Eric Boggs
Through the first six games of the season, Ohio State’s offense has been a force, racking up 2,606 total yards, including 1,557 through the air and 1,049 on the ground. With an average of 7.8 yards per play, they’ve maintained possession for about 30 minutes and 38 seconds per game. However, there are areas where the Buckeyes can still improve, and the defense, despite a strong start, has shown cracks.
Offensive Performance: A- Overall
Cory’s Grade: A-
Cory graded the offense at an A-, acknowledging that while the Buckeyes have performed well, there is room for improvement. He pointed out the need for more involvement from the tight ends, like G. Scott, and expressed concerns about how the offense might adjust without Jimmy Simmons on the line. However, he praised Will Howard for exceeding expectations, especially in his standout performance against Oregon.
Chris’ Grade: A-
Chris shared similar thoughts, citing the need for more utilization of Ohio State’s running backs and tight ends in the passing game. He noted that despite Howard’s ability to stretch the field, his true accuracy shines within 20 yards, and using more short passing plays to backs and tight ends could help Ohio State’s offense become even more efficient.
Eric’s Grade: A
Eric was the most generous in his grading, giving the offense an A. He praised the offensive line for performing better than expected and highlighted Will Howard’s steady play as a key factor in the Buckeyes’ success. Like Chris and Cory, Eric would like to see more depth emerge at wide receiver but felt confident in Ohio State’s overall offensive firepower.
Defensive Struggles: Mixed Grades
Cory’s Grade: C
Cory’s assessment of the defense was less forgiving, handing out a C due to their lackluster performance against Oregon. He criticized the lack of creativity in the pass rush, mentioning that rushing just four linemen wasn’t enough. He also pointed to Denzel Burke’s struggles in that game as a key factor in the defensive meltdown, despite a strong start to the season.
Chris’ Grade: C-
Chris was even harsher, grading the defense at a C-. He emphasized how the defense dominated weak competition in the first five games but collapsed against their first real challenge. Like Cory, he called out the lack of pass rush creativity and expressed concern about the defensive scheme.
Eric’s Grade: B
Eric was more optimistic, grading the defense at a B. While he acknowledged their poor performance against Oregon, he emphasized that Ohio State’s defense had been statistically dominant before that game and is still ranked among the top units in the country. He believes the coaching staff has the potential to turn things around, although Chris expressed his doubts about Ryan Day and Jim Knowles.
Ohio State will need to make adjustments, especially on defense, as they prepare for the second half of the season. If the offense continues its strong play and the defense shores up its weaknesses, the Buckeyes could be in great shape for a strong finish.
