What to Expect

UC has struggled to stop teams on third down, allowing teams to convert 50%, which is one of the worst percentages in the nation. The biggest weakness on the UC defense is the passing defense, which allows over 292 yards/game. Cincinnati has not faced a defense like Ohio State and Ohio State has not faced a passing offense like Cincinnati. If those cancel out (although they are not equal) UC is left with a running game which has not had the same success as the passing game. That being said, UC may have some easy rushing yards if OSU sits back and waits for the passing game. I anticipate this will be a high scoring game with both teams moving the ball. Ohio State needs to avoid turnovers and empty possessions on offense. The newly revamped OSU passing defense will finally have its first real test and should limit Cincinnati to 200 passing yards while the UC running game will be limited to 125 yards. Ohio State will have 275 passing yards and 200 rushing yards. Ohio State will win 38-21.