Here are five things we learned from the Ohio State Buckeyes’ 38-7 at Michigan State

Sep 29, 2024 at 10:04 AM

Buckeyes Soar Past Spartans: A Masterclass in Offensive Dominance

In a commanding display of offensive prowess, the Ohio State Buckeyes steamrolled past the Michigan State Spartans, delivering a resounding 38-7 victory on the road. This triumph showcased the Buckeyes' ability to adapt and thrive against a formidable defensive unit, setting the stage for a season filled with promise and potential.

Unleashing the Buckeyes' Offensive Firepower

Offensive Efficiency Shines Through

The Buckeyes' offense was firing on all cylinders, cutting through the Spartans' defense with precision and efficiency. Despite the Spartans' reputation for stifling opposing offenses, the Buckeyes proved their mettle, averaging a remarkable 7.3 yards per play. This offensive onslaught was fueled by a well-balanced attack, with the backfield duo of TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins leading the charge, complemented by a cast of dynamic playmakers.The offensive line's stellar performance was a crucial factor, as they kept quarterback Will Howard protected and allowed the offense to operate seamlessly. The Buckeyes' ability to sustain long, methodical drives and capitalize on scoring opportunities demonstrated their offensive prowess and adaptability.

Quarterback's Confidence Shines Through

Head coach Ryan Day's trust in quarterback Will Howard was evident in his decision-making throughout the game. Two crucial fourth-down calls revealed Day's confidence in Howard's abilities, as the young signal-caller delivered on both occasions, showcasing his poise and decision-making under pressure.Howard's connection with wide receiver Emeka Egbuka was particularly impressive, as the duo combined for a 33-yard touchdown on a fourth-down conversion. This display of trust and execution between the quarterback and his receivers underscores the Buckeyes' offensive cohesion and the coaching staff's belief in their players.

Freshman Phenom Jeremiah Smith Emerges

Freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has quickly established himself as a key contributor in the Buckeyes' offense, particularly in the red zone. Smith's ability to make contested catches and find the end zone has been a valuable asset, as evidenced by his two touchdowns against the Spartans.The Buckeyes' efficiency in the red zone, with 15 touchdowns in 16 trips, can be partially attributed to Smith's impact. His versatility, including a 19-yard touchdown run on an end-around, showcases his diverse skill set and the coaching staff's willingness to utilize his talents in a variety of ways.

Kickoff Return Conundrum Continues

While the Buckeyes' offense was firing on all cylinders, the team's search for a consistent kickoff returner continues. The Buckeyes have rotated through multiple options, including Jayden Ballard, Brandon Inniss, and Emeka Egbuka, in an effort to find the right fit.The lack of a reliable kickoff returner has been a minor concern, as the Buckeyes have been unable to capitalize on potential field position advantages. However, this is a challenge the coaching staff is likely to address as the season progresses, ensuring the Buckeyes' special teams unit is as formidable as their offensive and defensive units.Overall, the Buckeyes' dominant performance against the Spartans serves as a testament to their offensive prowess and the coaching staff's ability to adapt and game-plan effectively. As the season continues, the Buckeyes will look to build upon this impressive victory and solidify their status as one of the top contenders in the college football landscape.