Ohio State's aerial assault is the main reason they beat the Badgers

Ohio State struggled to run the ball against Wisconsin, which could be a case of too many cooks in the kitchen at running back, but that’s another story. For whatever reason, Ohio State didn’t run the ball well, totaling only 98 yards on the ground. Julian Sayin, Jeremiah Smith, and Carnell Tate decided to more than make up for it through the air.

The Buckeyes' average of 36.8 points per game was 23rd in the country and was nearly reached in the 34-0 victory. They exceeded their 421.5 total yards per game with 491. 393 of them were courtesy of the passing game.

It’s a tremendous help that the offensive line protects Julian Sayin and that Sayin avoids pressure and holding onto the ball on the rare occasions they may falter. They had allowed only two sacks this season and gave up only one to Wisconsin. Ohio State had the second fewest sacks allowed, and that helps Sayin be so accurate.

Julian Sayin was 36 of 42 for 393 yards and four touchdowns for the Buckeyes. Sayin is the most accurate passer in college football, completing 80% of his passes this season. He is 156 of 195 for 1,872 yards and 19 touchdowns and only three interceptions. His completion percentage is first in the nation, his yards are 13th, and his touchdowns are tied for 2nd. Throwing it to Carnell Tate and Jeremiah Smith helps, but Sayin is doing his part.

Smith had an “off” game against Wisconsin and had nine catches for 97 yards. He has 49 catches for 602 yards and eight total touchdowns. His catches rank sixth, his yards are tied for 13th, and his touchdowns are tied for 3rd.

Tate had a huge game against Wisconsin with six catches for 111 yards and two touchdowns. He has 34 catches for 587 yards and six touchdowns. His yards rank 17th, and his touchdowns are tied for fourth. With special teams and rushing the ball being hit or miss, the number one team in America can rely on their elite defense and their passing game of Sayin to Tate and Smith.