Stroud Leads Offensive Onslaught, Defensive Identity Crisis Continues

Credit: msn.com

The Buckeyes ousted the Purdue Boilermakers at home and it’s awesome seeing the offense operate at a high level for an entire game. The last two games definitely left more to be desired offensively and this game had a lot riding on it looking ahead to, but now it’s time to prepare for Michigan State.

The impressive part was the near perfect execution and balance of the offense and play-calling. The offensive line also came to play and showed why they are considered one of the best groups—if not the best in the nation in 2021. They did not allow a sack or get flagged for a penalty, so it was a good day for them.

Stroud was equally as impressive, slinging it for 361 yards and 5 scores, but his receivers—namely Garrett Wilson stole the show in his return after missing last weeks contest against Nebraska. He tallied 10 grabs for 126 yards and 3 scores. He also took an end around for 51 yards and a TD. Chris Olave and Jaxon Smith-Njigba also had 9 grabs and a score a piece.

The ground game came back to focus as Henderson and Williams rumbled through some tiny holes to rush for 215 yards combined and 2 scores. Williams went over 100 yards in garbage time, and as much as I wanted him to score—he looked good.

Defensively, it was another strong start but weak finish type of game. Despite the two turnovers, there was little to no pressure on O’Connell and they were nickeled and dimed the entire game with curls and swing passes along the perimeter. Yes, Bell was held to zero score but he went over 100 yards, but they need to generate more pressure along the edges and they need to stop biting on play action passes at safety.

Special teams wise, they balled out despite the limited amount of opportunities given. One FG and one punt inside of the 20 is plenty good enough for Ruggles and Mirco. The offensive game plan just flourished. But don’t discount the skills of these two specialists because when they’re needed, they’ll come through.

All in all, good performance from the Buckeyes. A well needed rekindling of our offensive potential, but an underwhelming performance from the defense for the third straight week. Coverage and block shedding should be worked on this week because Michigan State is another potent team offensively. Onto Beat Sparty week!

MOTSAG Game Grades:

  • QB: A (Efficient and on target with throws)
  • RB: A (Both hit the holes with reckless intent)
  • WR: A+ (YAC/CIT all game. Cerberus of WR’s)
  • TE: B (Blocked well despite bogus holding call)
  • OL: A- (Executed well and we’re not penalized)
  • DL: C (No block shedding/pressure/sacks)
  • LB: C (No block shedding on swing passes)
  • CB: C (Nickeled and dimed all game)
  • S: C- (Bit too much on backend coverage)
  • K: B (Limited but did not miss)
  • P: B (Limited but the offense didn’t get stalled)

#GoBucks

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