to man the position as a senior due to the injuries and is a team co-captain. His highlights include 102 yards and 2 TDs on 14 carries against Western Illinois and 12 carries for 126 yards last week against Minnesota.
The primary backup is fellow senior Keith Carlos (#1), a former WR, who caught 21 passes for 242 yards last season. He is a bit bigger than Dierking (6-1, 200) and has some burst. He has 7 carries in each of the past 3 games, and gained 64 yards against Northwestern. He will probably have a similar role on Saturday. Also in reserve is sophomore Al-Terek McBurse (#5). He is of similar size to the other players (6-0, 195) and had 81 yards and a TD against Western Illinois on just 5 carries. He has played sparingly recently, however. WR Antavian Edison (#13, see below) had 15 carries for 102 yards in 2 games in the middle of the season (Ball State, Toledo) when he was pressed into service because of injury. FB Jared Crank (#48) is a powerful runner but he has been battling significant injuries.
RB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State RBs
Dierking: 57/353 yards, 3 TDs, 6.2 YPC; 11 rec/83 yards, 1 TD, 7.5 YPR
Carlos: 21/129 yards, 0 TDs, 6.1 YPC; 1 rec/7 yards, 0 TDs, 7.0 YPR
McBurse: 14/93 yards, 1 TD, 6.6 YPC; 0 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
Herron: 96/446 yards, 9 TDs, 4.6 YPC; 10 rec/123 yards, 0 TDs, 12.3 YPR
Saine: 44/183 yards, 2 TDs, 4.2 YPC; 14 rec/174 yards, 4 TDs, 12.4 YPR
At first glance this appears to be a bit of a "rag-tag" bunch that has been pieced together and pressed into service because of all the injuries. However a closer look reveals that the top 3 backs are averaging over 6 yards a carry and all have had games where they have shown the ability to be effective with the ball. Dierking especially has also chipped in 11 receptions and a TD through the air, so he has made the most of his opportunities. All of the backs are of similar size and running style, but they have all been pretty effective for an offense going through so much transition. For the Buckeyes, Herron has taken over the primary tailback duties in recent weeks, while Saine has been relegated to more of a receiving threat. Hall and Berry have played sparingly, but one wonders how long that will last. Thus Ohio State has tremendous depth, whereas saying depth is a concern to a team that had to move 3 WRs to RB this year at times would be a tragic understatement.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #7 Cortez Smith (6-2, 180, SR, Hooks HS, Hooks, TX)
WR #13 Antavian Edison (5-11, 175, SO, Dunbar HS, Fort Myers, FL)
WR #4 O.J. Ross (5-10, 175, FR, Mainland HS, Ormond Beach, FL)
Here is yet another position where Purdue lost their best player, as Keith Smith was injured just 2 games into the season after catching 18 passes for 123 yards. Thus the rest of the players have had to not only weather changing roles on the team but also a new QB with less experience and less consistency in the passing game. Cortez Smith leads the team with 220 yards on 17 catches, but as expected his production has been sporadic. He had 5 receptions for 117 yards against Ball State but has only caught 4 passes total the past 3 games. Edison was switched to RB in the middle of the first half, but he did break out with 5 receptions for 64 yards and his first TD last week against Minnesota so it appears that his role might be expanding. Freshman Ross is a burner who can get open for a big play. He had a 36-yard reception against Ball State and caught 2 passes for 60 yards last week. He also filled in at RB for a spell.
Junior Justin Siller (#2) was also a regular contributor and arguably the team's #2 or #3 receiver before being injured. He had 12 receptions for 104 yards and a TD in the first 4 games. In his absence, the reserves are junior Waynelle Gravesande (#3) and a pair of freshmen, Xavier Reese (#80) and Gary Bush (#6). Only Bush has caught a pass, as he has 1 reception in each of the previous 3 games.
WR Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State WRs
C. Smith: 17 catches, 220 yards, 2 TDs, 12.9 YPR
Ross: 10 catches, 146 yards, 1 TD, 14.6 YPR
Edison: 9 catches, 80 yards, 1 TD, 8.9 YPR
Sanzenbacher: 33 catches, 505 yards, 7 TDs, 15.3 YPR
Posey: 30 catches, 402 yards, 3 TDs, 13.4 YPR
It is relatively difficult to judge this group because of all the upheaval in the passing game. It is unclear how good any of these players really are, as they don't get the opportunities that the Buckeye receivers get with Pryor. The loss of Smith obviously is a huge blow, and the loss of Siller should not be discounted either. Depth is a problem for both teams, but the Buckeyes have the quality at the top.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE #85 Kyle Adams (6-4, 251, SR, Westlake HS, Austin, TX)
Finally here is a position where the Boilers have quality and depth. Adams broke out in the passing game last year, catching 29 passes for 249 yards. He has 20 receptions this season already and will be a safety valve for the inexperienced QB. He has just 3 receptions combined the past 2 weeks but he could be more of a factor this weekend. He has good size and is also a capable blocker.
Speaking of blocking, the backup is fellow senior Jeff Lindsay (#88). He has similar build and experience as Adams, though he has caught just 4 passes after grabbing 16 last season. He is a fine blocker and will play a lot as a reserve and in 2 TE sets.
TE Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State TEs
Adams: 20 catches, 122 yards, 0 TDs, 6.1 YPR
Stoneburner: 9 catches, 110 yards, 1 TD, 12.2 YPR
The Boilers utilize their TEs quite a bit in the passing game and will use more double sets now that they run the ball more. Adams and Lindsay have been around the program for quite a while and are leaders on the team. Both can block and go over the middle to make a tough catch on 3rd down.
Edge: Purdue
Offensive Line
LT #68 Dennis Kelly (6-8, 301, JR, Marian Catholic HS, Chicago Heights, IL)
LG #72 Justin Pierce (6-4, 320, SR, Tom Bean HS, Tom Bean, TX)
C #67 Peters Drey (6-6, 300, SO, McGill Toolen HS, Mobile, AL)
RG #73 Ken Plue (6-7, 358, JR, Milford Academy HS, Rensselaer, NY)
RT #62 Nick Mondek (6-5, 300, JR, Naperville Central HS, Naperville, IL)
The line has been the one constant in the season for Purdue, and they have reinforced the old adage that "it starts up front" and that you can be competitive if you are strong in the line. Of the 6 players Purdue has on offense with double digit starts in their career, 3 are on the line, and 2 more are starting for the first time this season but have started all 6 games. Plue is a gargantuan guard who leads the offense in career starts with 23, including all 12 games last year and 5 thus far this season. He was named honorable mention all-conference by the coaches last season and is a force in the interior. He did not start last week due to academic struggles, though he did play, so he appears to have a few issues, but is listed at the top of the chart this week. He is their most physical and experienced lineman. On the left side, Kelly has started 18 games, all in a row starting at the beginning of last season. His height actually makes him agile for his weight, and he is a converted TE from high school, so he has some athleticism. He is also a smart player, as he was academic all-conference last season. In the middle, Drey has started all 6 games after moving from tackle in the spring. Mondek moved over from defensive tackle after playing sparingly for 2 seasons. He and Drey appear to be entrenched at their positions and have made seamless transitions. Pierce has started 14 games sporadically throughout his career, mostly at RG. He switched to LG this season and is another physical presence in the interior. Collectively, this line as a whole has been much more valuable than the sum of its parts. They have allowed only 5 sacks and have learned on the fly to block for an entirely different set of skill players since the start of the spring. They have gelled well together and are underrated run blockers.
The reserves include few players with any experience. Sophomore Rick Schmeig (#76) has 2 career starts, including one last week in place of Plue. He received the team's Most Improved award in spring practice and will be a player to keep an eye on going forward. Senior Ryan Prater is the backup at LT and junior James Shepherd (#63) is the reserve RG. Neither player saw any action prior to this season. Freshman Trevor Foy (#78) moved from DE and is the backup at RT and could factor into the future. Andrew Brewer (#79) and Austen Moret (#65) also man the middle, but have played very sparingly. If there are any significant injuries, the Boilermakers are probably in trouble ... but then again where have they heard that before?
OL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State OL
It is hard not to admire what the Boilermaker line has accomplished in this season of injury to virtually every significant skill player. They have blocked through different QBs with styles not often seen at Purdue, WRs playing at RB, different passing schemes, and no continuity in the backfield whatsoever. Through it all, they have played their assignments well and kept their team in the ballgame every week. There are unlikely to be any massive 300 yard passing days or 200 yard rushing days, but they have played solidly all season and will likely continue to do so. The Buckeyes have been average for their talent level, which is very high. It is always hard to pinpoint why a line doesn't gel like it should, but they had a very hard time during the first half last week and have had stretches like that throughout the season. Purdue has been maximizing what they have...they deserve ample credit for that. The area they suffer in is quality and/or experienced depth, though the injury bug has thus far avoided the line. It had better continue to do so, because the loss of 1 or 2 players could send the Boilers on a downward spiral they will be unable to recover from.
Edge: Even
Overall Offensive Analysis
This offense is a shell of Purdue offenses of the past decade or so, but give the players left standing immense credit for hanging in there, staying competitive, and winning their first 2 conference games. Gary Nord has done an outstanding job and should be commended for adjusting to losses that would cripple most teams beyond repair. Any team can lose a skill guy or even two, but take away a team's starting QB, RB, WR, and top reserve WR, and most teams wouldn't be able to overcome it. But Danny Hope and his team have not only refused to use it as an excuse, they've actually gotten better as the season has progressed and willed a few victories with grit and determination. The Buckeyes will be up for this game and should have no trouble slowing down Purdue for most of the afternoon, but they had better keep contain on Henry and cover Smith downfield, or they could give up some big plays. It's hard to see Dierking beating them much, but the TE can be a weapon in the passing game and the RBs have plenty of experience when called upon. If Purdue's defense keeps them close, they have the confidence of the past few weeks and last year's victory to draw on to make a play or two down the stretch. Is it likely? No, but don't count them out either...look what happened last year when many fans did.
Overall Offensive Rating: C+
2010 Purdue Boilermakers Defensive PreviewQB #15 Rob Henry (6-2, 200, FR, Trinity Catholic HS, Ocala, FL)
Henry wasn't expected to have to assume the mantle of starting QB this quickly, but a season-ending injury to Robert Marve thrust him into the lineup. Marve had been somewhat effective, completing almost 70% of his passes for 512 yards, but had thrown 4 picks as the team dropped 2 of its first 4 games. Henry's effectiveness as a passer is not as developed thus far, but he makes up for that with his fleet feet in the ground game, where he is currently the team's leading rusher. Henry's first significant action came against Ball State, where he went 3 of 6 for 89 yards and a TD and chipped in 10 carries for 65 yards. The following week against Toledo he took over full-time after Marve's injury, and went 17 of 31 for 141 yards and a TD, while rushing 13 times for 67 yards. He made his first start against Northwestern in Evanston, a tough assignment for any young player. He struggled mightily throwing the ball, completing just 6 of 18 for 47 yards and an INT, but he gained 132 yards on the ground in 16 attempts and added a TD as the Boilermakers picked up the dramatic road win. Last week against Minnesota he had his moments both throwing and running, as he completed 13 of 20 for 163 yards with a TD and an INT and he gained just 57 yards on the ground in 17 carries but scored 3 TDs, as he led the Boilers to a second straight conference win over the Gophers which led to the firing of the Minnesota head coach. He is averaging 5.6 yards per pass attempt and 5.6 yard per carry, so despite some accuracy issues he is able to move the ball throwing and running. He can be prone to bad throws, however, so it will be imperative for the Buckeyes to pressure him and force him into some stressful situations.
The backup is true freshman Sean Robinson (#10). He has barely found the library on campus as the cliche goes, much less attempted a pass. Justin Siller (#2), a converted QB who now plays WR, is also on the roster but is currently injured.
QB Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State QBs
Henry (2 starts): 40/79 (50.6%), 443 yards, 3 TDs, 3 INTs, 102.7 rating; 64/356, 4 TDs
Pryor: 118/181 (65.2%), 1505 yards, 15 TDs, 4 INTs, 158.0 rating; 75/410, 3 TDs
This one is obviously no comparison, but Henry does appear to possess the grittiness and intangibles that could make him an effective college QB, especially in the modern day game. He needs to continue to refine his passing skills and advance his decision-making process, but he is tough and capable and has already shown he has what it takes to lead his team to grind out some tough conference wins. The Buckeyes cannot take him lightly despite his relative inexperience. He does have almost as many rushing yards as Pryor has on the season. Purdue also has zero depth after the Marve injury.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
TB #25 Dan Dierking (5-10, 195, SR, Wheaton Warrenville HS, Wheaton, IL)
This is skill position #2 where the Boilers have lost their top player, as Ralph Bolden was injured before the season started. He gained 935 yards and scored 9 TDs last season. Not only has Bolden been gone, but the other players have all been injured at one time or another, such that several WRs (Edison, Ross) have actually had to fill in at RB on the season at some point. As of right now, the Boilers have 3 healthy tailbacks, including Dierking, who leads the position with 353 yards. He has carried the ball very sparingly the previous 3 seasons, as he played mostly fullback and special teams, but he is now getting his chance to man the position as a senior due to the injuries and is a team co-captain. His highlights include 102 yards and 2 TDs on 14 carries against Western Illinois and 12 carries for 126 yards last week against Minnesota.
The primary backup is fellow senior Keith Carlos (#1), a former WR, who caught 21 passes for 242 yards last season. He is a bit bigger than Dierking (6-1, 200) and has some burst. He has 7 carries in each of the past 3 games, and gained 64 yards against Northwestern. He will probably have a similar role on Saturday. Also in reserve is sophomore Al-Terek McBurse (#5). He is of similar size to the other players (6-0, 195) and had 81 yards and a TD against Western Illinois on just 5 carries. He has played sparingly recently, however. WR Antavian Edison (#13, see below) had 15 carries for 102 yards in 2 games in the middle of the season (Ball State, Toledo) when he was pressed into service because of injury. FB Jared Crank (#48) is a powerful runner but he has been battling significant injuries.
RB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State RBs
Dierking: 57/353 yards, 3 TDs, 6.2 YPC; 11 rec/83 yards, 1 TD, 7.5 YPR
Carlos: 21/129 yards, 0 TDs, 6.1 YPC; 1 rec/7 yards, 0 TDs, 7.0 YPR
McBurse: 14/93 yards, 1 TD, 6.6 YPC; 0 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
Herron: 96/446 yards, 9 TDs, 4.6 YPC; 10 rec/123 yards, 0 TDs, 12.3 YPR
Saine: 44/183 yards, 2 TDs, 4.2 YPC; 14 rec/174 yards, 4 TDs, 12.4 YPR
At first glance this appears to be a bit of a "rag-tag" bunch that has been pieced together and pressed into service because of all the injuries. However a closer look reveals that the top 3 backs are averaging over 6 yards a carry and all have had games where they have shown the ability to be effective with the ball. Dierking especially has also chipped in 11 receptions and a TD through the air, so he has made the most of his opportunities. All of the backs are of similar size and running style, but they have all been pretty effective for an offense going through so much transition. For the Buckeyes, Herron has taken over the primary tailback duties in recent weeks, while Saine has been relegated to more of a receiving threat. Hall and Berry have played sparingly, but one wonders how long that will last. Thus Ohio State has tremendous depth, whereas saying depth is a concern to a team that had to move 3 WRs to RB this year at times would be a tragic understatement.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #7 Cortez Smith (6-2, 180, SR, Hooks HS, Hooks, TX)
WR #13 Antavian Edison (5-11, 175, SO, Dunbar HS, Fort Myers, FL)
WR #4 O.J. Ross (5-10, 175, FR, Mainland HS, Ormond Beach, FL)
Here is yet another position where Purdue lost their best player, as Keith Smith was injured just 2 games into the season after catching 18 passes for 123 yards. Thus the rest of the players have had to not only weather changing roles on the team but also a new QB with less experience and less consistency in the passing game. Cortez Smith leads the team with 220 yards on 17 catches, but as expected his production has been sporadic. He had 5 receptions for 117 yards against Ball State but has only caught 4 passes total the past 3 games. Edison was switched to RB in the middle of the first half, but he did break out with 5 receptions for 64 yards and his first TD last week against Minnesota so it appears that his role might be expanding. Freshman Ross is a burner who can get open for a big play. He had a 36-yard reception against Ball State and caught 2 passes for 60 yards last week. He also filled in at RB for a spell.
Junior Justin Siller (#2) was also a regular contributor and arguably the team's #2 or #3 receiver before being injured. He had 12 receptions for 104 yards and a TD in the first 4 games. In his absence, the reserves are junior Waynelle Gravesande (#3) and a pair of freshmen, Xavier Reese (#80) and Gary Bush (#6). Only Bush has caught a pass, as he has 1 reception in each of the previous 3 games.
WR Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State WRs
C. Smith: 17 catches, 220 yards, 2 TDs, 12.9 YPR
Ross: 10 catches, 146 yards, 1 TD, 14.6 YPR
Edison: 9 catches, 80 yards, 1 TD, 8.9 YPR
Sanzenbacher: 33 catches, 505 yards, 7 TDs, 15.3 YPR
Posey: 30 catches, 402 yards, 3 TDs, 13.4 YPR
It is relatively difficult to judge this group because of all the upheaval in the passing game. It is unclear how good any of these players really are, as they don't get the opportunities that the Buckeye receivers get with Pryor. The loss of Smith obviously is a huge blow, and the loss of Siller should not be discounted either. Depth is a problem for both teams, but the Buckeyes have the quality at the top.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE #85 Kyle Adams (6-4, 251, SR, Westlake HS, Austin, TX)
Finally here is a position where the Boilers have quality and depth. Adams broke out in the passing game last year, catching 29 passes for 249 yards. He has 20 receptions this season already and will be a safety valve for the inexperienced QB. He has just 3 receptions combined the past 2 weeks but he could be more of a factor this weekend. He has good size and is also a capable blocker.
Speaking of blocking, the backup is fellow senior Jeff Lindsay (#88). He has similar build and experience as Adams, though he has caught just 4 passes after grabbing 16 last season. He is a fine blocker and will play a lot as a reserve and in 2 TE sets.
TE Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State TEs
Adams: 20 catches, 122 yards, 0 TDs, 6.1 YPR
Stoneburner: 9 catches, 110 yards, 1 TD, 12.2 YPR
The Boilers utilize their TEs quite a bit in the passing game and will use more double sets now that they run the ball more. Adams and Lindsay have been around the program for quite a while and are leaders on the team. Both can block and go over the middle to make a tough catch on 3rd down.
Edge: Purdue
Offensive Line
LT #68 Dennis Kelly (6-8, 301, JR, Marian Catholic HS, Chicago Heights, IL)
LG #72 Justin Pierce (6-4, 320, SR, Tom Bean HS, Tom Bean, TX)
C #67 Peters Drey (6-6, 300, SO, McGill Toolen HS, Mobile, AL)
RG #73 Ken Plue (6-7, 358, JR, Milford Academy HS, Rensselaer, NY)
RT #62 Nick Mondek (6-5, 300, JR, Naperville Central HS, Naperville, IL)
The line has been the one constant in the season for Purdue, and they have reinforced the old adage that "it starts up front" and that you can be competitive if you are strong in the line. Of the 6 players Purdue has on offense with double digit starts in their career, 3 are on the line, and 2 more are starting for the first time this season but have started all 6 games. Plue is a gargantuan guard who leads the offense in career starts with 23, including all 12 games last year and 5 thus far this season. He was named honorable mention all-conference by the coaches last season and is a force in the interior. He did not start last week due to academic struggles, though he did play, so he appears to have a few issues, but is listed at the top of the chart this week. He is their most physical and experienced lineman. On the left side, Kelly has started 18 games, all in a row starting at the beginning of last season. His height actually makes him agile for his weight, and he is a converted TE from high school, so he has some athleticism. He is also a smart player, as he was academic all-conference last season. In the middle, Drey has started all 6 games after moving from tackle in the spring. Mondek moved over from defensive tackle after playing sparingly for 2 seasons. He and Drey appear to be entrenched at their positions and have made seamless transitions. Pierce has started 14 games sporadically throughout his career, mostly at RG. He switched to LG this season and is another physical presence in the interior. Collectively, this line as a whole has been much more valuable than the sum of its parts. They have allowed only 5 sacks and have learned on the fly to block for an entirely different set of skill players since the start of the spring. They have gelled well together and are underrated run blockers.
The reserves include few players with any experience. Sophomore Rick Schmeig (#76) has 2 career starts, including one last week in place of Plue. He received the team's Most Improved award in spring practice and will be a player to keep an eye on going forward. Senior Ryan Prater is the backup at LT and junior James Shepherd (#63) is the reserve RG. Neither player saw any action prior to this season. Freshman Trevor Foy (#78) moved from DE and is the backup at RT and could factor into the future. Andrew Brewer (#79) and Austen Moret (#65) also man the middle, but have played very sparingly. If there are any significant injuries, the Boilermakers are probably in trouble ... but then again where have they heard that before?
OL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus Ohio State OL
It is hard not to admire what the Boilermaker line has accomplished in this season of injury to virtually every significant skill player. They have blocked through different QBs with styles not often seen at Purdue, WRs playing at RB, different passing schemes, and no continuity in the backfield whatsoever. Through it all, they have played their assignments well and kept their team in the ballgame every week. There are unlikely to be any massive 300 yard passing days or 200 yard rushing days, but they have played solidly all season and will likely continue to do so. The Buckeyes have been average for their talent level, which is very high. It is always hard to pinpoint why a line doesn't gel like it should, but they had a very hard time during the first half last week and have had stretches like that throughout the season. Purdue has been maximizing what they have...they deserve ample credit for that. The area they suffer in is quality and/or experienced depth, though the injury bug has thus far avoided the line. It had better continue to do so, because the loss of 1 or 2 players could send the Boilers on a downward spiral they will be unable to recover from.
Edge: Even
Overall Offensive Analysis
This offense is a shell of Purdue offenses of the past decade or so, but give the players left standing immense credit for hanging in there, staying competitive, and winning their first 2 conference games. Gary Nord has done an outstanding job and should be commended for adjusting to losses that would cripple most teams beyond repair. Any team can lose a skill guy or even two, but take away a team's starting QB, RB, WR, and top reserve WR, and most teams wouldn't be able to overcome it. But Danny Hope and his team have not only refused to use it as an excuse, they've actually gotten better as the season has progressed and willed a few victories with grit and determination. The Buckeyes will be up for this game and should have no trouble slowing down Purdue for most of the afternoon, but they had better keep contain on Henry and cover Smith downfield, or they could give up some big plays. It's hard to see Dierking beating them much, but the TE can be a weapon in the passing game and the RBs have plenty of experience when called upon. If Purdue's defense keeps them close, they have the confidence of the past few weeks and last year's victory to draw on to make a play or two down the stretch. Is it likely? No, but don't count them out either...look what happened last year when many fans did.
Overall Offensive Rating: C+
Purdue's Donn Landholm is now in his second season as Purdue's defensive coordinator - a duty he now shares with Gary Emanuel. Landholm is a native of Bristow, Neb. and a former LB at Wayne State. The 54-year-old began his coaching career at Plainview (Neb.) High School, first as an assistant (1979 - 1981) and then two seasons as the head coach. His first college coaching experience came on the offensive side of the ball, coaching running backs at Central Missouri (1984-1985) before taking the same position at Montana State in 1986. From Montana State, Landholm moved over to the defensive side of the ball with Arizona State, where he coached from 1987 to 1991 as a graduate assistant with the defense for two years and then three more as a volunteer assistant with the linebackers. After a year back at the High School ranks, (PSJA North HS in Pharr Texas), he moved back to the offense; from 1993 to 1996, Landholm was the offensive line coach at Blinn (Texas) Junior College, the last two teams won back-to-back junior college national championships going undefeated both years. In 1997 Landholm joined the Eastern Kentucky staff, where he would serve five seasons under Danny Hope, before Hope came to Purdue. In his time at EKU Landholm coached linebackers, special teams, was defensive coordinator (2005 to 2007) and recruiting coordinator in 2008 in his 12 total seasons. Emanuel was an assistant with the Boilermakers from 1997 to 2004, coaching tackles and ends as well as being the Assistant Head Coach for Joe Tiller during Emanuel's final two seasons at Purdue. Between 2004 and 2010 Emanuel served as the defensive line coach for the San Francisco 49ers for two seasons, and coached at San Jose State and Rutgers. Prior to his first stop with Purdue, Emanuel served as Plymouth State's offensive coordinator (1981-85) and was also the head basketball coach at the school (1981-1985). From there, Emanuel coached at West Chester or two seasons, before taking a LB coaching position at UMass for two seasons (1986-1988). From 1988 - 1991 Emanuel was an assistant on the Dartmouth staff before earning his first D-IA position with the Syracuse Orange from '91 to '93. After his time at Syracuse, Emanuel also coached Washington State. Emanuel attended Westchester Community College and played football as an Guard. He was a junior college All-American his sophomore season. He transferred to Plymouth State for his final two seasons, but his career was hampered by a knee injury sustained as a Junior.
Stats.......|Score..|Tot.Yds..|Rush..|Pass..|INT.| Fum.|Sack.|1stD..|3rd D..|PCT...|Red Zone.|PCT.|RZ TDs.|PCT.|TOF..|
Purdue......|.20.3..|..344.3..|123.5.|220.8.|.4..| ..6..|.18..|.119..|41-89..|46%...|.16-21...|76%.|.12-21.|57%.|30:24|
Ohio State..|.16.0..|..251.1..|.93.7.|157.4.|.12.|..6.. |..8..|..95..|28-88..|32%...|.12-15...|80%.|..9-15.|60%.|27:22|
* TOF = Time on Field (Opponent's T.O.P)
Purdue's 2009 Defense finished last in the Big Ten in rushing yards against, giving up a hefty 173.4 while also allowing teams 29.1 points per game. Through 6 games in 2010, the Boilermakers have made improvements on both of those numbers, while being slightly worse against the pass (203.3 per game in 2009). As Ohio State fans will no doubt recall, the Purdue D-Line - led by Ryan Kerrigan - was able to cause significant disruption in opposing backfields in 2009, and that trend has continued in 2010 with the Boilers having 22 TFLs and 9 sacks coming from Kerrigan and Kawaan Short alone. The problems of the Purdue defense appear to be being unable to get off the field on third down and letting teams put together methodical drives down the field. That said, of 21 red zone opportunities, the Boilers are yielding an average of 4 points per red zone appearance while Ohio State, affording less red zone chances overall, has yielded an average on 4.2 points in those 15 trips. Entering last week's contest against Wisconsin, Ohio State's relatively unproductive line had been given a bit of a pass. In the preceding games, the line had failed to generate sacks, despite creating some pressure against "quick hitting" passing attacks. However, after Wisconsin was able to ram the ball down Ohio State's throat the D-Line will have to re-establish its ability to dominate before fans can become comfortable again. While the D-Line struggled against the power running game, Purdue does not represent a similar attack - though it may come as a surprise to our readers that Purdue averages 202 a game on the ground and only 159 a game through the air.
Stats.......|Score..|Tot.Yds..|Rush..|Pass..|INT.| Fum.|Sack.|1stD..|3rd D..|PCT...|Red Zone.|PCT.|RZ TDs.|PCT.|TOF..|
Purdue......|.20.3..|..344.3..|123.5.|220.8.|.4..| ..6..|.18..|.119..|41-89..|46%...|.16-21...|76%.|.12-21.|57%.|30:24|
Ohio State..|.16.0..|..251.1..|.93.7.|157.4.|.12.|..6.. |..8..|..95..|28-88..|32%...|.12-15...|80%.|..9-15.|60%.|27:22|
* TOF = Time on Field (Opponent's T.O.P)
Purdue's 2009 Defense finished last in the Big Ten in rushing yards against, giving up a hefty 173.4 while also allowing teams 29.1 points per game. Through 6 games in 2010, the Boilermakers have made improvements on both of those numbers, while being slightly worse against the pass (203.3 per game in 2009). As Ohio State fans will no doubt recall, the Purdue D-Line - led by Ryan Kerrigan - was able to cause significant disruption in opposing backfields in 2009, and that trend has continued in 2010 with the Boilers having 22 TFLs and 9 sacks coming from Kerrigan and Kawaan Short alone. The problems of the Purdue defense appear to be being unable to get off the field on third down and letting teams put together methodical drives down the field. That said, of 21 red zone opportunities, the Boilers are yielding an average of 4 points per red zone appearance while Ohio State, affording less red zone chances overall, has yielded an average on 4.2 points in those 15 trips. Entering last week's contest against Wisconsin, Ohio State's relatively unproductive line had been given a bit of a pass. In the preceding games, the line had failed to generate sacks, despite creating some pressure against "quick hitting" passing attacks. However, after Wisconsin was able to ram the ball down Ohio State's throat the D-Line will have to re-establish its ability to dominate before fans can become comfortable again. While the D-Line struggled against the power running game, Purdue does not represent a similar attack - though it may come as a surprise to our readers that Purdue averages 202 a game on the ground and only 159 a game through the air.
Defensive Line
DE #2 Gerald Gooden, (6-3, 235, Jr.)
DT #90 Bruce Gaston, (6-2, 300, Fr)
DT #93 Kawann Short, (6-4, 305, So.)
DE #94 Ryan Kerrigan, (6-4, 263, Sr.)
Coming into the 2010 season, the Big Ten had three men who were considered among the best defensive linemen in the nation. Senior Ryan Kerrigan was one of those guys, and he has lived up to the hype thus far. Unblockable at times, Kerrigan entered the 2010 campaign 5th all time at Purdue with 21 sacks. He has added another 5.5 this season, and leads all defenders in tackles with 41, 14.5 of which have come behind the line of scrimmage. The word "beast" may not be strong enough to describe him, and Ohio State will have to have an answer for number 94 on Saturday. While teams rightly keep the bulk of their attention on Kerrigan, Gooden has not been able to capitalize as much as hoped. He plays a speed game, but has not yet been able to establish much consistency behind the LOS. He has made 16 stops this season, with half a sack. While Gooden hasn't necessarily benefited from Kerrigan's presence, Kawaan Short has. The bulky sophomore has good hands for a big man, earning two INTs last season backing up the now departed Mike Neal. Short has tremendous potential and has been putting together a solid season with 24 stops, 8 for loss with 3.5 sacks and a team leading 6 pass breakups. Rounding out the front four is Gaston, a 300-pound freshman who has started the last two contests in place of Brandon Taylor, who suffered a sprained ankle two games ago and who may return to the starting role this week. Gaston has 12 stops with 1.5 for loss.
Defensive ends: #58 Robert Maci, (6-4, 241, So.) and #49 Adam Brockman, (6-3, 260, Jr.) and tackles: #91 Justin Kitchens, (6-4, 271, r-Fr) and #55 Brandon Taylor, (6-1, 280, r-Fr) back up the front line. Taylor is the son of Lawrence Taylor and was the starting DT prior to being slowed due to an ankle injury. In 4 games thus far, he has only 1 tackle. The other interior lineman, like Taylor also a redshirt freshman, Kitchens had played in 5 of six contests and has recorded 6 tackles with 1.5 sacks. On the ends, only Maci has yet to record any tackles, of which he has 7 thus for having played in each of Purdue's 6 games. In as much as it's all but impossible to get Kerrigan out of the game, it's not too surprising only one reserve end has accumulated numbers.
DL Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus OSU DL
As mentioned above, the Ohio State line had been given a bit of a pass in the preceding weeks as the Buckeyes had been able to generate pressure
on QBs even if not recording sacks and the rush defense numbers were quite solid as well. That was not the case against the Badgers, however, and as a result there are some questions up front going forward. Conversely, the Purdue line, specifically Kerrigan and Short, have been outstanding. While Purdue gives up more on the ground per game, they also have made more plays behind the line, and will certainly have their ears pinned back this week as well considering the disruption they created last season in their win against the Buckeyes. Purdue is awfully young when it comes to depth and Ohio State enjoys an advantage in that respect, but until the starting front four for the Bucks establish the sort of production displayed by the Boilermakers thus far, the edge here will go to Purdue.
Edge: Purdue
Linebackers
WLB #30 Joe Holland, (6-1, 225, Jr.)
MLB #3 Dwayne Beckford, (6-1, 228, So.)
SLB #24 Jason Werner, (6-4, 232, Sr.)
Beckford is a true sophomore who had a solid freshman campaign where he recorded 34 tackles as a key backup and special teamer. He has already shown tremendous potential and will only get better as time moves forward. He is second on the team in tackles with 39, two for loss with half a sack. On the weakside is former safety Joe Holland. In 2009 he was the team's second leading tackler and is third this season with 38. While he does not possess all the size in the world, he is able in coverage and brings solid speed to the unit. He has 4 TFLs and a sack as well. Rounding out the starting 3 is the lone senior, Jason Werner. Werner has struggled with injury during his time at Purdue and 2010 is his sixth season in college football (he missed 2006 and 2008 with injury). Smart and tough, when he's healthy Werner - also a former safety - can be a force. He has 35 tackles, 5 of which have come behind the LOS with 1.5 sacks and a 26 yard INT return and a fumble recovery.
Depth comes from reserve LBs: #45 Will Lucas, (5-11, 226, Fr.), #47 Chris Carlino, (6-2, 226, Jr.), and #11 DeVarro Greaves, (6-2, 220, Jr.). Carlino has seen plenty of playing time at Purdue and was last year's starting MLB recording 107 tackles. Carlino can play any of the three positions and will see action this Saturday for sure. He has only 8 tackles thus far, but brings knowledge and leadership when he's in. Lucas is a talented freshman who has played in each of the 6 Purdue's games this season. The leader among reserve LBs, he has 10 tackles with .5 coming for loss. Rounding out the depth at LB is Greaves. While he has just one tackle this season in six games, it was a 28 yard loss.
LB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus OSU LBs
The Purdue and Ohio State LBs have produced fairly similar tackling numbers. Ohio State's leader is Ross Homan with 41, and Brian Rolle has contributed another 38. While the Buckeyes have fielded just two LBs for the bulk of the season (owing to the sort of offenses they've faced) Andrew Sweat is a sure thing when he's on the field instead of the "Star." Last week Sweat was able to make an INT, joining Rolle (2) and Homan (1) in the category. In this respect the Buckeyes corps has been more productive. Homan, however is likely to miss this week and maybe next as he heals an ankle injury. While the Buckeyes struggled against Wisconsin's power running game, the LBs have been solid in run support generally and slightly moreso than has been the Purdue unit. The Boilermakers are a solid unit, but the slight edge here goes to Ohio State.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
CB #21 Ricardo Allen, (5-9, 175, Fr.)
SS #35 Logan Link, (6-1, 204, Jr.)
FS #32 Albert Evans, (6-0, 206, Jr.)
CB #28 Josh Johnson, (5-11, 191, So.)
The Boilermakers have had to replace their entire secondary from a year ago, including Torri Williams, the team's leading tackler from 2009 and has tried several different combinations this season. Two juniors anchor the middle of the secondary. Link has been the more productive of the two, having recorded 36 tackles, half for loss, with 1 INT and a fumble recovery. With good size, Link can deliver bone-jarring hits, but is not as adept with the ball in the air. Evans shares similar size to Link and, like Link, is an able tackler who could perform better when the ball is in the air. A JUCO transfer who played WR in High School, Evans has 19 tackles with 2 sacks thus far. The Boilers are quite young on the corners. The elder of the two, Johnson, played 11 games last season mostly on special teams. He has good tools and good size, but will have to suffer some growing pains before he reaches his ceiling. In 2010 he has 27 tackles with a sack and a fumble recovery, but has not recorded an interception. Allen is a true freshman who has made his way in to the starting lineup and, like Johnson, has some growing pains ahead of him. Nonetheless, he's had a solid freshman campaign thus far, recording 30 tackles with 2.5 for loss with a sack. He has one INT.
Corners: #15 Charlton Williams, (6-2, 197, Jr.) and #10 Mike Eargle, (6-0, 165, Jr.), and safeties: #29 Chris Quinn, (5-11, 185, So.), and #34 Max Charlot, (6-0, 190, Jr.) round out the secondary depth. Williams has been the most productive reserve thus far with 19 tackles and half a sack but has not recorded an INT or forced any fumbles. Eargle has 7 tackles in 6 games, while Charlot has 6, with half a TFL and a pick. Quinn has not yet recorded any statistics.
DB Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus OSU DBs
Purdue's secondary is young and inexperienced but has performed reasonably well up to this point in the season. The group has not been particularly skilled at creating turnovers and benefits a good deal from a D-Line which is able to get to the QB. If the unit is expected to cover for very long, there will be open receivers for Pryor to distribute the football to. Ohio State DBs have recorded 6 INTs thus far, lead by Chimdi Chekwa's two, and are more experienced. While the Buckeyes continue to suffer from the loss of starting safety CJ Barnett and star Tyler Moeller, the unit possess more raw talent and depth than do the Boilermakers and therefore gets the edge here as well.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
As the old saying goes, "it all starts up front" and Purdue's defensive success is a prime example. When Purdue's line is able to penetrate and cause disruption, the overall defense is formidable. While the Boilermakers front four has been very good at doing this, most particularly with Kerrigan and Short, when the front four are slowed up there is both room to run and throw against them. As Buckeye fans recall, last season, Purdue's front four harassed Pryor into his worst performance as a Buckeye. It will be up to Pryor to punch back this year, and there can be little doubt he's had this one circled. The Buckeyes had a rough time getting off blocks and slowing down Wisconsin's power running game when it mattered, but should be able to get back to business this week against a Purdue team that seems to be built to pass, but instead has been more successful running the ball. Ohio State's front four have got to re-establish themselves this week, and it would be nice to see them convert pressure into sacks and tackles for loss rather than misfired passes and short gains. Of course, there's nothing wrong with short gains and misfired passes, but now is the time for the line to put up numbers.
Overall Defensive Rating: B
2010 Purdue Boilermakers Special Teams PreviewDE #2 Gerald Gooden, (6-3, 235, Jr.)
DT #90 Bruce Gaston, (6-2, 300, Fr)
DT #93 Kawann Short, (6-4, 305, So.)
DE #94 Ryan Kerrigan, (6-4, 263, Sr.)
Coming into the 2010 season, the Big Ten had three men who were considered among the best defensive linemen in the nation. Senior Ryan Kerrigan was one of those guys, and he has lived up to the hype thus far. Unblockable at times, Kerrigan entered the 2010 campaign 5th all time at Purdue with 21 sacks. He has added another 5.5 this season, and leads all defenders in tackles with 41, 14.5 of which have come behind the line of scrimmage. The word "beast" may not be strong enough to describe him, and Ohio State will have to have an answer for number 94 on Saturday. While teams rightly keep the bulk of their attention on Kerrigan, Gooden has not been able to capitalize as much as hoped. He plays a speed game, but has not yet been able to establish much consistency behind the LOS. He has made 16 stops this season, with half a sack. While Gooden hasn't necessarily benefited from Kerrigan's presence, Kawaan Short has. The bulky sophomore has good hands for a big man, earning two INTs last season backing up the now departed Mike Neal. Short has tremendous potential and has been putting together a solid season with 24 stops, 8 for loss with 3.5 sacks and a team leading 6 pass breakups. Rounding out the front four is Gaston, a 300-pound freshman who has started the last two contests in place of Brandon Taylor, who suffered a sprained ankle two games ago and who may return to the starting role this week. Gaston has 12 stops with 1.5 for loss.
Defensive ends: #58 Robert Maci, (6-4, 241, So.) and #49 Adam Brockman, (6-3, 260, Jr.) and tackles: #91 Justin Kitchens, (6-4, 271, r-Fr) and #55 Brandon Taylor, (6-1, 280, r-Fr) back up the front line. Taylor is the son of Lawrence Taylor and was the starting DT prior to being slowed due to an ankle injury. In 4 games thus far, he has only 1 tackle. The other interior lineman, like Taylor also a redshirt freshman, Kitchens had played in 5 of six contests and has recorded 6 tackles with 1.5 sacks. On the ends, only Maci has yet to record any tackles, of which he has 7 thus for having played in each of Purdue's 6 games. In as much as it's all but impossible to get Kerrigan out of the game, it's not too surprising only one reserve end has accumulated numbers.
DL Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus OSU DL
As mentioned above, the Ohio State line had been given a bit of a pass in the preceding weeks as the Buckeyes had been able to generate pressure
on QBs even if not recording sacks and the rush defense numbers were quite solid as well. That was not the case against the Badgers, however, and as a result there are some questions up front going forward. Conversely, the Purdue line, specifically Kerrigan and Short, have been outstanding. While Purdue gives up more on the ground per game, they also have made more plays behind the line, and will certainly have their ears pinned back this week as well considering the disruption they created last season in their win against the Buckeyes. Purdue is awfully young when it comes to depth and Ohio State enjoys an advantage in that respect, but until the starting front four for the Bucks establish the sort of production displayed by the Boilermakers thus far, the edge here will go to Purdue.
Edge: Purdue
Linebackers
WLB #30 Joe Holland, (6-1, 225, Jr.)
MLB #3 Dwayne Beckford, (6-1, 228, So.)
SLB #24 Jason Werner, (6-4, 232, Sr.)
Beckford is a true sophomore who had a solid freshman campaign where he recorded 34 tackles as a key backup and special teamer. He has already shown tremendous potential and will only get better as time moves forward. He is second on the team in tackles with 39, two for loss with half a sack. On the weakside is former safety Joe Holland. In 2009 he was the team's second leading tackler and is third this season with 38. While he does not possess all the size in the world, he is able in coverage and brings solid speed to the unit. He has 4 TFLs and a sack as well. Rounding out the starting 3 is the lone senior, Jason Werner. Werner has struggled with injury during his time at Purdue and 2010 is his sixth season in college football (he missed 2006 and 2008 with injury). Smart and tough, when he's healthy Werner - also a former safety - can be a force. He has 35 tackles, 5 of which have come behind the LOS with 1.5 sacks and a 26 yard INT return and a fumble recovery.
Depth comes from reserve LBs: #45 Will Lucas, (5-11, 226, Fr.), #47 Chris Carlino, (6-2, 226, Jr.), and #11 DeVarro Greaves, (6-2, 220, Jr.). Carlino has seen plenty of playing time at Purdue and was last year's starting MLB recording 107 tackles. Carlino can play any of the three positions and will see action this Saturday for sure. He has only 8 tackles thus far, but brings knowledge and leadership when he's in. Lucas is a talented freshman who has played in each of the 6 Purdue's games this season. The leader among reserve LBs, he has 10 tackles with .5 coming for loss. Rounding out the depth at LB is Greaves. While he has just one tackle this season in six games, it was a 28 yard loss.
LB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus OSU LBs
The Purdue and Ohio State LBs have produced fairly similar tackling numbers. Ohio State's leader is Ross Homan with 41, and Brian Rolle has contributed another 38. While the Buckeyes have fielded just two LBs for the bulk of the season (owing to the sort of offenses they've faced) Andrew Sweat is a sure thing when he's on the field instead of the "Star." Last week Sweat was able to make an INT, joining Rolle (2) and Homan (1) in the category. In this respect the Buckeyes corps has been more productive. Homan, however is likely to miss this week and maybe next as he heals an ankle injury. While the Buckeyes struggled against Wisconsin's power running game, the LBs have been solid in run support generally and slightly moreso than has been the Purdue unit. The Boilermakers are a solid unit, but the slight edge here goes to Ohio State.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
CB #21 Ricardo Allen, (5-9, 175, Fr.)
SS #35 Logan Link, (6-1, 204, Jr.)
FS #32 Albert Evans, (6-0, 206, Jr.)
CB #28 Josh Johnson, (5-11, 191, So.)
The Boilermakers have had to replace their entire secondary from a year ago, including Torri Williams, the team's leading tackler from 2009 and has tried several different combinations this season. Two juniors anchor the middle of the secondary. Link has been the more productive of the two, having recorded 36 tackles, half for loss, with 1 INT and a fumble recovery. With good size, Link can deliver bone-jarring hits, but is not as adept with the ball in the air. Evans shares similar size to Link and, like Link, is an able tackler who could perform better when the ball is in the air. A JUCO transfer who played WR in High School, Evans has 19 tackles with 2 sacks thus far. The Boilers are quite young on the corners. The elder of the two, Johnson, played 11 games last season mostly on special teams. He has good tools and good size, but will have to suffer some growing pains before he reaches his ceiling. In 2010 he has 27 tackles with a sack and a fumble recovery, but has not recorded an interception. Allen is a true freshman who has made his way in to the starting lineup and, like Johnson, has some growing pains ahead of him. Nonetheless, he's had a solid freshman campaign thus far, recording 30 tackles with 2.5 for loss with a sack. He has one INT.
Corners: #15 Charlton Williams, (6-2, 197, Jr.) and #10 Mike Eargle, (6-0, 165, Jr.), and safeties: #29 Chris Quinn, (5-11, 185, So.), and #34 Max Charlot, (6-0, 190, Jr.) round out the secondary depth. Williams has been the most productive reserve thus far with 19 tackles and half a sack but has not recorded an INT or forced any fumbles. Eargle has 7 tackles in 6 games, while Charlot has 6, with half a TFL and a pick. Quinn has not yet recorded any statistics.
DB Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Purdue versus OSU DBs
Purdue's secondary is young and inexperienced but has performed reasonably well up to this point in the season. The group has not been particularly skilled at creating turnovers and benefits a good deal from a D-Line which is able to get to the QB. If the unit is expected to cover for very long, there will be open receivers for Pryor to distribute the football to. Ohio State DBs have recorded 6 INTs thus far, lead by Chimdi Chekwa's two, and are more experienced. While the Buckeyes continue to suffer from the loss of starting safety CJ Barnett and star Tyler Moeller, the unit possess more raw talent and depth than do the Boilermakers and therefore gets the edge here as well.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
As the old saying goes, "it all starts up front" and Purdue's defensive success is a prime example. When Purdue's line is able to penetrate and cause disruption, the overall defense is formidable. While the Boilermakers front four has been very good at doing this, most particularly with Kerrigan and Short, when the front four are slowed up there is both room to run and throw against them. As Buckeye fans recall, last season, Purdue's front four harassed Pryor into his worst performance as a Buckeye. It will be up to Pryor to punch back this year, and there can be little doubt he's had this one circled. The Buckeyes had a rough time getting off blocks and slowing down Wisconsin's power running game when it mattered, but should be able to get back to business this week against a Purdue team that seems to be built to pass, but instead has been more successful running the ball. Ohio State's front four have got to re-establish themselves this week, and it would be nice to see them convert pressure into sacks and tackles for loss rather than misfired passes and short gains. Of course, there's nothing wrong with short gains and misfired passes, but now is the time for the line to put up numbers.
Overall Defensive Rating: B
Well, if finally happened. It could be argued that it didn't, but it did. The Ohio State Special Teams cost the Buckeyes a game. Sure, Wisconsin dominated the Buckeye defensive line and made play after play, but it was all set up by the TD return to open the game. If the ball sails into the end zone, or the Badgers start on their own 30 or less, Wisconsin doesn't get fired up, is not playing with the lead, and cannot afford to simply run the ball down the Buckeye's throads. In that event, the outcome may have been different. Well, it's time for Coach Tressel to get back to work and it's time to have a serious heart-to-heart with whomever is responsible for Special Teams play. While it is probable that the National Championship is lost, the Big Ten Championship and berth in Rose Bowl are still within their grasp. There are plenty of reasons to keep working.
Special Teams
Purdue
P #42 Cody Webster (6-2, 190, Fr., Central Dauphin East HS, Harrisburg, PA)
PK #37 Carson Wiggs (6-0, 197, Jr., South Grand Prairie HS, Grand Prairie, TX)
PR #28 Josh Johnson (5-11, 191, So., Pasco HS, Dade City, FL)
PR #3 Waynelle Gravesande (6-0, 189, Jr., Irvington HS, Irvington, NJ)
KR #4 O.J. Ross (5-10, 175, Fr., Mainland HS, Ormond Beach, FL)
KR #5 Al-Terek McBurse (6-0, 195, So., Winter Springs HS, Winter Springs, FL)
KR #28 Josh Johnson (5-11, 191, So., Pasco HS, Dade City, FL)
LS #96 John Finch (6-3, 238, Sr., Carmel HS, Carmel, IN)
Hldr #87 Kris Staats (6-1, 203, Sr., La Porte HS, La Porte, IN)
This may be the only time this season where Ohio State's opponent has worse Special Teams than they do. Purdue ranks near the bottom in practically every Special Team category. Freshman Punter Cody Webster replaced an ineffective Carson Wiggs and they have combined to punt 31 times for 1267 yards (40.87 avg). Their combined net is only 36.10 yards, ranking them 68th in the nation. The Boilermakers own punt return team has not helped their cause. They have returned 10 punts for only 13 yards (1.3 avg) to rank them 118th in the nation. Only winless New Mexico and 1-6 Memphis rank lower. On the kickoff return front Purdue is equally inept. They are also 118th in the Nation with a 17.7 yard average per return. Their Special Teams defenses are only slightly better. The punt return team allows an average of 11.33 yards per return to rank 85th out of 120 teams. The kickoff return defense is statistically worse than the Buckeyes, allowing over 25.58 yards per return (110th in the nation). While bad, neither the punt nor kickoff return teams have allowed an opponent to take one all the way back. Yet. The Buckeyes have allowed 3 TDs this year on returns.
ST Rating: F
Ohio State
P #17 Ben Buchanan (6-0, 195, Fr., Westerville Central HS, Westerville, OH)
PK #24 Devin Barclay (5-10, 204, Sr., McDonough HS, Annapolis, MD)
KO #24 Drew Basil (6-1, 206, Fr., Chillicothe HS, Chillicothe, OH)
PR #8 DeVier Posey (6-2, 200, Jr., LaSalle HS, Cincinnati, OH)
PR #10 Corey Brown (5-10, 170, Fr., Cardinal O'Hara HS, Upper Darby, PA)
PR #7 Jordan Hall (5-9, 195, So., Jeanette HS, Jeanette, PA)
KR #1 Dan Herron (5-10, 202, Jr., Harding HS, Warren, OH)
KR #3 Brandon Saine (6-1, 219, Sr., Piqua HS, Piqua, OH)
KR #7 Jordan Hall (5-9, 195, So., Jeanette HS, Jeanette, PA)
KR #4 Jaamal Berry (5-10, 200, Fr., Palmetto HS, Pinecrest, FL)
LS #96 Jake McQuaide (6-3, 234, Sr., Elder HS, Cincinnati, OH)
Hldr #14 Joe Bauserman (6-1, 233, Jr., Lincoln HS, Stasburg, VA)
After 3 consectutive games of improved Special Teams play, the Buckeyes took a major step backwards last weekend when Wisconsin returned the opening kickoff for a TD. The Badgers played with the lead and allowed them to gear up their running game. It is true that Pryor was not up to his usual standards and the defense was uncharacteristically soft, but the opening return set the tone for the game, got the crowd into it and fired up the team. We can go through all of the statistics one at a time, but suffice it to say that, save for the kickoff return team which is still among the leaders, they all are well below Ohio State standards. In a September 23rd article by Adam Rittenberg of ESPN, Coach Tressel had this to say about what they were doing to correct the problems plaguing the OSU Special Teams:
"If there's one error in a special team, all of a sudden it can look disastrous," Tressel said, "whether it's a guy not blocking someone and they come in and block your punt, or a guy getting knocked out of his lane on a kickoff and all of a sudden, they've got a fast guy running through a hole. So there's a learning curve."
"There's no way to rush it," Tressel continued. "You can practice things all you want, but you certainly don't spend all afternoon in practice running down full speed on kickoff and smashing into each other. I just think it takes a little bit of time and understanding for all parties involved."
Indeed. The Buckeyes need to keep working and we fans have to hope for the best. But I will be glad when Ohio State kicks off and I am not holding breath.
ST Rating: There is an old joke that has a student approaching his professor about his grade. "I don't deserve an F", he complains. The Professor answers "I agree, but there isn't any lower grade". Apply that here.
Overall Special Teams Analysis
Upon examining the statistics and reviewing the games, there is hope that this game's Special Teams play does not turn into a slapstick comedy. Purdue has the athletes, but they aren't better than Ohio State's. Statistically they are worse than Ohio State, but the Buckeyes are the ones who have allowed scores. Whether either team rights its ship and helps their offense and defense with field position remains to be seen. Here's to blind faith in the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
PredictionsSpecial Teams
Purdue
P #42 Cody Webster (6-2, 190, Fr., Central Dauphin East HS, Harrisburg, PA)
PK #37 Carson Wiggs (6-0, 197, Jr., South Grand Prairie HS, Grand Prairie, TX)
PR #28 Josh Johnson (5-11, 191, So., Pasco HS, Dade City, FL)
PR #3 Waynelle Gravesande (6-0, 189, Jr., Irvington HS, Irvington, NJ)
KR #4 O.J. Ross (5-10, 175, Fr., Mainland HS, Ormond Beach, FL)
KR #5 Al-Terek McBurse (6-0, 195, So., Winter Springs HS, Winter Springs, FL)
KR #28 Josh Johnson (5-11, 191, So., Pasco HS, Dade City, FL)
LS #96 John Finch (6-3, 238, Sr., Carmel HS, Carmel, IN)
Hldr #87 Kris Staats (6-1, 203, Sr., La Porte HS, La Porte, IN)
This may be the only time this season where Ohio State's opponent has worse Special Teams than they do. Purdue ranks near the bottom in practically every Special Team category. Freshman Punter Cody Webster replaced an ineffective Carson Wiggs and they have combined to punt 31 times for 1267 yards (40.87 avg). Their combined net is only 36.10 yards, ranking them 68th in the nation. The Boilermakers own punt return team has not helped their cause. They have returned 10 punts for only 13 yards (1.3 avg) to rank them 118th in the nation. Only winless New Mexico and 1-6 Memphis rank lower. On the kickoff return front Purdue is equally inept. They are also 118th in the Nation with a 17.7 yard average per return. Their Special Teams defenses are only slightly better. The punt return team allows an average of 11.33 yards per return to rank 85th out of 120 teams. The kickoff return defense is statistically worse than the Buckeyes, allowing over 25.58 yards per return (110th in the nation). While bad, neither the punt nor kickoff return teams have allowed an opponent to take one all the way back. Yet. The Buckeyes have allowed 3 TDs this year on returns.
ST Rating: F
Ohio State
P #17 Ben Buchanan (6-0, 195, Fr., Westerville Central HS, Westerville, OH)
PK #24 Devin Barclay (5-10, 204, Sr., McDonough HS, Annapolis, MD)
KO #24 Drew Basil (6-1, 206, Fr., Chillicothe HS, Chillicothe, OH)
PR #8 DeVier Posey (6-2, 200, Jr., LaSalle HS, Cincinnati, OH)
PR #10 Corey Brown (5-10, 170, Fr., Cardinal O'Hara HS, Upper Darby, PA)
PR #7 Jordan Hall (5-9, 195, So., Jeanette HS, Jeanette, PA)
KR #1 Dan Herron (5-10, 202, Jr., Harding HS, Warren, OH)
KR #3 Brandon Saine (6-1, 219, Sr., Piqua HS, Piqua, OH)
KR #7 Jordan Hall (5-9, 195, So., Jeanette HS, Jeanette, PA)
KR #4 Jaamal Berry (5-10, 200, Fr., Palmetto HS, Pinecrest, FL)
LS #96 Jake McQuaide (6-3, 234, Sr., Elder HS, Cincinnati, OH)
Hldr #14 Joe Bauserman (6-1, 233, Jr., Lincoln HS, Stasburg, VA)
After 3 consectutive games of improved Special Teams play, the Buckeyes took a major step backwards last weekend when Wisconsin returned the opening kickoff for a TD. The Badgers played with the lead and allowed them to gear up their running game. It is true that Pryor was not up to his usual standards and the defense was uncharacteristically soft, but the opening return set the tone for the game, got the crowd into it and fired up the team. We can go through all of the statistics one at a time, but suffice it to say that, save for the kickoff return team which is still among the leaders, they all are well below Ohio State standards. In a September 23rd article by Adam Rittenberg of ESPN, Coach Tressel had this to say about what they were doing to correct the problems plaguing the OSU Special Teams:
"If there's one error in a special team, all of a sudden it can look disastrous," Tressel said, "whether it's a guy not blocking someone and they come in and block your punt, or a guy getting knocked out of his lane on a kickoff and all of a sudden, they've got a fast guy running through a hole. So there's a learning curve."
"There's no way to rush it," Tressel continued. "You can practice things all you want, but you certainly don't spend all afternoon in practice running down full speed on kickoff and smashing into each other. I just think it takes a little bit of time and understanding for all parties involved."
Indeed. The Buckeyes need to keep working and we fans have to hope for the best. But I will be glad when Ohio State kicks off and I am not holding breath.
ST Rating: There is an old joke that has a student approaching his professor about his grade. "I don't deserve an F", he complains. The Professor answers "I agree, but there isn't any lower grade". Apply that here.
Overall Special Teams Analysis
Upon examining the statistics and reviewing the games, there is hope that this game's Special Teams play does not turn into a slapstick comedy. Purdue has the athletes, but they aren't better than Ohio State's. Statistically they are worse than Ohio State, but the Buckeyes are the ones who have allowed scores. Whether either team rights its ship and helps their offense and defense with field position remains to be seen. Here's to blind faith in the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
BB73's prediction: 34-13, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 35-10, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 27-13, Ohio State
Bucky Katt's prediction: 27-6, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 30-5, Ohio State
JCOSU86's Prediction: 28-10, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 34-17, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (tOSU 18 - Wisconsin 31)
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.)
(135) Bucklion's prediction: 24-20, Ohio State (27 + 108 last week = 135)
(137) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 37-16, Ohio State (44 + 093 last week = 137)
(142) jwinslow's prediction: 28-21, Ohio State (30 + 112 last week = 142)
(144) Bucky Katt's prediction: 23-13, Ohio State (33 + 111 last week = 144)
(152) BB73's prediction: 27-17 Ohio State (33 + 119 last week = 152)
(155) JCOSU86's prediction: 34-17, Ohio State (40 + 115 last week= 155)
(157) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 34-10, Ohio State (47 + 110 last week = 157)
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 35-10, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 27-13, Ohio State
Bucky Katt's prediction: 27-6, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 30-5, Ohio State
JCOSU86's Prediction: 28-10, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 34-17, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (tOSU 18 - Wisconsin 31)
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.)
(135) Bucklion's prediction: 24-20, Ohio State (27 + 108 last week = 135)
(137) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 37-16, Ohio State (44 + 093 last week = 137)
(142) jwinslow's prediction: 28-21, Ohio State (30 + 112 last week = 142)
(144) Bucky Katt's prediction: 23-13, Ohio State (33 + 111 last week = 144)
(152) BB73's prediction: 27-17 Ohio State (33 + 119 last week = 152)
(155) JCOSU86's prediction: 34-17, Ohio State (40 + 115 last week= 155)
(157) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 34-10, Ohio State (47 + 110 last week = 157)
Last edited:
