OK. Believe it or not, Ohio State’s game against Indiana has some real meaning. Somewhat shockingly, the undefeated Hoosiers sit in first place in the Big Ten East Division courtesy of having dodged any schedule snafus related to the coronavirus. The Buckeyes, also undefeated, have one less game because of Maryland’s issues with the virus.
So off we go in a game not many circled on the calendar as being important for not only the Big Ten race, but on the national scale too. In fact, Saturday, Columbus will be the epicenter of the college football world as the only top ten matchup coming to a television or streaming device near you at high noon on FOX.
It’s so big, the Big Noon Kickoff Show featuring former Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer will be broadcasting live from Ohio Stadium.
As we do every week, we asked our writers to weigh in on what they think will happen with the game. Let’s see if everyone is in agreement, or if someone will go out on a limb and pick the Hoosiers to do the unthinkable.
Next … the predictions
Contact/Follow Phil Harrison
Ohio State 42, Indiana 27
I don’t believe this one will be a runaway win like the betting lines and other media members are calling for. Indiana has a dynamic playmaker at quarterback and the Buckeyes have shown some warts on the back-end of the defense.
Indiana will hang around, but as the game progresses, the depth of Ohio State will wear down a Hoosier team that doesn’t have enough talent deep into the roster to not tire out and sputter a bit in the second half. I’m calling for a fourth-quarter game before the Buckeyes make it look like an easy win.
Contact/Follow Mark Russell
Ohio State 52, Rutgers 34
In late September, Michael Penix Jr. spoke to media and claimed Indiana could shock the world when playing Penn State, Michigan and Ohio State. So far, he and the Hoosiers are two for two. Can Penix Jr. complete the trifecta?
I don’t believe they will. Ohio State is too strong on the offensive side of the ball and Indiana will not be able to keep pace. However, Indiana will put up points, and don’t be shocked if the Hoosiers are within striking distance midway through the third quarter.
Ultimately, Ohio State overpowers the upstart Hoosiers and their time in the top ten is short-lived.
Contact/Follow Dan Ruppert
Ohio State 51, Rutgers 27
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