The Ohio State football team looks to continue its undefeated season on Saturday against Maryland ahead of The Game.

The Ohio State football is staring down a looming winner-take-all matchup with archrival Michigan in less than two weeks. But first, the Buckeyes travel to College Park to take on the Maryland Terrapins. Due to injuries, Ohio State received contributions from Dallan Hayden, Xavier Johnson, and others down the depth chart. Watch for those players to get more reps this week as well.

Preview

Ohio State is coming off a blowout victory over Indiana as the Buckeyes handed the Hoosiers a 56-14 defeat. Ryan Day promoted a balanced and efficient offense as his team ran and threw for more than 300 yards each. The Ohio State running game was probably the best it has been all season last Saturday, which is exactly what Buckeye Nation wants to see heading into the final Saturday. 

The best story of the game and season, however, was Kamryn Babb catching his first career pass for a touchdown. His score was the culmination of determination and hard work — there was not a dry eye in the building. It was an incredibly touching moment for the Ohio State captain that will highlight this season for many. 

Ohio State’s offense scores nearly 47 points per game while averaging 502 yards of offense. Whereas Maryland’s defense surrenders 381 yards per contest, so it appears the Buckeyes will not have issues moving the football. CJ Stroud and company have won eleven games straight behind a prolific offensive attack. The Buckeyes are the most dynamic passing offense in the country; however, I anticipate a healthy dose of the running game on Saturday. 

Historically, the winner of Ohio State vs. Michigan is the team that rushes for more yards. There has to be an emphasis on toughness and downhill running for Ohio State. The key will be the offensive line moving up the field instead of laterally where they have lost leverage and not been as effective. 

Prediction

Maryland’s quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa could potentially give the Silver Bullets fits on Saturday with his arm talent and escapability. It will be a formidable test ahead of facing JJ McCarthy next week. As for this week, the Buckeyes have to avoid peeking ahead and slipping up in College Park. Ryan Day is not looking for an encore or redo of the 2018 game against Maryland. This year’s Ohio State football team is much more complete than four years ago, so do not anticipate trouble. 

I like Ohio State to win on Saturday and cover the 27.5-point spread. The Buckeyes stay hot and win 55-17.