The Silver Bulletin’s staff makes their Week 3 predictions for an in-state matchup between The Ohio State Buckeyes and Ohio Bobcats.
Dave: Ohio State wins 42-17
Blake: There is a lot of intrigue to this game as it is an in-state showdown between the Buckeyes and Bobcats. OHIO STATE will get Ohio’s best shot. The Bobcats are coming off of an impressive 17-10 win over West Virginia, so both teams have notched big wins to open the year. Ohio State will survive the early waves and punches and out-muscle and out-talent Ohio. Julian Sayin will have another big game, and the defense plays strong and fast. I like a big day from the linebackers. Ohio State 45 Ohio 10
Dan: Ohio University comes out of the gate hot and scores a touchdown against the Buckeyes. The Ohio State offense methodically marches down the field against a pesky OU defense that loves to play zone. I expect James Peoples to get involved early and often in this one in a concerted effort to establish the run. By halftime the Buckeyes will be in command. Buckeyes roll 49-14 despite a valiant first quarter from the Bobcats.
Cass: In what should be a fun one in “the shoe” Saturday Night between instate rivals Buckeyes will contain Parker Navarro and prevent the Bobcats to move the ball. I think Ohio State offense struggles early because Ohio will bring it but they will pull away in the final three quarters. Buckeyes win 59-14
Carson H: This game will be a good middle ground challenge for the Buckeyes after playing one of the hardest opponents and one of the easiest opponents in the first two games. The Ohio Bobcats will be a good opportunity to continue building on what this team wants their identity to be. Ohio has had two battles against Power 4 opponents, and I could see them slowing down a little in this game.
The Bobcats have been a fun team to watch this season, but there is a big talent gap, and the Buckeyes have looked as good as any team in the entire country. I expect Sayin to continue to sling the ball to his elite weapons, and the offense to continue to figure out the workload with the different running backs. The defense should force another turnover or two and slow down the dual-threat quarterback for the Bobcats, leading to a comfortable victory in the Shoe in front of the gray-out crowd, along with the stripes in the student section. Ohio State 45 Ohio 10
TJ: The big key for Ohio State defense this week is keeping Parker Navarro in the pocket and not letting him create plays with his legs. He did that against both Rutgers and West Virginia. On offense we have the better playmakers on the perimeter. Get them the ball early and often and continue the Jeremiah Smith Heisman campaign. Ohio State 38-7
AJ: Ohio State wins 67-0
