Ohio State defeats Marshall 45-7

Dominance. Very few people believed Marshall to be a serious competitor in this game, but the level of disparity between the two teams tonight was stunning. Ohio State came out fired up and ready to go, causing a fumble on the very first kickoff, and then putting the ball in the end zone on the fourth play of the drive with a Terrelle Pryor to DeVier Posey touchdown pass. The offensive fireworks continued with three more touchdowns being delivered before halftime, along with a defensive pick six by Brian Rolle, who had a veritable convoy of blockers paving his path to the end zone. That play was a defensive coaches' dream, proving that all those tip drills they do in practice pay off.

The second half started as quickly as the first, as Terrelle Pryor engineered a beautiful drive that ended with a 3-step drop touchdown pass to DeVier Posey. Boom Herron deserves commemoration for moving the chains on this drive, providing three separate first downs along the way. The coaches throttled down the playcalling after this, allowing the second string to get in as the second half unfolded.

Offensive Game Balls

• Terrelle Pryor- 17/25 (68%), 247 yards, 3 TDs, 0 Int. The line speaks for itself. Terrelle's performance was statistically impressive, and his physical ability was just as noteworthy. He's finally at the point where the coaches trust him with the full cadre of offensive plays. Throughout the game, he ran 3-step, 5-step, and 7-step drops from under center, along with a group of passing plays from shotgun. TP has developed to where the offensive coaching staff can implement their full vision in the gameplan, and it's a beautiful thing to watch.
• The offensive line handled a Marshall defensive line that was considered their best unit on the entire team. The overall output of the offense (529 yards, 7.8 yards per play) is indicative of the effectiveness of the offensive line. Even the second team line got into the action early in the game, as they were inserted at some point in the first quarter.
• The running backs and wide receivers produced, and in large numbers. Check out the two charts below to see just how involved the entire offensive personnel actually were.

Defensive Game Balls

• Tyler Moeller. The Tasmanian Devil was impactful, particularly on one hit that caused Brian Anderson to fumble and briefly forget where he was.
• Everyone else. Only giving up 11 first downs and 198 yards, the defense played how we thought they would. Marshall was completely outmatched, especially along the offensive line.

Special Teams Game Balls

Nobody gets a special teams game ball until the kick and punt protection units shape up. It's disturbing to have two kicks tipped, and letting one be returned for a touchdown is how you ruin great seasons.

Final Thoughts

It was a highly enjoyable game, and now we move forward against Miami next week. I am mildly concerned about the safety position, because they were not tested at all today. Marshall's inability to pass protect against the Buckeye defensive line prevented the safeties from facing any pressure in the passing game. Other than that and the special teams performance, I am pleased with everything that transpired tonight. The team looked crisp and comfortable, the coaches prepared them well, and the Horseshoe was rocking on this Thursday night. Good job, Bucks, and let's beat Miami!