The Ohio State Buckeyes came out on top against Navy last week, with a 34-17 victory.
This week, the Buckeyes host the Virginia Tech Hokies in their home opener. Virginia Tech is fresh off a season opening victory of their own, defeating William & Mary 34-9.
Records:
Ohio State: 1-0
Virginia Tech: 1-0
Last Meeting: No previous meetings between schools
Key Stat: The Buckeyes gave up a whopping 370 rushing yards to Navy last week. Although they won the game, Ohio State had fewer first downs and less time of possession than the Midshipmen.
Ohio State Outlook: Without quarterback Braxton Miller, the Buckeyes face a tough task of holding onto their top 10 ranking all season. The good news is that freshman quarterback J.T. Barrett looks like he has the offense in good hands.
Barrett passed for 226 yards and two scores in his NCAA debut, helping the Buckeyes offense post 420 yards and 34 points.
Virginia Tech Outlook: The Hokies come into this game as underdogs, but after a strong showing last week, Virginia Tech has its sights on knocking off the Buckeyes on the road.
Junior quarterback Michael Brewer had a nice performance, finishing with 251 yards and two scores. Adding to the offense was freshman running back Shai McKenzie, who posted 106 yards and a touchdown.
What to watch for: Despite the victory, Ohio State dropped from 5th to 8th in the standings, showing that the win over Navy did not go far in calming the doubts surrounding the Miller-less Buckeyes.
Barrett and the offense will have to keep it up against a tougher Virginia Tech squad. Look for the Hokies to send pressure at the freshman, hoping to force him into a mistake or two.
Ohio State will be looking to get on the board early and often as they need to impress the voters with a strong performance to vault back into the top 5 this week.
What they're saying - Ohio State:
Buckeye run game relies on Elliott, Smith, Samuel (Akron Beach Journal)
Buckeyes excited to face more traditional offense (Eleven Warriors)
What they're saying - Virginia Tech:
Can Hokies run on Ohio State? (Gobbler Country)
Shai McKenzie honored by ACC (Hokiesports.com)
Prediction:
Ohio State - 30, Virginia Tech - 20
The Buckeyes should have enough of an offensive performance to hold off Virginia Tech at home, but after struggling early with Navy, Ohio State needs to take the Hokies seriously to avoid the upset.
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