Grading the Bucks--Week 1: Buffalo

Offense: B+
OSU started the 2013 season with an explosive first quarter in which the offense was clicking on all cylinders.  Then the wall was hit. Don't get me wrong, Khalil Mack is an absolute beast that will play on Sunday, but I felt there was a complete let down after the first quarter.  Miller's passes looked crisp and much improved, but he was quick to escape the pocket (and not run downfield) when pressure loomed. Jordan Hall looked very strong, but the interior offensive line blocked very well.  Taylor Decker needs to get a lot better (even though Bell was most of his issue).  The interception was a total brainfart on Miller's part and the fumble by Wilson was a growing pain, but the turnovers were second to the subexplosive burst after the first quarter.  I'd like to see more of Devin Smith in the passing game as well.  Buffalo couldn't defend the deep pass...go to the well.

Defense: B
For how green this defense was, it was not that bad.  For most of the day, the defense had one returning starter (Bryant--Shazier was out for a good portion).  Overall, they did fine against the dink and dump offense.  This dump off offense is the great equalizer which Buffalo utilized fairly well.  Nuetz is a very good receiver that just pushed Armani Reeves around.  That will happen with the youth.  The defense gave up 13 points...not that bad, especially with the short field given up by the questionable coaching decisions.

Special Teams: B
Philly Brown woke up some echoes of Ray Small (not a good thing).  He couldn't seem to catch the ball cleanly which was so frustrating.  Wilson looked very explosive on his big kick return which leads to great thoughts for the future.  No missed kicks.  The punter needs a little more distance, but the hangtime was fantastic. 

Coaching: B-
Most love it, but I hate it...no reason to go for 2, 2x against Buffalo.  Stop it.  The ONLY argument is to get it on film and try it in a real game.  Still, it's Buffalo.  More frustrating was the 4th down call on our side of the field with a solid lead.  Going for it is fun and exciting, but sometimes, it's just not the right call.  That was one of those times.  Offense is exciting, but the defensive players have to be angry about being put behind the eight ball with the lead.  I know that I'm contradicting myself since it's Buffalo and we should beat them off the ball, but that's asking a lot, especially with Mack on the other side of the ball.

Overall: B
Solid win; plenty of teachable moments; exactly what a coach desires.  The Bucks will be fine, but don't pretend we've learned anything of real value yet.  Lots of season remains.