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The line on Ohio State? It's offensive at best
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Purdue coach Joe Tiller applauded his defense for keeping Ohio State out of the end zone during a 16-3 defeat last week — the Buckeyes tallied three field goals and a special-teams TD — but Tiller should be careful not to give that unit too much credit for its performance.
Meager offensive outputs have become the norm at OSU this season.
In the Big Ten, the Buckeyes are a dismal 10th in total offense, while Michigan is 11th. The Wolverines probably deserve a pass since they're phasing in a new system with heavy player turnover, but OSU has no such excuse.
In fact, offensive problems have surfaced frequently during Jim Tressel's tenure. In his seven previous seasons, the Buckeyes have finished sixth or worse in the league in total offense six times. The lone exception was a second-place showing in 2006 when Troy Smith won the Heisman.
How can a program that consistently pulls in one of the top two recruiting classes in the conference be so feeble on offense? Some point to Tressel's play-calling, labeling it predictable, and others cite a lack of second-half adjustments. I'm no expert, but I believe the pillow-soft offensive line is to blame.
I can't ever recall the unit just overpowering an opposing front four. The group even had trouble opening holes against the likes of Ohio U. and Troy.
The Buckeyes are heading into the meat of their schedule, meaning they'll need to find an answer soon. If not, other coaches will emerge from their clashes with OSU just as happy as Tiller.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2125
or at dharris@DaytonDailyNews.com.
