The Ohio State Buckeyes are 5-0 after defeating Iowa, setting up a Top 3 showdown against the Oregon Ducks on Saturday.

Dear Fellow Buckeyes,

Ohio State stifled Iowa 35-7 on Saturday, handling its business well. It was a tale of two halves for the Buckeyes, which only led 7-0 heading into the break with two turnovers. 

The second half got off to a blazing start as Ohio State scored on its first four possessions. Emeka Egbuka hauled in three touchdowns, cementing the hat trick against a stingy Hawkeye defense. Will Howard recovered nicely with a precise third quarter completed by his stable of running backs. 

TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins had phenomenal afternoons, averaging 5.5 and 6.0 yards per carry, respectively. Howard was heavily involved in the ground game, carrying the ball ten times and scoring a touchdown. 

Jeremiah Smith did Jeremiah Smith things, catching four passes for 89 yards and another one-handed touchdown grab. The true freshman is outstanding and dazzles every week, which must continue against Oregon.

Many around the country, especially Ohio State fans, watched the Iowa game through the lens of “How will this team match up with Oregon?” 

The Silver Bullets impressed by limiting Iowa’s RB Kaleb Johnson to 86 yards — the bulk coming on the line scoring drive against the second team defense. Caleb Downs and Lathan Ransom anchored the defense as Jack Sawyer and the DL wreaked havoc, causing two fumbles. 

This week’s matchup against Oregon is one of the most highly anticipated of the season. Now a No. 2 vs. No. 3 showdown, Ohio State vs. Oregon has Game of the Year potential, similar to Alabama vs. Georgia. 

Oregon started the season quiet and slowly in tight contests with Idaho and Boise State. However, the Ducks have flown under the radar since, putting together a solid 5-0 record. Dillon Gabriel and company are playing better football. The transfer QB’s talented wide receiver group makes defending the Ducks offense difficult. 

In back-to-back weeks, Michigan State and Iowa targeted the middle of the field against Ohio State. The Buckeyes have arguably the best secondary in college football — it’s challenging to throw against this group when they are playing on the ball. Expect Oregon to try and work the middle of the field or get a linebacker in space for a mismatch. 

Defensively, the Ducks have a potent defensive line and pass rush. Ohio State’s offensive line has been one of the top stories of the season for the Buckeyes so far for the better. The trenches are a vital area to watch and will more likely than not decide the outcome of the ball game. 

In a hostile environment, look for Chip Kelly to run the ball early and lean on the offensive line and running backs. Will Howard should also be involved, but I see heavy play action for a big play coming at some point in the game. 

Chip Kelly’s creativity will be on full display on Saturday. I believe the weapons of Ohio State will outduel Oregon in a thrilling game. Kickoff is set for 7:30 ET/4:30 PT live on NBC.