The second College Football Playoff semifinal game kicks off New Year’s Day at 8:30 p.m. ET, and the Buckeyes have one major challenge on each side of the ball. TCU, Baylor, and Ohio State had resumes that were difficult to separate. In the end, the fact that they were so close made it appear to some observers that the selection committee might’ve grabbed the ratings monster Ohio State Buckeyes over private Christian schools in Texas because of its bigger fanbase. However, there was also the eye test over the final stretch of the season. Evidence suggested that the Buckeyes were actually a legitimate power that was rounding into form with a new defensive coordinator and an offense that was coming together thanks to an improving passing game. After third-string QB Cardale Jones went 12-of-17 for 257 passing yards on a highly ranked Wisconsin D while the Buckeye defense shut down Melvin Gordon, it became undeniable that this team is one of the most athletic groups in the nation. Now they draw the imposing Alabama. Is Urban Meyer’s Ohio State roster ready to resume his epic battle with Nick Saban? Our Sugar Bowl sites Ohio St. Buckeyes Alabama Crimson Tide Our Sugar Bowl sites Ohio St. Buckeyes blog Land-Grant Holy Land Alabama Crimson Tide blog Roll ‘Bama Roll 1. Run on Alabama Alabama has something close to its classic formula, with a dominant defensive line and solid offensive line, augmented by Heisman finalist WR Amari Cooper, increased use of tempo, and QB Blake Sims’ athleticism, a trait previous Saban QBs didn’t possess. Even with Lane Kiffin’s overhauled offense, the Tide’s defense is still its identity, but barely (No. …
Continue Reading: The 2 battles Ohio State has to win to upset Alabama in the Sugar Bowl
