The Ohio State Buckeyes are the top team in the country, and they're about to take on one of the worst teams in the Big Ten: the Rutgers Scarlet Knights.
However, while the game should be an easy win for the defending National Champions, it is also a chance for the team to ensure they are fully prepared for the team they are more than likely to face in the Big Ten Championship: the Indiana Hoosiers.
The Hoosiers, while "just" the second team in the conference standings, are also the second-ranked team in the nation and are also just one of three undefeated teams remaining.
Rutgers offense can get Ohio State ready for Indiana
Out of all the power conference teams in the country, the Scarlet Knights average the most yards per play on run-pass options against FBS opponents, only trailing the SEC's Arkansas Razorbacks.
Don't worry, the Buckeyes rank fourth in the standings, and their defense is one of the best in the world. However, with Rutgers' dominance in the ground game, it can get the Ohio State defense in the right space to do even better against Indiana just a few weeks later.
RPOs are working well for these offenses pic.twitter.com/YtKdETVUUN
— CFB Film Room (@CFBFilmRoom) November 19, 2025
No, in The Game, the Michigan Wolverines won't pose the running threat that everyone thought they would with star RBs Justice Haynes and Jordan Marshall both struggling with injuries this season. So, it really comes down to Rutgers to prepare the Buckeyes' defensive line.
Defensive end Caden Curry, linebacker Arvell Reese, defensive end Kanyatta Jackson Jr., and defensive lineman Kayden McDonald lead Ohio State in sacks and tackles for loss this season. They will have to continue that trend on Saturday.
This weekend, on Nov. 22, the top-ranked Buckeyes and unranked Scarlet Knights are scheduled to kick off at noon ET, and the game will be broadcast on FOX.