OSU Last Week

There was much anticipation for OSU to start the season and put the off-season in the past. Shortly before the game three more players were suspended, but it did not appear to be a problem as Ohio State soundly beat Akron 42-0. According to some pundits OSU didn't score enough points, but the Akron coach appeared to think that OSU scored too many points as he exchanged some words with Fickell after the game.

QBs
Joe Bauserman surprised the critics as he looked comfortable, threw good passes, ran a few times, and was vocal in the huddle and on the sideline. Bauserman threw 12 of 16 for 163 yards and three touchdowns. He also had a 15 yard touchdown run in the first quarter. Bauserman's three touchdowns were to tight end Jake Stonebruner, who had an OSU record for touchdown catches by a tight end. Braxton Miller only had one series in the first half, and it was a forgettable three and out. Bauserman stood on the sideline as Miller was the QB for most of the second half. Miller finished going 8 of 12 for 130 yards and one touchdown pass to Devin Smith.

Running Game
The running game was solid, despite the fact that the first, second, and third team running backs were not available. Carlos Hyde did not hit the century mark, but he did have 93 yards. Rod Smith had 74 yards and one rushing touchdown. Smith also had a lost fumble in the redzone. Also running the ball were QBs Bauserman with 32 yards and Miller with 30 yards.

Receivers
The receivers split the catches as Stonebruner had 50 yards, Verlon Reed had 66 yards, Devin Smith had 52 yards, and Ty Williams had 34 yards. Freshman wide receiver Evan Spencer had a circus one-handed catch in the fourth quarter that you will see on clip shows for weeks to come.

Defense
The defense kept the pedal to the floor all game, and limited Akron to 90 yards, five first downs, and 2 of 13 on third downs. The pressure was constant with five sacks by five different defenders and ten tackles for loss. The highlight clip for the defense had to be the interception by Andrew Sweat, who showed great balance, hands, and footwork in the catch.