Quick thoughts on the unit matchups.
First off, I'll say that the loss of Tyler Moeller for the season may impact this game more than any other. I thought he would have the opportunity to play a big part in this one, be it on blitzes, containing the edges on runs, and especially covering Havili on passing routes. We have multiple guys who can fill in admirably, but I thought TM was going to make a name for himself in this game. Get well, Ty.
OSU D-line vs. USC O-line. Will be an improvement over last year, but that's not saying much. USC's O-line should be a top 10 unit in the country, and will probably be the best line we see all regular season, but as long as we can play them straight up and not lose ground, it will be better than last year. I think it will be more than that. We have so many bodies to throw at them, we can ramp up the pressure on the QB and force plays. Thad, Cam, Wilson, and Nate W. will create problems on the edges, and I think Worthington, Dex/Denlinger, and Goebel will keep the middle honest. That in itself will open up opportunities for the LBs and DBs to make plays. Last year, USC's line was able to affect the LBs on running plays, and give Sanchez all the time in the world on passes. Their line will have some big plays this year, but not nearly as dominant. If Barkley starts, the pressure will have more of an effect. He's never seen BCS level DBs, if we can create 3rd and long situations, his forced throws could be costly. I think this matchup will be no worse than even, and possibly a big plus for OSU.
OSU O-line vs. USC D-line. Hard to call. Brewster is our only known commodity returning to his position. Boren should be above average at LG, and Cordle, our 2nd best hold over, has yet to establish his spot. The other positions are TBD. Still, it should be an improvement over last year. 08's O-line was only good against inferior competition, and flat out sucked in most big games. TP doesn't need much time/room to make plays, but he wasn't guaranteed of that much last year. As long as our line at least bumps blitzers, it will make a difference. Hopefully, we've seen the last of unblocked DEs creaming our QB. From what I've heard, USC's D-line will not be up to last year's level, which could be a double plus for us. I'm sure they will have talent, and make some plays, but it shouldn't be a slaughter again. I can't call a big advantage for the Buckeyes, but as long as our line keeps blitzers from running free, it should give TP enough time to make plays.
OSU LB vs. USC RB. Last game, USC was able to run all over us by getting blockers on our LBs 3 yds before the ball carrier ran by. Considering our relative strength at LB last year, that had more to do with the D-line getting dominated. JL and MF were both impressive LBs, but niether were true speed demons. This year, I expect the LBs to be a step faster, and get more help from the D-line. Spittler I can't say is fast, but he just needs to guard the middle and cover the tight edge. Homan I think has the mobility to contain his edge. As I mentioned, Moeller is a big loss, but we have guys (Rolle, Sabino, maybe Hines) who can cover ground, especially if they don't have blockers in their faces. I don't think we can shut down McKnight and Co. by any means, but if we can limit them to 3- YPC for the most part, we will be be forcing USC to make big plays when we're expecting it. Can't say this year's LBs will be an improvement over such an accomplished unit, but they have a chance to be more effective.
OSU RB vs. USC LB. USC fans probably have the same expectations of their young LBs as I have of ours (if not higher). They undoubtetly have equal or better talent in their new group, I just haven't been following them. Both LB corps are largely unknown, as far as NCAA experience, but should have more than enough players that are ready to step in for their celebrated predecessors. Again, I think the biggest factor of USC's LB play will be the effect of OSU's O-line. If our line can open holes to get Boom a head of steam, I think he can make the cuts to gain an extra few yards. If TP gets to the LBs untouched, they're probably toast.
OSU WR vs. USC DB. This may be the biggest advantage for the trojans. USC's defensive backfield may be the most talented and experienced group in CFB this season, and our passing game features a good amount of talent, but very green. I wouldn't want to see us try to air it out all game on them, but if we can pull the coverage toward the line, we could have some success. It's unknown whether we have WRs who can make big plays deep on them, but I like our cahnces in the underneath throws, especially if TP relies on Sanzo and the TEs. Posey will be the determining factor on whether we have a deep threat. If he can make some plays that warrant double coverage, it will open it up for everyone else. I'd like to see Flash and Small make an impact. If the line gives TP a good amount of time, it will help. Coverage breaks down given time, and the threat of the scramble will put USC's DBs on islands much of the time. TP's ability to make accurate throws will be a big factor.
OSU DB vs. USC WR. USC will throw some curveballs at our DBs, and they will need to be ready. Our coverage is more geared toward limiting yardage than shutting it down, but I think our safeties will be improved in coverage this year. The big question is who will be manning the CB spot opposite Chekwa, and if we can afford to roll help to either side. This season will be much different without Jenkins taking away half the field. We need all our DBs to step up and take care of business. I expect OSU will be in nickel coverage for much of the game, with Hines as the NB. I may be wrong, USC may choose a power run set, depending on who is playing QB, but we must be ready for the deep pass every down. IMO, USC needs the threat of the deep pass to be effective on offense, if Corp is unable to go, OSU may be able to dictate how USC approaches the passing game. As with the running game, if OSU's D can limit the big pass plays, it will force USC's hand.
