Ohio State preview

I'm not big on overanalyzing and predicting.  They are still fun to read and there are plenty out there.  Others are better at it than me.

My thoughts were established about a week ago and they will not change at gametime.  I have watched Ohio State games this year and all of Michigan's games.

1.  OSU's defense is vulnerable to the run and Michigan is good at it.  Karan Higdon is an "A" back and Chris Evens and Tru Wilson are dangerous too as alternates.  In this game Shea Patterson will run also and that makes it even more dependable.  Against Ohio State Michigan is likely to gash for 4 and 5 consistently and break some big ones.

I don't know how Michigan's passing fits in because I'm not an offensive coordinator in the slightest.  But other teams have gashed the Buckeyes for big plays.  There is a good chance Michigan will figure out a way to do it too.  And, if they are stopped in the red zone, Jake Moody is a great weapon to put up some points.

2.  Dwayne Haskins is a very good quarterback--I think he can be great with more experience and weapons around him--but he cannot do it by himself.  Especially against Michigan's speedy defense, I expect him to make a few mistakes and suffer some sacks.  The Ohio State run game is not likely to lead the way, even with backup QB Tate Martell.  It is possible that Ohio State will put up more yards and touchdowns than anyone else this year, but it will not be enough to win the game.

3.  I don't know what is going on with Urban Meyer and Ohio State.  Michigan has been relatively healthy all year and they are in good shape--they have a 10 game winning streak and not a lot of distractions, scandals, or rumors.  I think they are a little more confident and upbeat at this stage of the season.  It is not about past failures or anything else, Michigan, if both teams play as they have showed all season, is the better team.

Assuming poor weather and a low scoring game, Michigan 27 Ohio State 17.