JT returns with a thoroughly mediocre performance. Some of that is attributable to one of the worst offensive line performances I've seen in while. They actually run-blocked pretty well, but the pass pro was atrocious. Chase Farris was getting embarrassed at RT routinely. I'll give some credit to the Illini D-line, but OSU should be better than that. Zeke was pretty beastly as normal so no complaints there (except with the media ignoring or minimizing his Heisman status). While JT was affected by poor line play, he also showed some issues with some fundamentals and decisions. The JT difference was the 4th and 13 scramble for the first. Even with a bad game for him, the proof is in the pudding, but next week must be better. Trust in Thomas and Co. and good things will happen in the passing game. Suggestion: get Miller more down field routes and bring Curtis Samuel in for some more scat back reception work. Be careful with those sloppy turnovers.
Defense: A
Holding any offense to 3 points in today's game is a fantastic performance, no matter the opponent (albeit a 5-4 team that few--including me--don't give much credit to). The defensive line was absolutely phenomenal. Bosa was routinely double/triple teamed and still got pressure (just ridiculous). Washington and Hubbard also added to hurrying the QB. No real worries in the game when the defense shut down the Illini offense.
Special Teams: Sigh...
I'll give credit to Cameron Johnston who had a nice rebound performance in windy Champaign, but another chippy FG missed? What else is new? We are almost at the point of going for every 4th down on the opponent's side of the field (not kidding). This is freaking Ohio State! How can we not find one guy who can effectively kick a football.
Coaching: B
I sound like a parrot: defensive coaching was great, but... Special teams are still useless and the offensive playcalling is still shaky. Watching the O-line get beat up (especially on the right side) seems to necessitate more running plays (particularly read options), but the game plan never seemed to adapt. Zeke routinely got 8-10 yards a carry, and there wasn't a concerted effort to continue to feed him on early downs. Finally, I'm baffled by the lack of Braxton Miller running routes down field. He's proven the ability to make really nice catches, but most of the time, he's relegated to quick screens. He's no longer a QB, throw him the ball--and stop the stupid wildcat garbage.
Overall: B
Illinois may not be great, but the record says 5-5 which isn't terrible. OSU won comfortably, but we still haven't hit the stride. I think the world is waiting for the Buckeyes to finally reach a glimpse of their potential. This wasn't it, but it wasn't a Bengals style collapse on MNF either. Next week is a test. Time to step up and pass with flying colors.
Officials: Woof
Two horrible reviews that weren't overturned that were CLEAR. JT was clearly in the endzone which cost the Bucks 7 early (no excuses...score on the next play and don't be stupid--like we were) and an obvious Zeke fumble in which the replay official (and on field official) didn't see the ball on the ground with Zeke still upright. I have no clue how these people have jobs.
Overall: B
Illinois may not be great, but the record says 5-5 which isn't terrible. OSU won comfortably, but we still haven't hit the stride. I think the world is waiting for the Buckeyes to finally reach a glimpse of their potential. This wasn't it, but it wasn't a Bengals style collapse on MNF either. Next week is a test. Time to step up and pass with flying colors.
Officials: Woof
Two horrible reviews that weren't overturned that were CLEAR. JT was clearly in the endzone which cost the Bucks 7 early (no excuses...score on the next play and don't be stupid--like we were) and an obvious Zeke fumble in which the replay official (and on field official) didn't see the ball on the ground with Zeke still upright. I have no clue how these people have jobs.
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