Indiana Game: Top 5 Ohio State Takeaways

Tecfai Editorial Team

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Post on Nov 24, 2024

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Indiana Game: Top 5 Ohio State Takeaways

The Ohio State Buckeyes escaped Bloomington with a hard-fought victory over Indiana, a game that offered more drama than many anticipated. While the final score might suggest a comfortable win, the performance itself revealed both strengths and weaknesses for the Buckeyes. Let's break down the top five key takeaways from this crucial Big Ten matchup.

1. The Running Game Remains a Work in Progress

While Miyan Williams showed flashes of brilliance, the Buckeyes' rushing attack wasn't as dominant as it needs to be against tougher opponents. Indiana's defense consistently clogged the holes, limiting the explosive plays Ohio State typically relies on. This inconsistency in the run game puts added pressure on the passing attack and makes the Buckeyes more predictable offensively. The coaching staff needs to address this before facing stiffer competition later in the season. Improving offensive line cohesion and play calling will be critical to unlocking the full potential of the rushing attack.

2. Defense Shows Vulnerability Against the Run

Indiana's running game, while not overpowering, managed to consistently gain yards against the Buckeye defense. This is a concerning trend, especially considering the tougher ground attacks Ohio State will encounter in the coming weeks. While the pass defense looked strong, the inability to completely shut down the run could be exploited by more potent offensive lines. Addressing this defensive weakness needs to be a top priority for the coaching staff. Film study and targeted practice drills focusing on run stopping are essential for future success.

3. CJ Stroud's Resilience Shines Through

Despite facing pressure and a less-than-stellar running game, quarterback CJ Stroud showed his composure and ability to make key throws under duress. His performance highlights his leadership and experience. While he might not have put up video game numbers, his efficiency and ability to avoid costly turnovers were crucial to securing the win. Stroud's experience proved invaluable in a game that tested the team's resilience.

4. Special Teams Needs Attention

The special teams unit, particularly the kicking game, showed inconsistency. Missed opportunities in field goal attempts and punt returns could have easily changed the outcome of a closer game. Special teams often go unnoticed until they cost a team the game, and Ohio State needs to address these issues before facing higher-stakes matchups. Consistent practice and improved execution are necessary to elevate the special teams performance.

5. Winning Ugly is Still Winning

The victory against Indiana wasn't pretty. The Buckeyes faced adversity and struggled at times to impose their will on the game. However, the ability to win a close game, even when not playing at their best, is a valuable characteristic. This experience will hopefully serve as a valuable learning opportunity, highlighting areas for improvement while reinforcing the importance of mental fortitude and determination. The team's ability to overcome challenges bodes well for future games.

Conclusion:

The Indiana game served as a valuable lesson for the Ohio State Buckeyes. While the win keeps their undefeated record intact, it revealed areas that need immediate improvement. Addressing the inconsistencies in the running game, both offensively and defensively, and tightening up special teams will be crucial for their success as the season progresses and they face more formidable opponents. The resilience shown by Stroud and the team's ability to secure a victory despite their struggles provides a positive foundation moving forward.