A crazy first game of the year as #2 Ohio state takes on #5 Nore Dame. Most people would assume that it should be a close game, but Ohio State enters as a 17-point favorite. The Buckeyes are looking to come in and prove that they are legit championship contenders this season. Below we will give an Ohio State vs Notre Dame preview.
Ohio State Offense vs Notre Dame Defense:
This should be an awesome battle in the trenches. Ohio State is ranked as PFF’s #1 offensive line in the country going into the season. Notre Dame’s defensive line is ranked as PFF’s #10 defensive line in the country. The key for the offense is to win the battle up front and establish the run. If they can do that, it will open up the passing game for CJ Stroud. Notre Dame has a solid secondary, but Ohio State probably has the best receiving core in college football. The wide receivers should be able to get open and put up some numbers. I expect the offense to win the battle up front and put-up 35+ points on Saturday.
Key players: LT Paris Johnson Jr (OSU), RB Treveyon Henderson (OSU), S Brandon Joseph (ND), DE Isiah Foskey (ND)
Ohio State Defense vs Notre Dame Offense:
Tyler Buchner won the Notre Dame starting Quarterback job this offseason. Buchner is a threat to run the ball as he went for 336 rushing yards on 46 carries in limited action last season. The Buckeyes have sometimes struggled with rushing QB’s in the past. The front seven has to do their best to contain him and keep him in the pocket. The key matchup will be Notre Dame’s talented tight end Michael Mayer against the linebackers/safeties. Mayer is Notre Dame’s leading receiver that is returning from last season. If the Buckeyes can slow down Buchner on the ground and Mayer in the air, they should have success.
Key players: LB Steele Chambers (OSU), S Ronnie Hickman (OSU), QB Tyler Buchner (ND), TE Michael Mayer (ND)
Prediction: Ohio State 38 Notre Dame 17
How to watch:
Date: Saturday, September 3rd
Game time: 7:30 PM ET
TV channel: ABC
Venue: Ohio Stadium, Columbus, Ohio