Any of you Buckeyes--or others--who like to nerd out on schemes, I have a question for you about Ryan Day/Kevin Wilson and the playoff game against Clemson.
Other than the fact it was a great game, I saw something in it that I had to go back and review more carefully to be sure I wasn't imagining it. I was surprised how much the Bucks kept the TE in to block when it looked like Venables left that open for attack most of the day. Looking for meaningful data on the upcoming LSU/Clemson final, that's what jumped out at me....I thought TE Moss would be the difference maker based on what Clemson was showing and how I thought they might defend LSU. That turned out to be legit, every defensive look gives up something, and while the game log will show just 5 catches and 1 TD for Moss, it can't be overstated how huge his grabs were. Even when he wasn't the target he stopped commitment in the box.
Looked like Ohio State gambled that they needed the TE in to block, but it sure looked like releasing him to draw away some LB and safety help would've made Clemson ease up a bit on the pressure looks, because MAN there were some seams open for the TE if Fields got it to him.
I watched maybe 5, 6 at the most, Ohio State games this year. Is the top TE a good pass catcher, and does Day usually make good use out of that? In the end I was left with the impression OSU could've won that game but didn't stress enough of the field often enough. That's what Clemson appeared ready to give up, and if they adjust for that, Dobbins probably goes off more and a guy like Olave doesn't get bracketed as much.