Ohio State played a above average game, but still handled Penn State, and earned a big resume win against previously 3rd ranked Penn State. The first CFP rankings will be revealed tomorrow, and the Buckeyes shift gears to play the last ranked team in the Big Ten in Purdue. Here are our top 5 questions going into this game.

1. Is this the offensive line moving forward?

With Zen Michalski out, Donovan Jackson moved over to left tackle, and Carson Hinzman started at left guard, after starting at center for nearly every game last season, and the side of the line looked good. The Buckeyes have two weeks now to where they can gel even more before the get to Indiana and Michigan, and a potential rematch against Oregon in the Big Ten Championship game. Even with the health of Michalski an option later on, do the Buckeyes stick with this combo moving forward?

2. Where will the Buckeyes be ranked?

Ohio State was ranked third in both Coaches and AP poll, but the biggest story will be the first College Football Playoff rankings poll. If the CFP matches or is close to the AP, then Ohio State would be ranked third, but with the new format of the playoff, that would place Ohio State as the 5th seed, with Oregon, Georgia, Miami, and BYU the likely 1st to 4th seed.

3. Is this a trap game?

2018 was not that long ago, and the Buckeyes are entering this game after an emotional win against Penn State. At that time, Purdue shocked the Buckeyes, and it ultimately cost them a chance for the College Football Playoff. Will this team be able to refocus and not get caught sleep walking like what happened during that version of the game, and just as recently, the game against Nebraska. 

4. Did the defense do enough?

The defense did not allow a touchdown and held Penn State under 300 yards. It was a greta game plan, but the question will be if this is caliber of defense that can win them a national championship. I think the biggest opportunity still is with getting a rush against the QB, and creating pressure to keep the opposing offense off the field. 

5. Is Will Howard the answer?

Will Howard played his worst game but still made enough plays to help win the game. He cant have that kind of game against a better opponent, or it could end up costing the Buckeyes. I think Will Howard is a good quarterback and plays with a lot of heart, and I think he will be fine the rest of the way. 

What are your top questions entering the game?

Photo Credit – Scott Taetsch | Getty Images