Ohio State vs. Penn State: Will Buckeyes’ Run Game Excel Against Jim Knowles?

The upcoming clash between Ohio State and Penn State is generating significant buzz as both teams prepare for a pivotal matchup. Ohio State’s offensive coordinator, Jim Knowles, now with Penn State, is a major storyline that adds intrigue to this Saturday’s game. The contest will start at noon ET at Ohio Stadium and will be broadcasted on Fox.

Ohio State’s Run Game Performance

Ohio State’s rushing performance has been under scrutiny this season. The Buckeyes are averaging 151 rushing yards per game but have struggled in their most recent contests. Over the past two games, their average dropped to just 102 yards per game. This is a noticeable decline from last season when they averaged 166 yards per game with standout backs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins leading the way.

• Four runs over 20 yards: Ohio State ranks No. 119 nationally for explosive rushing plays this season.
• Blocking issues: The team has faced challenges with offensive execution and break downs in blocking schemes.
• Key players: Freshman Bo Jackson, leading the team with 433 rushing yards, along with West Virginia transfer CJ Donaldson, are crucial to Ohio State’s ground strategy.

Penn State’s Defense Struggles

Penn State’s defense has faced its challenges, particularly during a four-game losing streak. The Nittany Lions are allowing an average of 200 rushing yards per game during this stretch. They have given up 12 runs of over 20 yards for the entire season.

As the Buckeyes look to regain their offensive rhythm, they must navigate against a Penn State defense that is currently struggling:

• Defensive vulnerabilities: Penn State has the third-worst rushing defense in the Big Ten.
• Previous matchups: Their recent matchup against Iowa, where they allowed 245 rushing yards, exposed significant flaws in defensive schemes.

Game Prediction and Strategy

Despite the current turmoil at Penn State, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day remains cautious. He acknowledges that the Nittany Lions still boast a roster filled with talent.

With the addition of redshirt freshman Ethan Grunkemeyer taking the lead for Penn State, Ohio State’s defense will aim to capitalize on this transition and create pressure. If Ohio State can effectively shut down the run, it will force Grunkemeyer into tough third-and-long situations.

Day believes that this matchup will be crucial for both teams, stating the importance of preparation and execution will reign supreme. Given the recent struggles of Penn State’s passing and running attacks, Ohio State is poised to control the tempo of the game.

The prediction for the game suggests a solid performance from Ohio State. With both defense and offense in their corners, the Buckeyes are expected to maintain their dominance, leading to a potential scoreline of 31-7 in favor of Ohio State.