Ohio State Takes Colorado with Turnover Free Play
Terrelle Pryor replaced Todd Boeckman after an early season loss three years ago, it’s Deja-Vu all over again as Braxton Miller replaces Joe Boeserman to lead Ohio State past Colorado. Braxton Miller completed 5 for 13 passes against the Buffalos which was an important turn-around for Ohio State after only completing 4 passes last week against Miami. The 37-17 win gives the Buckeyes some confidence as they head into conference play against Michigan State this coming week.
Braxton Miller can run the ball which helps when the receivers cannot get open and the line protection breaks down. Some have reported that he is like an upper-classman in his play but they quickly have forgotten the early season turn-overs that might reappear when the competition gets more competitive and the Buckeyes take to the road again. Against Colorado he was calm and posed which helped the Buckeyes move the ball on a regular basis during the game this last Saturday.
Jordan Hall is the best running back on the team that isn’t suspended. And his kickoff returns were game changers. His 90 yard return setup a Carlos Hyde touchdown and put OSU clearly in charge after a Colorado field goal.
Devin Smith is Braxton Miller’s go-to receiver. Like Verlon Reed and Jake Stoneburner were the primary targets for Joe Bauserman. Smith showed great ability before he arrived on campus and has only improved since joining camp. With two touchdown catches on Saturday, he seemed a mismatch for their defensive backfield. Going forward, with Miller under center, Smith should continue to get chances and continue to make important plays for the Buckeyes in 2011.
Colorado put the ball on the carpet twice and lost possession both times. They could really move the ball with 237 yards passing on the day and 77 yards on the ground. But without defensive stops and the turnovers, they proved no match for Ohio State on the round. A team that came out with passion after a terrible loss on the field and a drop out of the national polls for the first time in two years.