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| Bucky is invading the 'Shoe |
Wisconsin (6-1, 2-1) comes into this match up after falling to an instant classic Hail Mary play at the hands of the Michigan State Spartans. Ohio State (4-3, 1-2) got off with a BYE week, and had extra time to prepare a course of attack against this underrated Badger defense. The last time the Buckeyes played, was when they upset then undefeated 6-0 Illinois, which has lost it's past two games, including the one to Ohio State. OSU's ability to run the ball might be in danger tonight, for Bret Bielema is no fool, and will try and make Braxton Miller throw the ball again tonight.
When Ohio State Has The Ball
- Boom Herron will lead the attack, but be supported by Jordan Hall and Carlos Hyde, and they all have to have a big night for the Buckeyes to come out on top. With Mike Adams also coming back (vs. Nebraska) has already made a huge improvement on the offensive line, as some shifts have allowed the players to play their intended and original positions, coupled with the fact Adams is a great run blocker, and can open up the holes on the outside.
- Braxton Miller will have to throw the ball tonight, as mentioned. He can't always look for Jake Stoneburner, so some middle screens, or hitch routes to receivers might open up the deep passing game as well. I expect the offense to come out prepared with that much time, so look for a similar first half approach like Bollman and Fickell called in the Nebraska game, where Ohio State led by 20 points at halftime.
When Wisconsin Has The Ball
- No matter what you think of Russell Wilson and the Wisconsin Badgers, they have been consistent. Although they may not have played great opponents, when they faced Michigan State, they were still up 14-0 before the crumple. The Badgers are so dangerous, it's impossible to pick a person to key in on. Montee Ball has done a fantastic job, carrying the rock for a nation-leading 19 touchdowns on the season, and don't forget about James White, who is also a dangerous speed-type runner. Nick Toon and Jared Abbrederis are pretty solid receivers, and the Silver Bullets will also have to keep on eye on tight-end Jacob Pederson.
- While Ohio State's defense has played very well as of late (Holding Michigan State to 10 and Illinois to 7) the Buckeyes haven't faced an offense quite like this, and may struggle. The secondary has to be on point if the Buckeyes want to succeed tonight. It starts there, because I trust John Simon and the front line to get enough pressure to force Russell Wilson to make some bad decisions.
My Prediction: Wisconsin 27, Ohio State 17 - I hate to pick against the good guys, but Wisconsin might be too much for the defense, and the offense is still too green. If I'm wrong then I think they've turned the corner and it's possible to get to the B1G championship game, but sadly, I don't think we've got enough to pull off the upset.
Extra Game Notes
- Ohio State will be wearing Pro Combat Uniforms to honor the 1961 team.
- Today marks the first time in 12 meetings between these teams that Wisconsin has faced an unranked Ohio State team. The last time that occurred was November 5th, 1994, with the Buckeyes winning 24-3 in Columbus. The Badgers have also lost their past 2 trips to Ohio State last beating them 24-13 on Oct. 9, 2004.
- As far as recruiting goes, 4 prospects are on official visits. Adolphus Washington, Cardale Jones, Dwayne Stanford, and Michael Thomas. There are many recruits also on unofficial visits, including already-committed athletes. This is a big game for Ohio State not only for current players, but for future stars. This game may turn the tide in who grabs who come National Signing Day.
- The Buckeyes are 0-2 this season in night games with losses at Miami (Fl.) and Nebraska. OSU is 35-19 all time in night games.
