Observations on the first half with Ohio State, 9-17

Ohio State converted two red zones for 10 points; Michigan converted one red zone for 3 points. The Wolverines scored 3 points off one Buckeye turnover.

Offense was poor! Offense could only gain 124 net yards with 108 on the ground. Jordan Marshall ran 4 times for 61 yards, but left the game after reinjuring his shoulder. Bryson Kuzdzal ran 10 times for 38 yards. Bryce Underwood hit 3 of 5 for 16 yards, and ran 5 times for 9 yards. Offense could only muster 1 of 5 in 3rd down conversions with 6 first downs. Jaylen McClain led the Buckeyes with 5 tackles.

Defense had a good first quarter, but lousy second quarter. The Buckeyes rolled for 221 net yards with 76 on the ground; they were 6 of 8 in 3rd and 4th down conversions with 12 first downs. Julian Sayin hit 13 of 17 for 145 yards and 2 TDs with one interception by Jyaire Hill. We had no pressure or pass rush on Saying. Bo Jackson ran 12 times for 77 yards and caught 3 passes for 37 yards. Carnell Tate caught 3 passes for 25 yards. Jeremiah Smith caught 2 passes for 36 yards including a 35 yard TD that should have been ruled a touchback. Will Kacmarek caught 2 passes for 30 yards. Brandon Inniss caught 2 passes for 12 yards and a TD. Time of possession was won by the Buckeyes with nearly 3 minutes that resulted in 9 more offensive plays. Jimmy Rolder led the defense with 6 tackles. We lost Mason Curtis with injury early in the game.

Special Teams were no factor. Kudos to Dominic Zvada for hitting all 3 field goal attempts. Hollenbeck only punted once for 48 yards, and Inniss ran it back 15 yards.

Second Half needs to begin with a Buckeye stop, and an offensive drive to tie the score. Then, we could have a 4th quarter game. We are going to need to pressure Sayin and get at least one more turnover to win this one. Go Blue!