Ohio State football: Why the Buckeyes’ defense will thrive against Wisconsin

The Ohio State football team has gone through a revamp on the defensive side of the ball this year, with the jury still out on the overall results. Here is why Wisconsin is the perfect opponent to showcase how good this unit really is.

As Ohio State prepares for the start of Big Ten play this weekend, there are not many questions on the offensive side of the ball. After the demolition that was the Toledo game, there are no concerns about C.J. Stroud and Co. being able to move the ball. The questions come on if the defense really has improved enough.

Giving up 21 points to Toledo last week left many with a sour taste about the defense and their ability to hold up against more difficult opponents. Rather than begin to sound the panic button, I am suggesting that the defense is right on track and has a huge opportunity to showcase its strengths against Wisconsin.

Ohio State comes into this game having a strong rushing defense and an average pass defense. Wisconsin comes into the game having a strong rushing attack and a surprisingly adequate passing game. However, the Badgers have yet to be tested to see if the early season results truly are indicative of what the team is able to do. This should play right into the hands of the Buckeyes.

Jim Knowles is going to be able to stack the box, get creative with blitz packages, and force the opposing team to beat them through the air. If history teaches us anything it is that Wisconsin is not going to win games if they are forced to win through the air. Even early this season, Wisconsin has been unable to take over a game through the air.

What hurt Ohio State last week was the ability of DeQuan Finn to extend plays with his feat and keep plays alive. That is one of his strengths and it helped the Rockets to two of their touchdowns. This week, the Buckeyes will be playing Graham Mertz who does not have as much talent with his legs. This changes everything.

The Buckeyes will have more opportunities to get pressure on the quarterback. More pressure is going to get home and result in sacks. And increased pressure and hits are going to cause Mertz to throw early and try to force the ball.

All in all, I am expecting a dominant performance from the Ohio State football team. That does not mean that they won’t give up a big play or two, but I think the unit forces multiple turnovers, has 4+ sacks, and ends up allowing fewer than 17 points.