The Buck(s) Stops with Fickel
There is really no way to ignore it, the coach is not ready. He did not have the team prepared, and he did not make adjustments -- that is, if there was a game plan to adjust before kick off.
Bollman has been the target of most of the knowledgeable critics. But, regardless if Gee/Smith did not allow any Offensive personnel changes, Fickel should be directing the coordinators. Fickel is not directing, managing, leading, or presenting himself as a capable OSU head coach.
With, or without the TAT-5, they have more gifted players than nearly any team in the nation. I would not replace more than 3 or 4 Buckeyes offensive players with MSU players. Fewer would be swapped from Miami's or Toledo's offenses, and they both moved the ball more effectively than OSU.
I am wondering if his career success to date, has resulted from Heacock's direction. Is he just a passionate guy, and good recruiter?
With his X and O experience, he should be an expert in analysis of Offense vs Defense schemes and plays. You can't strategize defensively, without understanding the other side of the ball.
The Buckeye's are being poorly coached, and the players are being cheated of their potential.