quote:
FALSE.

For 3 reasons:

1) Ohio State is soft. Good teams like Michigan & Georgia pounded tOSU in the 2nd half / 4Q.

A misconception that Buckeye fans have is that DC Knowles has really improved their defense. Statistically, it looks that way, but the truth is the Buckeyes played weaker offensive opponents, for example, last year, they played Iowa & NW — the 2 worst offenses in the BIG10 — rather than Purdue & Neb in 2021.

Furthermore, the 6 common teams they played in 2021 & 2022 all (except Rutgers) scored more points in 2022 vs tOSU. How’s that improvement?

2) tOSU replaces the center, both tackles & the QB, and Day still hasn’t settled on a QB. Whoever it is, he won’t have as much time for decisions as Stroud got. And it’s anyone’s guess how well they’ll run block.

3) tOSU’s special teams suck. And they just gave the ST coordinator Fleming a 200K raise. Bravo! They had 2 failed fake punts vs UM & GA; no kickoff or punt returns for TDs (with all that talent); iirc, they had an extra point blocked for a scoop & score by Maryland; & let’s not forget that horrendous FG attempt to lose the Peach.

They easily lose 2 games. And if Bama, who shares some similar issues, also loses 2 games — we’ll see them both in the Citrus. Would be a great game.

Can't disagree with most of this. The run defense does need to get more stout. Hopefully a year more of the DL developing will cure that.

The latest reports on the offensive line have been good but you're right. Replacing two tackles (one an AA) and the center is a tough task.

I wouldn't say the special teams suck but they have been decidedly average for a while.

Yeah, 2 losses could happen and particulalarly so if the new quarterback doesn't perform up to standards. He easily has the best wide receiver room in the ocountry to throw to but unless he's protected and can get the ball out on time and properly placed those elite wide receivers become worth much less in the offense.

The thing that could help is that Henderson is finally at full health again and a strong running game will take pressure off of the quarterback. My .02 for what it's worth.