There is a “toughness” to running the ball consistently and stopping it. I am used to Ohio State having that toughness. It seems to be missing most of the time. Don’t get me wrong, the mental toughness seems to be there, as evidenced by their ability to separate late in games.
I have some theories about this as well, and it could be one or some combination of the following( or totally not, just theories):
- ever notice how there is a correlation between pass happy teams, and their inability to run/ run defend consistently? I have heard many coaches and analysts discuss this through the years, with the thought being they spend a high % of practice time on the passing games when they go starters v starters.
-lack of player leadership. OSU has always had at least one O- line and one D-line person that walked the walk. think about Price and Decker and Linsley. Who is it this year-on defense it was Bosa, but I noticed it dropped off after his injury. Who on the offensive line is a tough ass leader?
- the whole Meyer suspension. Does anyone else see a much softer version of him than was there before?
They may still come around on it, as it is not always present for teams until you get down the stretch. Thoughts?
