Grading the Bucks: Week 6--Cincinnati

Sorry this is late (and a bit brief) but I was grading actual students this week.

Offense: A
JT looked phenomenal again. The line is giving him time (albeit against weaker competition) but his passes have been right on the mark.  I'm loving the progression in his decision making.  Let's not forget about Zeke and a 'Carlos-Hyde-esque' performance.  The offense of the Buckeyes continues to improve and should keep the train rolling until we face a decent defense (good news: we shouldn't face a decent defense until MSU).  I will say this, Barrett's passing has already surpassed Braxton's which could make for an interesting competition next year.  FBS record 45 first downs? Achievement unlocked!

Defense: C+/B-
Whoa! This seems awfully generous for a team that gave up some absolutely crazy deep passes (especially right before the half). Let's look at the game as a whole.  The defense was actually pretty good against a very solid Bearcats team with some absolutely horrid plays mixed in.  The pass play at the end of the half was completely inexcusable....completely ridiculous.  There is no excuse to fail at this crucial moment.  Removing the lapses in coverage on the 3 deep passes, the defense was really good.  Those lapses don't happen in a vacuum so they matter, but I choose to look at some positives.  The safety play is the number 1 position that cannot have these 'oops' plays....and they had 3.  Time to fix that, but a lot to like other than those plays.  Oh yeah, Joey Bosa killed a guy.  He should probably lay low for awhile.

Special Teams: B+
Pretty low with no mistakes, but nothing of note happened on special teams (that I can remember).  No downgrade for bad play, but no upgrade for anything special. With 45 first downs, Cameron Johnston probably got pretty bored on the sideline.

Coaching: B
Offense churned out a million yards, but those terrible breakdowns on defense were mental more than physical.  That's coaching.  I do love Urban yelling at Barrett to take charge of his team.  The response by JT showed that Urban is getting through.

Overall: B+
Great offense (other than the fumble) and good defense but can't give up 221 yards receiving to one guy on 3 catches.  The safety play must improve going forward, but Cincinnati is one of the best offenses we will face this year. Remove the mistakes, and we're in great shape moving on.