Number 4 Ohio State is about to kickoff the Big Ten Championship today at noon in Indianapolis (on FOX) but in a morning status report the Buckeyes reported that they will be without 21 players for the game. Ohio State went 5-0 in a shortened season while missing two games due to Covid 19 breakouts, one against Maryland and an OSU cancellation against Illinois. A late rule change made the team eligible for the Championship Game today but the team continues to have some issues, most notably is leading receiver Chris Olave.

NCAA Championship Playoff Birth

If the Buckeyes can win against number 14 Northwestern (6-1), and they are favored by 20.5 points, this will be their fourth straight Big Ten title. The Ohio State football team also played Michigan State without 23 players, still able to handle them without a problem. A win puts them into the mix for the 6 team NCAA playoff including the Rose Bowl.

Unavailable Players

Players that are unavailable include linebacker Baron Browning, running back Steele Chambers, punter Drue Chrisman, defensive end Tyler Friday, quarterback Gunnar Hoak, wide receiver Chris Olave, wide receiver Jaxson Smith-Njigba, and many others.

New Targets for Just Fields

Olave is having a great season with 5 touchdowns and 528 yards on 36 receptions. Garrett Wilson and Jameson Williams will be the main targets today for quarter back Justin Fields with Olave out. Also look for receiver Demario McCall, tight end Jeremey Ruckert, and tight end Luke Farrell to be targets today.

2020 Ohio State Football: Big Ten Championship Trailer