1. Better run game is a distinct advantage when these two teams face off, and even with Haynes out, our run game is superior.
2. Every year in recent history favors the team that is more physical and it seems the Bucks under Day have turned into a bevy of well paid and talented, but comparatively soft, players.
3. A look at the weather forecast shows that we are heading for a cold, possibly wet/snowy day, one where the level of skill players is neutralized and toughness in the trenches is rewarded.
4. The development of BU is becoming more and more evident these last two weeks. Minus the picks (and yes, he can’t have multiple INTs), he is now a real threat with his legs and arm.
5. That last point is especially important. His judgement regarding when to throw and when to run has taken a giant leap and, in many key third down situations, it has led to first downs.
6. Home field advantage won’t necessarily determine the outcome, but it sure can be critical in tight games where any edge may be the difference in the final score.
7. Entering The Game, we are significantly better with the ball than we were last season when we still found a way to beat the Bucknuts in their own house even with an anemic offense.
8. Bredeson or no Bredeson, this Lindsey built offense with an improved O line, a maturing Underwood, an ascending Marsh and a dependable Marshall, will help out our defense. Bank on it.
9. Under no circumstances should we forget that Wink came up with his best defensive game plans in the two biggest games of the season (Ohio State and Alabama) last year. Expect it again.
10. Can our defense hold this daunted OSU offense to under 20 points? I think so, although I admit I would feel much better if Moore were back at safety.
11. Know this and know it well. OSU has not played anyone better than us yet. So it is still unclear just how good they are even if they are the deserved, designated No. 1 team in the country.
12. Nevermind that their most difficult contest was in The Shoe against Texas, a team that has proven to be far inferior than expected. We are more battle tested than they are.
13. Unless turnovers lead to short fields, OSU will not find it easy to score. Their run game has fallen off this year. Tate and Smith will play, but will be likely hampered somewhat due to injuries.
14. The fact that Sayin has not been under duress has contributed mightily to his strong stats. Pressure from our front four/disguised coverages might prove Sayin is mortal. Just sayin.
15. Sherrone is ready. He has been coaching under severe pressure since the USC game. Hasn’t looked comfortable. I think we will see a different Sherrone Moore on the sidelines on Saturday.
Go Blue, baby! Five in a row would be SWEET.
Disclaimer: I feel better and better about Saturday the more I think about it. The wild card for me is turnovers. The OSU defense is real. Patricia has them playing at the highest level. I think we can move the ball, but can we do it without turning the ball over? We survived a few giveaways last year, but we also got some key ones to go our way too that helped balance it out. If the same occurs on Saturday, then we should be okay. But if the turnover battle goes materially in their favor, we will not be able to overcome it. This is not Northwestern.
