Ohio State returns to action after their final bye week of the season, and are hosting a Nebraska team that just got throttled by Indiana. Here are our top 5 questions going into this game.

1. How effective will Ohio State’s offensive line play?

Josh Simmons was hurt during the Oregon game is likely out for the rest of the year, and Ryan Day mentioned that Zen Michalski will fill in at left tackle, which shows the confidence this staff has in him to fill in a critical spot. The last stretch of the season will get much tougher for the Buckeyes, who have two top 15 teams on their schedule, and Nebraksa has a decent defensive line, but the offensive line is the key to Ohio State’s success in staying on schedule.

2. Will we see more pressure from the defensive line?

PFF might state that Ohio State is one of the higher pressure rate teams in the country on defense, but to not even record a sack against Oregon was a critical issue, and one that needs to be addressed. I am hoping we see more creativity with scheme and pressure this off-week as even Nick Saban called out how antiquated the Buckeyes rush looked against the Ducks.

3. How much will Quinshon Judkins play?

It was reported that Judkins had a procedure done on his wrist that will not impact his time on the field, but at the same time, knowing what is in front of them, do they want to let him heal a little more for one more week. I think we see Judkins in for a few plays or series just to see him in live contact, but with Penn State next week, keep everyone you can as healthy as possible I expect a big day either in the passing game, or a heavy dose of Henderson and Peoples at running back.

4. Can the Buckeyes get off to a fast start?

Nebraska is a decent team with a 5-0 record, with two losses to two ranked teams in Illinois and Indiana. The Buckeyes are coming off their bye and will need to pick up the tempo and speed to shake off any bye week rust. I think if they can handle the Cornhuskers as Indiana did, and force them to be one-dimensional with needing to pass the ball, will that allow the Buckeyes to dictate the game even more.

5. How does the secondary respond?

Against Oregon, Ohio State gave up too many big plays and Denzel Burke did not have his best game as a Buckeye. How does this group respond and live up to their BIA mantra? Additionally, will we see Jermaine Matthews Jr get involve more in the pass coverage if Lathan Ransom is not fully healthy.

What are your top questions entering the game?

Photo Credit – Adam Cairns | The Columbus Dispatch