Ohio State Football: 3 Bold Predictions for Minnesota game

Jan 1, 2020; Tampa, Florida, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers head coach PJ Fleck (yellow tie) walks on the field after defeating the Auburn Tigers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2020; Tampa, Florida, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers head coach PJ Fleck (yellow tie) walks on the field after defeating the Auburn Tigers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Ohio State football team continues to play elite defense. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
The Ohio State football team continues to play elite defense. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 2: Buckeye defense gets three turnovers in this game

The Ohio State football team ranks just 81st in the nation in turnover margin. I think that number changes in a big way against the Golden Gophers. While Ohio State did not get a turnover last weekend against Michigan State, they completely dominated the game.

This Buckeye defense is starting to hit its stride at the right time, even without star safety Lathan Ransom who appears to be lost for the season. It’s a huge blow, but Ohio State does have some options to replace him.

Related Story. Ohio State Football Schedule Prep: Minnesota Golden Gophers. light

Sonny Styles will be asked to play more of a deep safety role with Ransom out, and he should get plenty of opportunity against the Gophers to make an impact on the backend. Minnesota needs to win this game to become bowl-eligible, so I expect P.J. Fleck to throw the ball and be aggressive, something the Spartans were not a week ago.

Look for the defensive line to get home and maybe cause a fumble or two. Jack Sawyer has had a very good season, even if his sack numbers don’t reflect it. I think he’s due to have a game. Look for some tipped balls, interceptions, and a whole lot of fun from the defense as they get three turnovers and continue their dominance over inferior opponents.