31-24 2OT
Two-Minute Drill: Updates from the Ohio State - Penn State Postgame
October 26, 2014 Source: The Ozone - Urban Meyer spoke with the media following Ohio State's double-overtime win over Penn State, as did offensive coordinator Tom Herman and defensive coordinator Luke Fickell.
Urban Meyer Updates
+ Meyer started out by giving credit to Penn State and how well they played up front. He said the Buckeyes will have to play better up front in the future.
+ He said that J.T. Barrett sprained a knee and still pulled them through somehow. He sprained the knee at the end of the first half. "He's a tough guy, man."
+ Meyer said he was impressed with the team's resolve. They put in a lot of work throughout the week and to see your freshman quarterback do that, it's impressive.
+ He did say that he didn't like the way they went about their business on offense.
+ Meyer said Barrett's confidence was rattled in the second quarter.
+ He was asked about Joey Bosa and he gave a slight smile and then credited the interior of the offensive line keeping Christian Hackenberg from stepping up into the pocket and allowing Bosa to get him on the last play of the game.
+ Meyer said he didn't like the operation of the offense tonight. He thought the offense did well enough with the atmosphere.
Luke Fickell Updates
+ Fickell said that when momentum shifts, it's so hard to get it back. The offense and defense "bowed up" and it was great to see.
+ Asked about Bosa's sack at the end, he said he wishes he could've seen it, but he didn't. He said he likes their chances when Bosa is in a one-on-one.
+ He said it was great to see the team go through adversity and come out the other end victorious.
Tom Herman Updates
+ Herman said there was some conservative playcalling throughout because of how well the OSU defense was playing, but Barrett's knee injury affected the calls some as well.
+ He said he thought the receivers played fine, but that Barrett either missed them or didn't have enough time to hit them. It wasn't anything that the receivers weren't doing.
+ He said that Barrett told him "I'm good. I'm good. I'm good." when Herman asked him if he could still play on his injured knee.
+ Herman said he had no doubt that Barrett would lead them perfectly well in overtime.
 Urban Meyer Post-Game October 26, 2014 Source: ESPN | | Urban Meyer said the Buckeyes have a lot of things to fix after a 31-24 double-overtime win at Penn State. |
| J.T. Barrett Post-
GamePost-Game October 26, 2014 Source: ESPN | | Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett discusses his team's 31-24 win against Penn State after he rushed for two touchdowns in overtime. |
No. 13 Ohio State Survives Trip To Penn State 31-24 in 2OT
October 18, 2014 Source: OSU Official Site - J.T. Barrett scores twice in overtime to lift the Buckeyes
Joey Bosa's Ohio State's teammates had to tell the defensive tackle that he'd just finished off Penn State with a sack in the second overtime.
The sack on a fourth-and-5 play gave the No. 13 Buckeyes a 31-24 victory Saturday night.
Bosa was the last to know.
"I was so tired I didn't even know it was a sack," said Bosa, who had 2 1/2 sacks and finished with six tackles. "The guys started hugging me and I just went to the ground. This might have been a double-overtime win, but it doesn't make it any less important, winning in a crazy environment like this."
Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett had two touchdown runs in overtime after Penn State overcame a 17-0 deficit to tie it.
"There are no moral victories at Penn State," Nittany Lions coach James Franklin said. "There never will be."
The Buckeyes (6-1, 3-0 Big Ten) built a 17-0 lead and were cruising when Penn State defensive tackle Anthony Zettel intercepted Barrett's pass and returned it 40 yards for a touchdown in the third quarter.
Christian Hackenberg threw a 24-yard touchdown pass to Saeed Blacknall early in the fourth, and Penn State (4-3, 1-3) tied it on Sam Ficken's 31-yard field goal with 9 seconds left.
"It comes down to execution," Hackenberg said. "Consistently, we executed better in the second half. There's still a little bit of inconsistency there. I think we picked that up and that allowed us to get things going," he said.
Hackenberg finished 31-of-49 for 224 yards and a touchdown.
In the first overtime, Penn State tailback Bill Belton took a direct snap from the Wildcat formation and scored on a 1-yard run. The Buckeyes countered when Barrett carried two straight times, the first for 17 yards and the second 5 yards for a touchdown.
Penn State was called for a personal foul on the touchdown, giving Ohio State the ball at the 12 to start the second overtime. With a third-and-2 from the 4, Barrett powered through the middle of Penn State's defense for a touchdown.
"I just read the play each time (on the option)," said Barrett, who rushed for 75 yards on 20 carries and completed 12 of 19 mostly possession-type passes for 74 more yards. "They were giving us the inside. I was going to do whatever I had to do to get in the end zone."
Ezekiel Elliott ran for 109 yards on 26 carries for Ohio State. The Buckeyes have won five straight games and 19 in a row in the conference.
"It's not luck. It was a tough game," Buckeyes coach Urban Meyer said. "Penn State is a very rugged defensive unit. They play hard. "If we would have not turned the ball over and took care of business, then we'd see what would happen. But that's part of the game."
DaeSean Hamilton set a Penn State record with 14 catches for 126 yards.
Elliott opened the scoring in the first quarter with a 10-yard run, Sean Nuernberger made a 49-yard field in the second, and Barrett threw a 1-yard pass to Jeff Heuerman late in the quarter to make it 17-0.
Penn State was hampered by two calls by officials that went against the Nittany Lions.
In the first quarter, the officials ruled that Ohio State's Vonn Bell intercepted Hackenberg's pass at the Penn State 39. The play was reviewed and the call was upheld.
After the game, however, head referee John O'Neill said the play wasn't thoroughly reviewed.
"The play, technically, was not thoroughly reviewed due to some technical difficulties with the equipment," he said.
And, despite the fact that several replays on the Beaver Stadium video boards showed that the ball hit the ground, the referees were powerless to review them.
"The feeds that the replay team looks at are the feeds that you get at home. We can't deviate," O'Neill said. "We can't create our own rules. The replay rules are clear that we have to use the equipment provided."
Penn State middle linebacker Mike Hull, who recorded a game-high 19 tackles, echoed Franklin's sentiments.
"It definitely hurts a lot whenever you lose a close one like that, but I'm really proud of the way our team came together in the second half and fought and battled," Hull said.
"No moral victories but I think we're heading in the right direction. I think if we keep playing like this every week with that same type of effort and teamwork we're going to be tough to beat in the next coming weeks."
Ohio State vs Penn State (Oct 25, 2014) Source: OSU Official Site
Scoring Summary, Team Statistics, Individual Statistics, Drive Chart, Defensive Statistics, Game Participation,
Box Score, Play-by-Play, Play breakdown
Instant analysis: No. 12 Ohio State 31, Penn State 24 (2 OTs)
October 26, 2014 Source: ESPN - Instead, they walked off the field silently after falling 31-24 against No. 12 Ohio State in double overtime. The Buckeyes scored two touchdowns in the overtime periods and sacked Christian Hackenberg on the final play.
Penn State's Anthony Zettel returned an interception 40 yards for a touchdown, and the defense held J.T. Barrett to just 74 passing yards.
The Buckeyes showed they were the better team with a strong defense and ground game. Penn State didn't enter the red zone until the final quarter, and Ohio State limited PSU to 16 rushing yards on 31 carries.
With the win, Ohio State improves to 6-1, 3-0 in the Big Ten. Penn State drops to 4-3, 1-3 in the conference.
How the game was won: Ohio State’s defense dominated, as the Nittany Lions just couldn’t get anything started until the final quarter. Penn State finished with 240 total yards -- and didn’t reach the red zone until the final quarter. By then, it was too late. Two controversial calls in the first half also helped Ohio State, as a questionable interception call led to an Ohio State touchdown and a field goal counted despite the snap coming after the play clock had expired.
Gameball goes to: Ohio State's Joey Bosa. He finished with six tackles and 2.5 sacks -- but his final sack was most important of all. He tackled Hackenberg in the backfield to end the game. Ezekiel Elliott and Mike Hull also deserve mentions here, but Bosa's play had the biggest impact.
Playoff implications: The Buckeyes are still in this. For them to truly be considered, though, they’ll have to win out. Nothing is guaranteed, but the College Football Playoff committee might be willing to overlook the Week 2 loss to Virginia Tech – as long as the Buckeyes beat Michigan State in two weeks and then win the Big Ten title.
What’s next: Ohio State will take on Illinois at the Horseshoe next week. The Illini are coming off a surprise win against Minnesota.
It was over when... Ohio State DE Joey Bosa sacked Penn State QB Christian Hackenberg on fourth down in the second overtime.
Gameball goes to... Ezekiel Elliott. The Buckeyes tailback rushed for 109 yards and a touchdown and added a 7-yard reception.
Stat of the game... 74. OSU QB J.T. Barrett, who had thrown for 200 yards in every game this season, managed just 74 yards passing.
J.T. Barrett didn't complete a pass thrown 15 yards or longer downfield in Saturday's win again Penn State (0-for-4), the first game he hasn't completed one such pass this season. Entering Saturday, Barrett had thrown for at least one touchdown on such attempts in every victory this season.
• With the win, Ohio State ups its Big Ten regular season win streak to 19 games, one shy of the Big Ten record of 20 set by the 2005-07 Ohio State teams.
• Ohio State is 8-2 in overtime all-time, 3-2 on the road. It was the first OT game of series. Head coach Urban Meyer is 7-0 in his career in OT, 3-0 at OSU.
• The Buckeyes have won 11 consecutive road games, the longest active streak in the nation.
• Ohio State has won the last three meetings with Penn State and leads the all-time series, 16-13.
• The win improves Ohio State to 40-21 all-time in night games (games starting after 5 p.m. local time) and 19-9 all-time after an open week.
• Ohio State has scored on its opening drive in each of the last five games.
• Ohio State held Penn State scoreless in the first half for the first time since 2000 when OSU won 45-6 in Columbus.
• Ohio State has now outscored its last five opponents 158-38 in the first half.
• Meyer has won his last 11 games in the month of October, with his last defeat coming in 2010 at Florida.
• Meyer improves to 80-15 all-time when meeting an opposing coach for the first time and 39-3 in his career when having more than a week to prepare for an opponent, including 8-1 at Ohio State.
• The Buckeye defense held Penn State to 16 yards rushing, a season low.
• Linebacker Joshua Perry had a career-high 18 tackles for the game, the most by a Buckeye in a game this season. He has recorded at least six tackles in every game this season.
• Defensive end Joey Bosa tied career bests with 2.5 sacks and 2.5 TFL. He has at least 0.5 TFL in 13 consecutive games.
• Safety Vonn Bell recorded his second INT of the season and the third of his career in the first quarter.
• Safety Tyvis Powell collected his second INT of the season and the third of his career in the third quarter.
• Linebacker Darron Lee recorded a career-best 2.5 TFL.
• Running back Ezekiel Elliott finished the game with 109 yards rushing and one TD, his third 100-yard performance in the last four games. Elliott now has 499 yards rushing and three TDs in his last four games.
• Tight end Jeff Heuerman recorded his first TD catch of the season and the sixth of his career in the second quarter to put Ohio State up 17-0.
• Punter Cameron Johnston kicked six times for a 45.0 yard average, pinning the Nittany Lions inside their 20-yard line four times. He had a long punt of 59 yards.
Stars of the game: Quarterback J.T. Barrett shook a midgame slump to run for two touchdowns in overtime. He rushed for 32 yards in overtime. And defensive end Joey Bosa shoved a running back into Penn State quarterback Christian Hackenberg for a sack to close out the victory.
Turning point: Penn State faced fourth-and-5 in the second overtime, but Bosa bull-rushed running back Akeel Lynch, with Lynch falling into Hackenberg. It was redemption of sorts after Ohio State’s defense gave up a 19-play drive to allow a tying field goal in regulation.
Repercussion: The victory was the 19th straight in the Big Ten regular season, one short of the conference record set by the Buckeyes from 2005 to ’07. Its impact on the 12-member College Football Playoff committee, which will release its first rankings Tuesday, remains to be seen.
Just wondering: Where were the downfield passes by Ohio State? Yes, Penn State’s defense was stout, but the Buckeyes’ offense too often resembled the one-trick pony of recent seasons: When in doubt, run the quarterback.
Numbers for dummies
376: times the Nittany Lion roared over the stadium speakers, which is about 365 times more than any human should have to take.
4: Buckeyes who took the snap on one third-quarter drive: Barrett, Cardale Jones, Dontre Wilson and Jalin Marshall.
Jan 3, 2003: Last time Ohio State won by a score of 31-24 in two overtimes — the Bowl Championship Series title game vs. the University of Miami.
* Ohio State now leads the all-time series between these two tradition-rich powerhouses 17-13. Since Penn State entered the Big Ten in 1993, Ohio State owns an edge of 15-7 in the series.
* OSU leads 7-5 in games played in University Park. OSU has won its last four games at PSU, dating to a 2005 loss (17-10). OSU has also won five of the schools’ last six meetings overall.
* Ohio State has won 19 straight Big Ten regular season games. That streak dates to a loss to Michigan in the 2011 regular season finale. The Big Ten record for consecutive conference wins is 20, set by the 2005-07 Ohio State teams. OSU can tie that record next week against Illinois.
* This is OSU’s third night game out of five scheduled this season. It is also the first of three straight night games. OSU is 2-1 in night games this year with the loss to Virginia Tech, the win over Cincinnati and this game.
OSU is 40-21 all-time in night games. The Buckeyes are 3-1 in night games at Penn State. The loss was in 2005 (17-10), while the previous wins came in 2007 (37-17) and 2012 (35-23).
* Urban Meyer is 4-0 all-time against Penn State. In addition to his three wins at Ohio State, his 2010 Florida team defeated Penn State (and legendary head coach Joe Paterno) 37-24 in the Outback Bowl. That was Meyer’s last game as the Gators’ head coach.
* Ohio State returns home to host Illinois next Saturday (8 p.m., ABC/ESPN2). The Fighting Illini improved to 4-4 overall and 1-3 in Big Ten play with Saturday’s home upset win over Minnesota (28-24).
Sources: ESPN, OSU Official Site, Columbus Dispatch, Bucknuts
Joey Bosa tackles PSU QB Christian Hackenburg in the 2nd OT
Sack and celebration after double-overtime win
Carmen Ohio at Penn State - Eleven Warriors
Ohio State Stock Market Report: Penn State
October 26, 2014 Source: Land-Grant Holy Land -
Blue Chip Stocks:
Joey Bosa, DE: Bosa was one of the few things to feel good about after that ugly mess of a game. Bosa was disruptive in the backfield all night, including a massive sack that initially took Penn State out of field goal range with under a minute to play in the 4th quarter. Bosa is a superfreak, and we have at least one more season of him. So we have that going for us, which is nice. How about that game-ending sack, by the way?
Ezekiel Elliott, RB: Against the best rush defense in the country, Elliott was able to muster over 100 yards on the ground. There were few flashy moments, and the Buckeye rushing attack looked decidedly more "meh" than usual, but Elliott came to play and was able to move the chains when the line gave him a chance to do so.
Darron Lee, LB: Lee had a great first half. Flew all over the field, made plays to keep Christian Hackenberg nervous, recorded a sack. Not a lot to say about Lee that I haven't fanboyed about already, but he keeps meeting expectations week after week, and that's pretty great.
Solid Investments:
J.T. Barrett, QB: With the world-destroying numbers that Barrett's been putting up, he was bound to have an off night. His uninspiring numbers were trumped by the ice water in his veins. Despite a rough second half and a minor leg injury, Barrett was as cool as the other side of the pillow in overtime, leading to two Buckeye scores and the eventual victory.
Junk Bonds:
The offensive line: Was really hoping we wouldn't see this unit in this category again this season, you guys. Penn State (and their crowd, if you buy into that sort of thing) were all over the Buckeye linemen on Saturday. J.T. Barrett struggled to stay upright all evening, and it wasn't hard to see why. I realize that the O-line is a thankless job, where you're never praised when the game goes right and principally blamed when the team struggles, but man. This was not a great game for that unit, which we haven't been able to say since the Virginia Tech game. The O-line came back to play in overtime, thankfully, but you hate to see it get that far.
Buy/Sell:
SELL: Ohio State's 3rd down efforts. The Buckeyes just could not get it done on 3rd downs on Saturday, going a pedestrian _-_ and giving Cam Johnston his biggest workload of the year. Penn State has an exceptional defense, but that's just inexcusable for a unit that is built around its ability to keep teams on their heels. The offensive line had their worst night since the Virginia Tech debacle. The Buckeyes allowed the Nittany Lions to pressure J.T. Barrett all evening to a degree which we haven't seen since early September.
SELL: Pac-12 refs sneaking into the B1G. There were some decidedly questionable calls in both directions on Saturday. The Buckeyes benefited first, getting credit for an interception on a play where the ball pretty clearly hit the ground. The bad calls were back and forth after that. The refs were most noticeable (never a compliment) during the last Penn State drive in regulation, during which both teams were charged timeouts that they didn't call. Curtis Grant also received a debatable roughing-the-passer penalty that moved the Nittany Lions into field goal range with under a minute to play in the 4th quarter.
BUY: I don't know, man. You're all adults, you can buy whatever you want with your money. Not an adult? I'm not your dad. You can still buy whatever you'd like. Go nuts.
HC James Franklin Postgame
PSU-OSU Postgame Quotes
PSU Offensive Players
#14 Christian Hackenberg
So./So., QB
Q: What do you think happened tonight?
A: The key thing is possession. There [are] ups and downs in every game, but that is what it is really about. We were able to pick it up at points and that is what helped us get things going. We are all emotional after a type of game like that. We really laid it all out today. Our defense played an amazing game. It’s Ohio State, Penn State, it’s going to sting.
Q:That first interception what are your thoughts on that?
A: It is out of our control. It happened but I did what I was coached to do. We did what we could to get it out there, but that is part of the game.
Q: What was it like playing out there tonight?
A: It is always a great atmosphere here, especially during a whiteout. We played with a chip on our shoulder, which is something I thing we have always done. Ohio State is a great team; I give them a lot of credit. They did what they needed to do, but we definitely gave ourselves a shot. We just couldn’t get it done... 
PSU Defensive Players
#43 Mike Hull
Gs./Sr. LB
Q: How did you feel about the comeback and the overtimes?
A: It definitely hurts a lot. I am really proud of the team; we really came together in the second half.
Q: Coach Franklin said there are no moral victories, but what do you guys take out of this?
A: There are no moral victories, but I think that we are heading into the right direction. I think that if we keep playing like this every week, with that same type of effort, we will be hard to beat.
Q: What kind of impact do you think that crowd has on games like this?
A: When we started recovering on big plays, the crowd started to shift and helped us get back into it. Anytime you have a crowd on your side like that it propels you to make big plays.
Q: How did the defense play into the offense turning things around?
A: I think that the defense kept it close and we were able to get a few take aways. The offense was able to say, “wow, we are still in this.” They were able to make some plays...
They said it: PSU talks officiating, double overtime loss to OSU
October 26, 2014 Source: Philly.com - There were several officiating calls that went the Buckeyes' way, including a pass attempt that was initially ruled an Ohio State interception by Vonn Bell and not overturned -- despite seeming to hit the ground in replays.
A post-game interview with head referee John O'Neill revealed that the interception was not officially reviewed "due to some technical difficulties with the equipment," O'Neill said.
The Buckeyes went on to score their first touchdown off of Bell's interception.
Later in the second quarter, an Ohio State field goal was hammered home from 49 yards -- however, not until after the play clock ran out, replays showed.
Asked if he received explanations regarding these two calls, Franklin didn't answer directly. But he made his feelings clear.
"All that equals 10 points, right?" Franklin said, pausing extensively.
Penn State coach James Franklin, along with players, spoke emotionally following the loss. But the coach made sure not to overstep his boundaries when discussing the officiating.
Here's what they had to say...
Coach James Franklin
On whether he received explanation on the two calls:
"I would love to come in here on a weekly basis and tell you exactly what I think. And it goes against everything I am. I tell people the truth, but I'm not able to do that. I'm not able to do that. I'm going to focus on the things that we can correct as a program and our kids. And I'm going to fight for our kids. I'm going to fight for our program."
On whether he plans to have the calls reviewed through the Big Ten conference:
"I know you guys would for me to give you a sound bite that not only would sell papers for you guys, but also would give me a big fine. I'm not going to do it. I'm going to focus on the things that I can control, which is our players and our coaches and our program."
On the takeaways of the win:
"There are no moral victories but I love these kids and [we talked about ] sticking together. And I told them that. And I was emotional when I told them that."
Quarterback Christian Hackenberg
In what ways the team took a step forward:
"It's a loss, so it's tough. But we gave ourselves an identity in some way, shape or form with what we can do moving forward."
Defensive tackle Anthony Zettel
How the team can see the game as a positive:
"The guys on our team showed the will to never give up. We've been through a lot of crap at Penn State, just with the sanctions and everything. And I feel like the guys on this team I trust with my life. And they trust me." ...
Ohio State vs Penn State Trailer
WHAT’S AT STAKE
The Buckeyes have won four in a row by an average score of 56-17. They can’t afford a slip with two weeks left to their big showdown against No. 8 Michigan State. The Nittany Lions, after a 4-0 start, have dropped two in a row. They are bowl eligible for the first time since 2011 after NCAA sanctions were lifted.
KEY MATCHUP
Penn State QB Christian Hackenberg against Ohio State’s secondary. The Buckeyes have been burned by a lot of quick-strike, long TD passes this season and toward the end of last year. But they seem to have eliminated some mistakes in allowing just one score through the air (and from only 4 yards out) in the last two games. For the Nittany Lions to win, Hackenberg must have time to throw.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Ohio State: QB J.T. Barrett has thrown 17 TD passes with one pick over the last four games. DE Joey Bosa has 9 tackles for a loss, including 5.5 sacks with three forced fumbles.
Penn State: TB Bill Belton leads the Nittany Lions in rushing but with a meager 43 yards per game. Frosh WR DaeSean Hamilton is averaging seven catches for over 90 yards. LB Mike Hull has 64 tackles for the top-ranked run defense in the country.
FACTS & FIGURES
Larry Johnson, a Penn State assistant for 18 years, makes his first trip back to Happy Valley since becoming Ohio State’s D-line coach in the offseason. ... It’s a white-out night at Beaver Stadium, meaning a lot of fans may have to buy white coats — temperatures will be in the mid 40s. ... The Buckeyes rolled over the Nittany Lions a year ago in Columbus, 63-14, while averaging 8 yards per rush (51 for 408). ... Penn State is coming off a bye. ... Ohio State plays the next seven Saturdays, with the next three games set to start at 8 p.m. ... The Buckeyes have won 18 consecutive Big Ten games, two behind the conference record set by the Buckeyes 2005-07.
OSU-Penn State Game Thread; Ten Pressing Questions
October 25, 2014 Source: Bucknuts - * 1. Can J.T. Barrett continue his fine play against Penn State’s stellar defense? – During OSU’s four-game winning streak, Barrett threw for 17 touchdowns against one interception. Penn State’s defense is ranked sixth nationally, though. The Nittany Lions are only allowing 283.3 yards per game. Barrett leads the Big Ten in total offense at 333.0 yards per game. Something has to give.
* 2. Can Ohio State establish the run against Penn State? – Penn State boasts the nation’s No. 1 rushing defense, giving up just 60.8 yards per game. The Buckeyes are 16th nationally in rushing offense at 259.8 ypg. RB Ezekiel Elliott has been coming into his own of late. But PSU boasts a rugged front seven, led by MLB Mike Hull.
* 3. Which OSU receiver will come through vs. PSU? – OSU’s wide receiver corps has come a long way. Jalin Marshall was a big beneficiary last week against Rutgers. Could it be Michael Thomas, Devin Smith or somebody else this time around?
* 4. How will the OSU offensive line perform against PSU’s defensive line? – The OSU offensive line had a rough time vs. Virginia Tech back in Week 2. Things have gone much better against lesser opponents in recent weeks. But PSU’s front boasts two stellar ends in Deion Barnes and C.J. Olaniyan and two standout tackles in Anthony Zettel and Austin Johnson. In a loud environment, the line needs to be on point.
* 5. Can the Buckeyes get pressure on Penn State quarterback Christian Hackenberg? – Hackenberg has an NFL frame and an NFL arm. He does not have NFL teammates, however. His offensive line has been spotty at best. PSU starts two redshirt freshmen and a sophomore on the offensive line. Maybe OSU DE Joey Bosa and his cohorts can wreak some havoc in the PSU backfield. OSU always seems to have a pick-six when it plays Penn State. Will that happen again?
* 6. Can the Buckeyes keep Penn State RBs Bill Belton and Zach Zwinak in front of them? – Penn State is a distant 118th nationally in rushing (93.2 ypg). OSU’s rush defense numbers are skewed by Navy’s ground-oriented attack in the opener. But OSU’s linebackers will still need to play well and not let PSU get its ground game going.
* 7. What wrinkles will Penn State bring out after an open week? – On both sides of the ball, look for Penn State to break in some new schemes. The Lions need a complete offensive overhaul after averaging just 11.3 points in their first three Big Ten games.
* 8. What impact will special teams have? – OSU’s Marshall could be close to a breakthrough. Could a blocked punt have an impact on this game.
* 9. How will the Buckeyes handle the White-Out at Beaver Stadium? – This is OSU’s third road trip following the Navy and Maryland games. But neither of those games will prepare Barrett and the young Buckeyes for what they will encounter at the Beav. The Buckeyes lost there in 2005 with Troy Smith as a junior. OSU is heavily favored this time around, but this could be an equalizer.
* 10. Will the Buckeyes take another step toward the Nov. 8 showdown with Michigan State? – Next week’s home night game against struggling Illinois seems like fait accompli. That makes this game the last real test before OSU visits Michigan State. Penn State is coming off losses to a pair of 3-4 teams in Northwestern and Michigan, but you know the Lions will give the Buckeyes their best shot.
Penn State game destined to be decided in trenches
October 23, 2014 Source: Columbus Dispatch - Most football games are won by the most basic factor: which team dominates the line of scrimmage. “Regardless of who you’re playing, that’s where everything starts,” Ohio State coach Urban Meyer said...
Research Notes Source: ESPN
Since its loss to Virginia Tech, Ohio State has scored at least 50 points in a school-record four straight games. The Buckeyes have a four-game streak of gaining at least 500 yards of total offense for the first time since 1998 and have been the most efficient offensive in the country during that time.
Ohio State gains at least 5 yards on 52% of its rushes, 3 percentage points higher than any other FBS team. Penn State allows opponents to gain 5 yards on an FBS-low 22% of their rushes.
J.T. Barrett struggled against Virginia Tech's blitz in Ohio State's Week 2 loss, getting sacked seven times. But he has been much better against pressure since then, throwing seven touchdown passes with only one sack when opponents have blitzed.
With Ohio State on ABC on Saturday night at Penn State... J.T. Barrett has been a completely different player since the Buckeyes lost to Virginia Tech on September 6 (Week 2)... Barrett leads the FBS in Total QBR since that loss and has been responsible for 20 touchdowns while committing just a single turnover (4 TD, 4 TO in 1st 2 games).
Penn State will host 13 Ohio State this week in its 7th full stadium White Out in school history. As these results show, despite the incredible scene, the Nittany Lions haven't been very intimidating in front of a Beaver Stadium full of white-clad fans. Penn State only boasts a 3-3 record while actually being outscored (albeit slightly). Turnovers have also proved costly as Penn State is -7 in turnover margin in those games.
  Five key factors for OSU victory
October 24, 2014 Source: Columbus Dispatch -
1. Take the crowd out of it
Penn State is expecting a “white-out” crowd of 107,000 at one of the best venues in college football. If the Nittany Lions are to make a game of it, their fans will have to play a role. A quick start by the Buckeyes, a priority the past couple of games, would deflate the crowd. Two years ago, the crowd was a factor until Ohio State took control early in the second half. The stadium was largely empty by the end.
2. Hassle Hackenberg
If Penn State quarterback Christian Hackenberg is given time to throw, he can pick apart defenses. The problem for the Nittany Lions is that their offensive line has been brutal, and Hackenberg has been a pinata. With defensive linemen Joey Bosa and Michael Bennett, and linebackers Darron Lee and Joshua Perry improving as blitzers, the Buckeyes should be able to harass Hackenberg into submission. It also helps that Penn State doesn’t have a stud receiver like Allen Robinson around anymore, although DaeSean Hamilton has helped fill the void.
3. Sustain balanced offense
The Buckeyes have balanced the run and pass better this year than at any time in Urban Meyer’s previous two seasons. That will be important tonight. Penn State has the top-ranked rush defense in the country, but Ohio State is by far the most-potent opponent that the Nittany Lions have faced. If the Buckeyes can keep them off-balance, they should be able to do what they’ve done since the Virginia Tech game — move the ball efficiently and seemingly at will.
4. Contain Penn State TEs
The Nittany Lions have three quality tight ends — Jesse James, Kyle Carter and freshman Mike Gesicki (whom Ohio State coveted) — that are crucial in their passing game. The OSU linebackers can’t allow the tight ends to roam freely.
5. Convert in red zone
That was a point of emphasis after the Buckeyes stalled a few times inside the 20 against Maryland, and Ohio State did cash in against Rutgers. But one game does not make a problem solved, especially against a Penn State defense that ranks third nationally in red-zone defense.
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When Buckeyes run . . . Edge – OHIO STATE
Penn State has the top-ranked run defense in the country, giving up only 60.8 yards per game, but the Nittany Lions haven’t played a team that can run the ball as effectively as Ohio State. Mike Hull (64 tackles) is a sound middle linebacker, and the interior linemen have been solid. But Ohio State should be able to run outside the tackles with Ezekiel Elliott and carries by Jalin Marshall and Dontre Wilson.
When Buckeyes pass . . . Edge – OHIO STATE
The passing game continues to thrive with a balanced attack and quarterback J.T. Barrett, who looks more comfortable every week. Since the Virginia Tech loss, Barrett has thrown for 17 touchdowns with only one interception. Penn State’s pass defense has been pretty good. It ranks 54th in passing yards allowed (222.5) but 22nd in pass-defense efficiency. Safety Adrian Amos is a three-year starter and the leader of the secondary.
When Nittany Lions run . . . Edge – OHIO STATE
Penn State’s offensive line has been inconsistent at times, and overmatched at others. The Nittany Lions are last in the Big Ten in rushing yards (93.2 average). They have no rusher in the top 10 in the league; Bill Belton is their leading rusher (43.0 yards per game). The team averages 2.8 yards per rush. Ohio State is sixth in the league in rushing defense (137.8), but it has been steadily working its way up..
When Nittany Lions pass . . . Edge – OHIO STATE
QB Christian Hackenberg leads the Big Ten in passing yards (272.8 per game), but with just five TD passes and seven interceptions, the passing attack has taken on more of an air of desperation. WR DaeSean Hamilton leads the Big Ten in receptions (7.2 per game), but there is a big dropoff after him. Ohio State DE Joey Bosa is second in the league in sacks (5.5) and is the fulcrum of a pass defense that has allowed the second-fewest yards in the conference (181.7 average), is tied for second in interceptions (10) and has given up just seven TD passes.
Special teams . . . Edge – OHIO STATE
Marshall did well in his first game as the primary punt returner against Rutgers. The OSU coverage units have been generally solid and sometimes outstanding. Penn State kicker Sam Ficken has gone from major weakness early in his career to a strength. He has made 12 of 14 field-goal attempts this year. Source: Columbus Dispatch
3 highlights from Urban Meyer's radio show: How can Ohio State be more like Mississippi State?
October 23, 2014 Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer - 1. Meyer said he spoke with Mississippi State coach Dan Mullen before the Rutgers game about what the Bulldogs are doing well, and what's led them to be ranked No. 1 in the country.
Mullen coached with Meyer at Notre Dame, Bowling Green, Utah and Florida.
Mullen's answer: They've been rolling a lot of guys on defense.
That's what Meyer wants with the Buckeyes. Ohio State hasn't been able to get the rotation Meyer would like to to have on the defensive line.
"They're all eating free lunch, and getting nice gear. Go play," Meyer said. "I get angry sometimes."
Meyer said guys like Joey Bosa can't play 75 snaps per game.
"There's some big guys on that defensive line who should be playing," Meyer said...
| Urban Meyer Post-Practice Q&A Video October 22, 2014 Source: The Ozone | | Head Coach Urban Meyer speaks with reporters about the upcoming game at Penn State. He also answers a questions about possible black uniforms. |
5 reasons Ohio State football will beat the Penn State Nittany Lions
October 24, 2014 Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer -
5 reasons Penn State football will beat the Ohio State Buckeyes
October 24, 2014 Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer -
Hackenberg holds key to Ohio State-Penn State game
October 22, 2014 Source: Associated Press - A year after the worst beating in Penn State's highlight-filled history, the Nittany Lions know they need to protect quarterback Christian Hackenberg if they want to avoid another lopsided loss to Ohio State.
"Overall they are a very fast, athletic defense," Hackenberg said Wednesday. "We just have to continue to execute and stay on track and limit the negative plays and try to continue to keep the sticks moving throughout the game."
They certainly did not do any of that a year ago.
The Buckeyes sacked him four times and intercepting him twice in a stunningly one-sided 63-14 victory over the then-freshman. It was a seismic defeat for Penn State — the most points surrendered and the biggest loss in the program's 114 years.
Having followed that script once, they hope to harass Hackenberg again under the lights at Beaver Stadium...
Two-Minute Drill: Updates from the Big Ten Teleconference Oct. 21
October 20, 2014 Source: The Ozone - Urban Meyer Updates
+ Meyer said losing Mike Vrabel is a star in the profession of college coaching, but Ohio State picking up Johnson in his place was "perfect timing."
+ Meyer said he talked to Johnson about Penn State's defensive lineman Anthony Zettel in order to get more information on him. Said he is a very good and talented player.
+ Meyer said Jalin Marshall was a bit lazy last year not only with football and in the classroom, so they sat down and talked about what he wanted to get out of his time at Ohio State. Now, Marshall is one of Ohio State's best practice players.
+ Meyer said J.T. Barrett's "saved our bacon" sometimes with how he can scramble efficiently and make plays. But he's never really thought of him like a Braxton Miller in terms of running the ball until he was asked about it.
+ Meyer said playing quarterback is a lot more than just about speed at the position, citing the ability to read defenses and lead a team.
+ Meyer said he would rather move his team to a desert island so it can just focus on class and football because of how much people are talking about the College Football Playoff.
+ Meyer said Joey Bosa played his best game last Saturday against Rutgers not because of the huge numbers he put up, but because he made minimal mistakes. He said the defensive line is "the essence of a good defense."
+ Backups on the defensive line have to start contributing more, Meyer said. He said he sees some progress, but not enough because they're not playing enough right now.
James Franklin updates
Urban Meyer says Penn State will be better gauge for Buckeyes' O-line
October 21, 2014 Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer... |
Urban Meyer Monday Luncheon Q&A 10-20-14 Source: The Ozone
Urban Meyer Penn State week press conference
October 20, 2014 Source: Land-Grant Holy Land - Big Ten OPOTW J.T. Barrett not a champion
Fresh off of an emphatic victory over Rutgers in the two teams' first ever meeting on the football field, Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer spoke to the gathered media at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center at The Ohio State University.
Meyer addressed this past weekend's game, the forthcoming contest at Penn State amongst numerous other topics of interest. Here were some of the highlights from this weekly press conference:
-- Meyer led off by mentioning that Ohio State leads the nation in attendance.
-- Meyer said Evan Spencer is one of the champions; "hard to say he's not one of our MVPs the way he's playing right now." "He stars on kickoff right now. He was one of our main guys on punt ... I just trust him with everything. It's the point where we're trying to find ways to reward him."
-- Jalin Marshall, Jeff Heuerman, Taylor Decker, Pat Elflein, and Jacoby Boren were also champions. Ezekiel Elliott was the offensive player of the week even though J.T. was the conference player of the week. "[J.T.] could've played a lot better."
-- "Offensively we could've played a lot better. That was not one of our great days".
-- Mike Bennett, Joey Bosa, Tyvis Powell, and Josh Perry were champions on defense. Doran Grant had his best game as a Buckeye.
-- Meyer mentions Dante Booker Jr was also injured in addition to Devan Bogard. They're going to speak today about how to fill in those units.
-- "I love coaching this team," when asked how happy he is with where the team is right now. Meyer loves that Nick Vannett and J.T. Barrett weren't named champions this week.
-- Meyer mentions that Penn State has the No. 1 rush defense. "Very, very well coached up front. Good personnel."
-- "On offense, obviously we've got a lot of respect for Hackenberg." Says that Hack is playing very well despite the stats. "They've got a boat load of tight ends and they try to play them all."
-- "When you see graded down, you don't grade him down. You coach him to throw the ball better." Mentions his criticism of Barrett are related to illegal procedure penalties and a few missed opportunities (including a potential touchdown).
-- "Obviously 110 is different than 50 something," Meyer said of comparing Penn State's atmosphere to Maryland's, their other road test this season so far.
-- Meyer says Jacoby Boren rolled his ankle against Rutgers but should be fine against Penn State.
-- "On the surface, I think [Vrabel and Larry Johnson] are very similar guys."
-- Meyer said OSU played 10 defensive linemen against Rutgers but "that didn't work well"
-- "There are very minimal differences between our two tight ends"
-- "Michael Hill did show something. Larry Johnson feels better about him right now"
-- "Rutgers was a step up [in terms of degree of difficulty of the opposition]. We did not, the last two weeks, we have not played as good up front offensively as we expect. That will really surface this week. We have to play better on the offensive line than we did Saturday."
-- In terms of in-game adjustments, Meyer said "You're getting paid a lot of money. You're at Ohio State." Clarified those kind of things are expectations
-- Meyer said the play sheet is 70% greater now than it was against Navy due to the offense as a whole gaining reps and experience.
-- Meyer stated that Dontre Wilson is "fine", despite being sidelined against Rutgers. "He's cleared."
-- Meyer said that because of Penn State's off week before this game, he expects a few new wrinkles.
-- Meyer said Penn State's defense is different than the one Ohio State put up 63 on last year.
-- The team's not worried about looking forward to Michigan State. He might be if they were playing a bad team, but there's no concern with the challenge Penn State presents.
No. 12/13 Ohio State at Penn State Game Notes
October 20, 2014 Source: OSU Official Site - Game to be televised on ABC at 8 p.m. ET ...
First and 10
• Ohio State enters the game having won 18 consecutive Big Ten regular season games. The B1G record is 20, set by the 2005-07 Ohio State teams.
• Ohio State has scored at least 50 points in four consecutive games -- a program record.
• Ohio State enters the game with at least 500 yards of total offense in each of the last four games -- tying a program record.
• Ohio State is fourth in the NCAA in scoring at 46.5 ppg, outscoring its past four opponents 224-69.
• Ohio State has scored a touchdown on its opening drive each of the last four games.
• QB J.T. Barrett has thrown 17 TD passes -- with only one INT -- in the past four games.
• Barrett leads the B1G and ranks 10th in NCAA in total offense (333.0). He also ranks first in the B1G and third in the NCAA in pass efficiency (182.1).
• Barrett has been responsible for at least four TDs in each of the last four games, the longest active streak in the country, according to ESPN stats.
• Sophomore DE Joey Bosa leads the B1G with 9.0 TFL and is second with 5.5 sacks. He also is tied for the Big Ten lead with three forced fumbles -- all three of which have led to scores.
• Head coach Urban Meyer has not lost a game in the month of October since the 2010 season.
Scouting Penn State
Penn State enters Saturday's game 4-2 overall and 1-2 in the Big Ten East division. They started the season 4-0 with wins over UCF (26-24 in Dublin, Ireland), Akron (21-3), at Rutgers (13-10) and UMass (48-7). They have since dropped two in a row to Northwestern (29-6) and at Michigan (18-13).
The Nittany Lions are led offensively by sophomore QB Christian Hackenberg, the 2013 B1G Freshman of the Year. Hackenberg leads the Big Ten in passing yards (272.8 ypg) and is third in total offense. His favorite target is freshman DaeSean Hamilton, who leads the Big Ten with 7.2 receptions per game and ranks second with 93.3 yards per game.
Defensively, Penn State boasts one of the top units in the Big Ten and nationally. They allow the fewest points in the Big Ten at 15.2 ppg and feature the best rush defense in the conference, holding the opposition to 60.8 yards per game on the ground. Overall, Penn State leads the conference in total defense, giving up just 283.3 yards per game.
James Franklin is in his first season in State College. Prior to his arrival, Franklin was the head coach at Vanderbilt where he amassed a 24-15 record in three seasons. He finished 9-4 in each of his final two seasons with bowl victories both years.
Ohio State vs. Penn State
Ohio State recognizes a two-game edge in wins over Penn State, 15 to 13, in a series that dates to 1912 and has had 21 Big Ten Conference showdowns. Penn State won the first four games in this series - in 1912-56-63-64 - but since then there has been only one winning streak as long as three games (Ohio State's consecutive wins in 2002-03-04).
Last 5 in State College:
Oct. 27, 2012 - Ohio State 35, Penn State 23
Nov. 7, 2009 - Ohio State 24, Penn State 7
Oct. 27, 2007 - Ohio State 37, Penn State 17
Oct. 8, 2005 - Penn State 17, Ohio State 10
Nov. 1, 2003 - Ohio State 21, Penn State 10
More at Ohio State vs. Penn State Game Notes
| DL Coach Larry Johnson: 'I Left On My Terms'; More Action For Holmes? Source: Bucknuts ... |
| WR Coach Zach Smith On Thomas: 'Redshirt Best Thing That Ever Happened To Him.' Source: Bucknuts ... |
* C Jacoby Boren – It appeared he went down with an ankle injury, something he had been fighting in recent weeks. Meyer: “Jacoby has been cleared.”
* LB Devan Bogard – Bogard appeared to injure his knee with an awkward step while covering a kickoff. He missed time the last two years with knee issues. Meyer: “Devan Bogard has not been cleared and it could face potential surgery again, so your heart just bleeds for him.” (Update: Torn ACL, done for the season.)
* DE Rashad Frazier – Frazier left the game with an ankle injury. Meyer: “Rashad has an ankle sprain. I guess probable or questionable for him.”
* DB Cam Burrows – Meyer: “Burrows is questionable as well. He had a stinger, a shoulder (injury).”
Earlier in the week, Meyer said that WR Dontre Wilson – who left with what appeared to be a head injury – was cleared and should be fine. Source: Bucknuts
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Game Data: Ohio State at Penn State
October 22, 2014 Source: Bucknuts.com - Breaking It Down * When Ohio State Has The Ball... * When Penn State Has The Ball...
 University Park Weather Forecast
Ohio State Game Day: A preview of Saturday's game against Penn State
October 25, 2014 Source: Canton Repository
Ohio State vs. Penn State 2014: Preview, odds, predictions
October 24, 2014 Source: Land -Grant Holy Land
Preview: No. 13 Ohio State vs. Penn State
October 24, 2014 Source: Eleven Warriors
Ohio State vs. Penn State: Game Preview
October 21, 2014 Source: Canton Repository
HC James Franklin updates the media following Wed practice of Ohio State week.
QB battle set up for weekend
October 23, 2014 Source: Altoona Mirror -
While there might not be much comparison between Christian Hackenberg and Ohio State's J.T. Barrett in terms of NFL potential, there's also no comparison when it comes to the two quarterbacks' overall numbers this season.
Hackenberg entered the year with a ton of notoriety, while Barrett was the backup who would be trying to fill the giant shoes of injured Buckeye star Braxton Miller.
Barrett hasn't just filled in admirably, he's been fantastic. The redshirt freshman is completing 65.2 percent of his passes for 269 yards per game and has 20 TD passes to only five interceptions.
Ohio State's best quarterbacks in recent history Troy Smith, Terrelle Pryor, Miller also could do major damage on the ground, and Barrett is no different from a dual-quarterback standpoint. He's second on the team in rushing with 383 yards (64 per game)...
Two-Minute Drill: Updates from the Big Ten Teleconference Oct. 21
October 20, 2014 Source: The Ozone - James Franklin Updates
+ Franklin said Penn State is really excited to get back on the field after having bye weeks in two of their last three weekends.
+ He said the game against Ohio State is sold out at 107,000 strong and is a white out.
+ Franklin said Penn State's offensive line against Ohio State's defensive line will play a big factor in the game, but it always is for them. "It's a tremendous challenge, they're playing at high level."
+ Franklin said he's been impressed with Ohio State's ability to recruit the defensive line and develop those players.
+ Franklin said Ohio State's offense has been doing a good job breaking tackles and getting yards after catch. "They're playing fast, that's one of the things that jumps out at you. Probably one of the fastest, most athletic team we've played against."
+ Asked about if Ohio State is a measuring stick for his program, Franklin said he and the rest of his staff just look to their own program and try to improve day by day.
+ Franklin said the scholarship reductions from the NCAA sanctions have hurt his offensive line, citing how Penn State only has one scholarship offensive tackle. "It is what it is ... but like most things in life there's not just one thing I can point my finger on and say this is the reason why."
+ Franklin said if the left tackle has to come out of the game, three players then have to change positions on the offensive line in order to keep playing. Lack of depth has hurt Penn State everywhere.
+ Franklin said the sanctions weren't really hurting guys that were considering Penn State as recruits because once they get to campus it would be just one or two years that they would be under them.
+ On Larry Johnson, who is now coaching Ohio State after 18 years at Penn State, Franklin said he knew Johnson felt like it was time to move on and he's happy that things are going well for him at Ohio State. "I respected Larry professionally and personally, and that's not going to change ... I think there are pluses and minuses is to everything."
Penn State Ohio State Game Notes
Penn State continues to lead the Big Ten Conference in rushing, scoring and total defense.
The Nittany Lions are No. 1 nationally in rushing defense, allowing just 60.8 yards per game on ground.
Penn State is permitting just 15.2 points per contest, which ranks No. 6 nationally and the Nittany Lions’ 283.3 ypg also is good for No. 6 nationally.
Meyer prepares Ohio State for loud Penn State crowd
October 21, 2014 Source: Philly.com -
Urban Meyer, who has coached in some big-time stadiums during his career, recalled his first Beaver Stadium experience with Ohio State in 2012 when he told his wife, "That's one of the top five atmospheres we've ever played in."
The ingredients will be there once again - a sellout crowd of close to 108,000, a "whiteout," lots of noise under the lights - on Saturday night when the 13th-ranked Buckeyes return to Happy Valley to take on a Nittany Lions team looking for its first win since Sept. 20.
With Lions-killer Braxton Miller, who had accounted for eight touchdowns in the last two years against Penn State, sidelined for the season after shoulder surgery, the Buckeyes come in with redshirt freshman quarterback J.T. Barrett, one of the Big Ten's true surprises this season.
Asked at his news conference Monday whether he was comfortable with Barrett's taking snaps in a hostile environment, Meyer replied, "More comfortable now than several weeks ago."
We did go on the road once, but obviously 110 [thousand] is different than 50-some" thousand at Maryland, he said. "We can expect the same type of reception. We'll be ready. Still glad we have Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday to get ready for it."
Penn State (4-2, 1-2 Big Ten) was off Saturday for the second time in three weeks. Ohio State (5-1, 2-0) played Rutgers after the Scarlet Knights' bye week and steamrollered to a 56-17 win.
"Prepare for something unusual," Meyer said. "I don't think they're holding anything [back] because they've had a couple of big games. . . . Rutgers had a couple of things they never showed. That bye week gives you a chance to work on some things."
The Buckeyes have outscored the Nittany Lions by 98-37 in Meyer's first two seasons in Columbus...
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