Ohio State Football: This Buckeye could be Peach Bowl unsung hero

The Ohio State football team is two weeks away from playing Georgia in the Peach Bowl. This one player could be key for the Buckeyes.

The Ohio State football team and head coach Ryan Day really missed senior offensive guard Matthew Jones against Michigan. Jones was banged up for most of the season and just couldn’t go in the game. His replacement, Enokk Vimahi did not play well and was pulled quickly for backup tackle Josh Fryar. Fryar gave a good effort, but it was noticeable that a healthy Jones was needed on the interior against the Wolverines’ defensive line.

Fast forward to the Peach Bowl as Ohio State will face its toughest challenge in Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter, and it’s not even close. Carter is a force in the interior as not many offensive lines have been able to stop him this season.  He is currently projected as a top-five NFL Draft pick by just about every service.

The Buckeyes will surely need a fully healthy Matthew Jones to stand any chance at stopping Carter, who arguably is the best defensive player in college football. Being able to keep Carter contained might be the single most important thing for Ohio State in this game in order to win.

We haven’t seen a fully healthy Matthew Jones since early in the season. And he played very well. Hopefully this time off has given Jones enough time to heal up and be ready for this unbelievable challenge.

Georgia likes to get pressure on the quarterback with its front four and when a player like Carter is blowing up the interior, it will make C.J. Stroud’s job almost impossible. While a healthy Jones playing well is absolutely key, so is the play of center Luke Wypler who will have to help on Carter.

If the Buckeyes want any chance at winning it starts up front with its offensive line. A healthy Matthew Jones could be the difference in whether or not the line plays well. And if Jones can keep Carter at bay, he surely will be the unsung hero of the Peach Bowl.