Saturday Spotlight
(3) Ohio State Buckeyes at (18) Penn State Nittany Lions
Ohio State: Early on in their opener, they looked flat. I can probably bet that many thought they would get everything they could handle from the Nebraska Cornhuskers, right? Not necessarily. After seeing that first touchdown they allowed, I knew they would settle in and they did. These Buckeyes are the best team in the Big Ten and it isn’t even close at this point. Justin Fields had as close to a perfect day at the office as he only had one incompletion. The defense didn’t look bad either on its side. All in all, Ryan Day’s group is going to be a tough group to face as the season goes on. Everything is in place for them to make a run for a title. The quarterback, the potent offense, the fast defense, and the coaching. Tonight, they’ll be in Happy Valley for a showdown with a divisional rival.
Penn State: When I was on the radio last Wednesday, I said that their game against the Indiana Hoosiers was one that they couldn’t take lightly. I keep saying it and I will continue to repeat myself. Focus on who’s in front of you at that particular moment. Don’t worry about that big opponent awaiting you because no matter what happens, they will still be there on your schedule. Look at the Nittany Lions stats, Sean Clifford left everything on the field for his team. Now, I’m all for a quarterback running the ball, but not 17 times. That’s exactly what he did in the upset loss to Indiana. That’s such a disappointing defeat. You cannot take any team you face too lightly. Now, they welcome a strong Buckeyes team to town tonight for their home opener.
Ohio State X-Factor: Trey Sermon– I see him making his presence felt in time. In addition to his production on the field, he will bring his veteran savviness to this Buckeyes offense. What I’ve always enjoyed about Trey’s game is how he stays within his lane.
Penn State X-Factor: Shaka Toney– He becomes their unquestioned leader and anchor of the defense because Micah Parsons opted out. Shaka is an all-around defensive end that can stuff the run and rush the passer. He does more than enough to make his presence felt.
Final Thoughts: This matchup always gets my attention. The winner of this game usually ends up playing in Indianapolis in the Big Ten title game. For Penn State, making Fields uncomfortable is key. Move him out of the pocket and make him run. If Indiana moved the ball down the field on Penn State, these Buckeyes will as well. There may be some new pieces but watch when they all come together.
Prediction: Ohio State 40 Penn State 21
