We’re starting back up a weekly hot topic piece that we used to do on Buckeyes Wire because, well — we like to debate, and can. Each Friday, we’ll throw out a topic that seems to be in the news and provide a round table forum of discussion. Sometimes it’ll be two writers, sometimes more.
You can even get in on the act by going to our Facebook or Twitter page (at the bottom of this article) and providing your own input, but beware — we do like to respond and hash it out, so be ready for some debate.
This week, we discuss what the biggest storyline has been so far with the 2019 Ohio State football season.
We’ll let Brock Netter kick it off first this time.
Next … Brock’s take
Contact/Follow Brock Netter
There’s a lot of surprises that come to mind. How Justin Fields is playing, the offensive line being so consistent despite losing four starters, Master Teague establishing himself as the future.
The list goes on and on. But for me, the defense is the biggest surprise for me. Not because it isn’t or wasn’t ever talented, it’s because of how drastic the improvement has been with different coaches.
Greg Mattsion and Al Washington, who both got torched by the Buckeyes last season while at Michigan — along with Jeff Hafley — have completely changed life in Columbus.
The defense went from giving up 51 points to Maryland last season to allowing just 53 points all season so far. From one of the worst Ohio State defenses statistically to one of the best in the last 10 years.
Guys are playing faster and look more prepared, more resembling Ohio State defenses that won BCS bowl games and national titles. It’s truly a beautiful thing to see.
Not bad for hiring two coaches from TTUN last season. Kudos to Mattison and Washington — and of course Ryan Day for having the wherewithal to go poach good coaches from the arch rival.
Next … Mark’s turn
Contact/Follow Mark Russell
It’s gotta be the play of Justin Fields, right? I mean, we knew he was highly touted coming out of high school and became the highest ranked player ever to come to Ohio State, but did anyone think he was going to play this well?
Fields has been out of this world good. Sure, he may not be putting up video game numbers like some others, but he is playing light years ahead of where he should be.
Think about it… he saw limited action last year at UGA. He transfers to Ohio State, had to learn an entire new offense, which he does well enough to win the starting job and earn the respect of teammates. Since day one, Fields has been nothing less than impressive, leading like a seasoned vet.
Don’t get me wrong, Ohio State has improved in every facet of the game from last year, but the Buckeyes simply aren’t sitting in this prime position without Justin Fields running the show.
Next … Phil wraps it up
Contact/Follow Phil Harrison
I agree with Mark. I always expected Fields to be pretty good, but it’s been his composure and decision making in a raw situation that has impressed me so far in 2019. A bit underrated is the fact that he’s not trying to do too much — he doesn’t have to.
But, coming into a situation where the quarterback was the main option in the offense last year, it would be easy to try and come in and try to make plays that simply aren’t there. Instead, he’s a part of the offense instead of being the offense.
And that’s exactly what Ohio State needs from him this year. You get the feeling he could go off at anytime and get his numbers if he really needed to, but at this point, he’s doing exactly what he’s called upon to do.
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