Oct 243 min read

Ohio State, Nebraska Both Look to Rebound in Big Ten Battle

Ohio State|Will Howard|Quinshon Judkins — © Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Nebraska Cornhuskers will come into Columbus, Ohio to face the No. 4 Ohio State Buckeyes on Oct. 26 at noon EST. Ohio State (5-1, 2-1 Big Ten Conference) is coming off a bye week after a tough loss to No. 1 Oregon (7-0, 4-0 B1G). Nebraska (5-2, 2-2 B1G) is also coming off of a frustrating 56-7 loss against No. 13 Indiana (7-0, 4-0 B1G). Both teams will be looking for a huge bounce-back win in a tough conference matchup.

What's at Stake?

Ohio State is still near the top of the B1G standings. It will look to run the table and make the conference title game in December. Losing on the road to the top team in the country certainly doesn't mean the program is in turmoil. However, there are clear issues that need to be addressed. It will look to make improvements while facing a tough Nebraska squad.

Nebraska's season absolutely is not over after the huge loss to the Hoosiers. Two losses near the end of October in an impressive B1G is not the end of the world. The Cornhuskers still have a lot to play for and can make a bowl game this postseason. They won't make it easy for the Buckeyes and will do everything they can to pull off an upset.

Key Players: Ohio State

Offense: Will Howard, Quarterback

Despite a crucial mistake late against Oregon where Howard didn't get down with any time left on the clock, he played an excellent game. His only other prominent error was dropping a snap on a third down in the fourth quarter. Howard was sharp aside from those two plays, throwing for 326 yards and 2 touchdowns while also scoring once on the ground. He will need to show his mental toughness after making a mistake in one of the most challenging scenarios he will ever face. His ability to continue playing well and building confidence will be crucial on Oct. 26.

Defense: Jack Sawyer, Defensive Lineman

The defensive line is simply not getting the job done. They have pressured quarterbacks, but they rarely get home. The line failed to make Oregon QB Dillon Gabriel uncomfortable at all against the Ducks. Sawyer was a highly rated prospect and he needs to find a way to make an impact. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles and defensive line coach Larry Johnson need to scheme up better ways to attack with their players. Sawyer's job will be to execute and finish the job.

Key Players: Nebraska

Offense: Dylan Raiola, Quarterback

Raiola is a young field general who has shown incredible promise so far in his first season as a freshman. He has thrown for 9 touchdowns, but also 6 interceptions. He needs to keep the turnovers to a minimum against an Ohio State defense that will be trying to make a statement. Raiola will need to stay calm and make the plays he knows he is capable of making.

Defense: Malcolm Hartzog Jr., Defensive Back

Hartzog Jr. has 3 interceptions on the season. He needs to come up with another one if the Cornhuskers want to make this one a game. Howard will still make a mistake or two throughout most games. If Hartzog Jr. can make a play to give his team an extra possession, then it will be a huge boost for his unit. He will also be lining up across from one of the various receiving threats for Ohio State all afternoon. He will have to do everything he can to prevent big plays from them.

Trends to Watch

Ohio State's defense has issues that must be figured out in order to accomplish their goals. Knowles could give different looks and mix up the defense more often. Ohio State is also now without starting tackle Josh Simmons for the remainder of the year. Zen Michalski will be filling in on Oct. 26 after proving himself capable against the Ducks. Fans should keep an eye on how he holds up if Nebraska attempts to exploit him.

Another interesting storyline to observe on Oct. 26 will be the crowd and Raiola. The star QB was once committed to Ohio State before flipping his decision to the Cornhuskers. The crowd in Columbus could look to make his day much more difficult when he takes the field. His poise will be something to watch.

Nebraska will most likely try to control the clock. It wants to avoid giving up 56 points again. Its best shot is to keep the explosive Ohio State offense off the field as much as possible. Head coach Matt Rhule has proven himself to be one of the best leaders in college football. He will surely have his team as prepared as possible.