OSU at Michigan
State
October 18
Overview:
The relationship between Mark Dantonio and Jim Tressel will
always be intriguing. The Spartan
program is taking a turn for the better and 2008 should be an exceptional
year. Ohio State
nearly gave the game away last year as the Spartans scored twice on
defense. With Homecoming and the Penn
State Nittany Lions on the slate for the following week, the Buckeyes will have
to keep their minds on the game at hand or they could hit a speed bump in the
road to the National Championship.
By Pete Quint
Preview:
The Spartans return their two best players on offense in
quarterback Brian Hoyer and running back Javon Ringer. Hoyer and Ringer should keep Michigan State in games until the defense, which
has been decimated by attrition, comes together as a unit. The Ohio State
offense should feast on the lack of experience on the defensive side while
holding the Spartan offensive attack in check.
Outcome:
The Spartans are close but still need some seasoning. Dantonio has the team pointed in the right
direction but the lack of experience will put Ohio State
on top. Look for a big day from Beanie
Wells and the OSU ground game as the offensive line wears down a smaller
defensive line.