Analyzing No. 3 Ohio State’s Run Game and Defensive Challenges Against No. 7 Penn State

No. 3 Ohio State is gearing up to face off against No. 7 Penn State in a highly anticipated showdown, and the Buckeyes are looking to exploit their running game to secure a signature win. Head coach Ryan Day may simplify the offensive scheme, following the K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple, Stupid) principle, and emphasize the run game against Penn State, just as they did against Purdue.

In their previous game, Ohio State managed to rush for 152 yards, with surprising contributions from fourth-string tailback Dallan Hayden. Hayden showcased his skills by gaining 76 rushing yards on just 11 carries. This impressive performance bodes well for the Buckeyes, especially if playmaker TreVeyon Henderson is able to return from injury in time for the Penn State game. Henderson has proven to be a home-run threat at tailback, as evidenced by his game-changing 61-yard touchdown against Notre Dame earlier in the season.

Against Purdue, Ohio State found success with simple rushing plays such as counters, stretches, and toss sweeps. This approach allowed them to dominate the Boilermakers with a 41-7 victory. By establishing the run game, Day was also able to exploit the man-to-man coverage by dialing up effective passing plays, even in the absence of injured wideout Emeka Egbuka.

It’s worth noting that Penn State boasts one of the nation’s premier run defenses, which presents a challenge for Ohio State’s talented but sometimes imprecise offensive line. Conversely, the Nittany Lions have also excelled in rushing offense, ranking 15th nationally. This matchup brings to light the disparity between Ohio State’s struggles in running the ball (ranked 92nd) and their historical legacy of producing outstanding tailbacks, including three Heisman winners.

While Ohio State may have faced criticism in the past for prioritizing the passing game over establishing a tough running style, their close encounter against Penn State last year serves as a reminder of the importance of a balanced offensive approach. In that game, the Buckeyes managed to secure a come-from-behind victory, scoring 28 fourth-quarter points after a lackluster performance in the previous three quarters. However, they were limited to just 98 rushing yards, averaging 3.3 yards per carry. The defensive impact of JT Tuimoloau played a crucial role in securing the win, as he recorded eight tackles, three for a loss, two sacks, two interceptions (including a pick-six), a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery.

Day, well aware of the challenges posed by Penn State’s stout defense, would like nothing more than to establish control of the game on the ground. This matchup marks the first time that both Ohio State and Penn State meet as undefeated teams with a 6-0 record. Furthermore, it is regarded as one of the most highly anticipated Big Ten meetings since the Ohio State and Michigan clash from the previous year, which the Buckeyes lost.

However, historical records favor Ohio State in this matchup, as they have emerged victorious in their last six meetings against Penn State and have won 10 out of the last 11 encounters. To secure a win, both Buckeyes quarterback Kyle McCord and Nittany Lions quarterback Drew Allar, an Ohio native, will need to deliver top-notch performances. However, even exceptional showings from these young quarterbacks might not be enough, given the strength of the defenses on both sides.

Allar has displayed excellent ball security, throwing zero interceptions and recording 12 passing touchdowns (16 total) in 181 attempts. Although he only has one 300-yard passing game to his name, his efficiency has been commendable. On the other hand, McCord has achieved two 300-yard passing performances, throwing for 11 touchdowns and just one interception in 170 attempts. With the support of standout receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who is on pace for an impressive season, the Buckeyes offense may have the edge in the passing game.

However, the key factor in this matchup revolves around Ohio State’s ability to contain Penn State’s potent rushing attack led by running backs Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen. Singleton and Allen combined for an average of 121 rushing yards per game and have scored nine rushing touchdowns collectively. Whether Ohio State has the defensive prowess to neutralize Penn State’s ground game remains a critical question, especially considering how Michigan exploited the Buckeyes’ defense in the previous season.

With high stakes on the line, this matchup between Ohio State and Penn State serves as a de facto College Football Playoff play-in game. The winner will position themselves for a crucial battle against Michigan for Big Ten supremacy and the opportunity to establish themselves as a top-five team. Interestingly, Penn State did not receive any votes for the No. 1 spot in the AP Top 25 rankings this week, while Ohio State received just one. The outcome of this game will provide clarity to these rankings and solidify the position of the victor as a legitimate title contender.

In summary, Ohio State’s ability to establish a successful running game against Penn State’s formidable defense will be pivotal in determining the outcome of this highly anticipated matchup. While both teams boast talented quarterbacks and effective passing games, the ability to control the line of scrimmage and limit the opponent’s rushing attack will likely play a crucial role in securing victory. Both Ohio State and Penn State will aim to make a statement in this pivotal Big Ten clash, with the winner positioning themselves for future success on a national scale.