Recap

Ohio State took care of business against Purdue, and won a controlled game 45-0, for their second shutout on the season. The defense has not allowed a touchdown now in nearly 9 quarters, and look to continue that streak against Northwestern next week. The Buckeyes were still working out their offensive line with Donovan Jackson and Carson Hinzman at left tackle and guard respectfully, and for the second straight week there were no false start or mental error penalties from the “slobs.”

The defense also was working out a few new wrinkles with their formations. For the first time we saw what Jim Knowles’ defense was intended to look like with 3 down lineman and a “Jack” position hybrid linebacker/defensive end that was played by CJ Hicks and Mitchel Melton. You could tell it was new and Hicks has a few over pursuit plays that kept the Boilermakers on the field, and chewed clock away from the Buckeye offense.

This is not to know the Boilermakers, who have a lot of young talent finding their identity, but at the same time, this game had more to do with Ohio State not overlooking them and keeping their foot on their throat of their opponents.

Turning Point

The outcome of this game was never in question. The biggest moment that Purdue held Ohio State to only 21 points in the first half, but the Buckeyes were in control from start to finish. In a measurement of game control the Buckeyes can use this game as another example as why they are on of the top teams in the country.

Stars of the Game

As always, we rank the top stars of the game, with each Buckeye leaf representing a reward (3 leaves it the 1st place earner)

Lathan Ransom. Time to give Ransom his credit, the senior played amazing in this game, and had 4 tackles with the critical interception.

Will Howard. Howard had a good game overall, only throwing 5 incompletions. Outside of a turf monster which would have led to a touchdown, he continues to show his leadership on the field.

TreVeyon Henderson. Henderson played the best game of the day, averaging over 14.3 yards a touch, and had over 100 total yards with limited snaps. He continues to be a game changer in an offense stacked with them.

Playoff Picture

As expected, the Buckeyes were the highest ranked “non-conference champion” in the first poll, and were the second ranked team overall. With Georgia losing to Ole Miss, the Ducks and the Bucks are the top two teams in the country. November is about winning, and the Buckeyes are now 2-0 with 3 games left. The Buckeyes should be in the same spot on Tuesday’s rankings.

Looking Ahead

Ohio State (8-1) will travel to Wrigley Field to face off against Northwestern (4-5) at 12pm on BTN.

Purdue  (1-8) will host Penn State (7-1) on Saturday November 16.

Photo Credit: Jay LaPrete | AP