With a victory in the Big Ten title game this Saturday, No. 2 Ohio State will likely punch its ticket to Pasadena, Calif. for a trip to the BCS National Championship Game.
Standing in the way of that reality is No. 10 Michigan State and its relentless defense.
The Spartans rank first nationally in total defense, giving up just 238 yards while holding their opponents to fewer than 12 points per game. That domination has lifted Michigan State to the top of the Legends Division and arranged a date with the unbeaten Buckeyes this Saturday in Indianapolis.
Ohio State will challenge the Spartans with one of the most dynamic offenses in the country. The Buckeyes are averaging more than 538 yards of total offense and 48 points per game, both of which rank inside the top six nationally.
Michigan State hasn’t given up more than 28 points in a single game while Ohio State hasn’t failed to eclipse 30 points all season.
Needless to say, it will be strength vs. strength when these two battle for the Big Ten title.
In last year’s meeting, Michigan State dictated the pace, forcing the uptempo Buckeyes into a defensive slugfest. Ohio State came out with a 17-16 victory, though, despite the Spartans forcing Ohio State out of its comfort zone.
According to Doug Lesmerises of the Plain Dealer, Urban Meyer thinks his Buckeyes have grown into a much more explosive offense this season:
I’m not taking anything away from Michigan State because they are excellent. But we’re a much…
Continue Reading: Ohio State Football: Buckeyes Gearing Up for Tough Michigan State Defense
