Texas’s D has been playing with a fire under their ass since the AZ state game at the end of last year. The addition of Mushcamp has kept this D playing at its highest level since Derek Johnson way blowing people up, so I don’t think being “pissed off” (if they even are-this season has already far exceeded expectations for this squad) makes any difference in the outcome of this game from the defensive standpoint. Make no mistake; this is the best front 7 in the entire country. That being said, they are not best suited to stop mobile QB’s (watch the Baylor game). If Pryor is able to elude the rush, he will certainly have some breakdowns in the secondary to take advantage of. That’s not to say that this secondary is not good, but I think it is important to remember that both safeties are freshmen and have blown coverage on several occasions this year. On the other side, Colt is going to be throwing against the best secondary he has seen since he played Ohio state 2 years ago. I don’t see Cosby/Shipley having the quick route releases that kill most defenses UT has faced. This quick/short passing game is going to be even more important for UT because they will have zero running room against the Ohio st. front 7. Remember, this is still one of the most experienced defenses in the country with next level talent all over. And then there’s Beanie. Beanie is going to be playing for something much more inspiring than pride or school spirit this game. He will be playing for the right to join a tax bracket you and I only dream about. I look for him to wear down this Texas D in the 3rd and 4th and make a statement to potential NFL suitors. This is not going to be a cakewalk for Texas by any means, but I still feel that Texas wins with their 3rd down execution late in the game. If this line grows to 12+ by game time, I will be likely put a stake on OHIO. If it stays around 10, I will stay away. I think that the UNDER 55 is the strongest play for this game. With Texas’s punter/coverage (yes, they will have to punt a few times) OHIO will be facing long fields all day. On the flip side, Texas will get into the red zone often, but I think OHIO’s D has the ability to hold them to more field goals than were accustomed to seeing with Texas. These two teams are the 3rd and 4th best defenses in the country in my opinion.(1Florida/2USC)
As always, thanks for the insight.