Ohio State’s Final Home Game: Key Questions and Predictions

Ohio State will host Rutgers on November 25, 2023, in what is likely to be the last home game of the season for the Buckeyes. Unless Ohio State secures a first-round College Football Playoff game, this matchup at the Ohio Stadium marks a significant opportunity for the team to showcase their talents before the postseason. With a strong motivation to perform for their home crowd, the Buckeyes aim to send their seniors off on a high note.

The Buckeyes’ strategy may involve managing player fatigue, especially if they build a comfortable lead early in the game. This approach allows the coaching staff to rest key players ahead of the pivotal rivalry game against Michigan the following week. One of the major storylines to follow is the availability of star wide receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate. Coach Ryan Day has provided limited updates on their statuses, leaving fans wondering if they will feature in this crucial encounter. Ohio State faces the dilemma of risking their health against a less formidable opponent like Rutgers.

In their absence, quarterback Julian Sayin will have the chance to develop chemistry with other wideouts, including Brandon Inniss, Bryson Rodgers, and Mylan Graham. This experience becomes invaluable as the season progresses, particularly with the postseason on the horizon. The Buckeyes’ receiving corps will need to step up, especially considering the significant drop-off in performance without Smith and Tate.

Rutgers presents a formidable challenge on the offensive front, boasting the fourth-best scoring offense Ohio State has faced this season. The Scarlet Knights feature a 1,000-yard rusher and a 900-yard receiver, along with a capable quarterback. Despite this offensive strength, the Buckeyes have demonstrated exceptional defensive prowess, currently ranking first nationally in scoring defense and total defense. Only one team, the Fighting Illini, has managed to score more than 14 points against Ohio State this season.

Day emphasized the importance of respecting Rutgers as a Big Ten opponent, but many observers anticipate that the game could be decided by halftime. Should the Buckeyes take control early, they may opt to rest their starters, allowing less experienced players to gain valuable game time before the Michigan matchup.

The Scarlet Knights’ struggles on defense are highlighted by their current ranking, allowing an average of 6.55 yards per rushing attempt—the worst in the nation. This statistic presents an excellent opportunity for Ohio State’s running game. Freshman running back James Peoples is expected to capitalize on this vulnerability. Following a standout performance against UCLA, where he recorded six carries for 42 yards and two touchdowns, Peoples aims to solidify his position among Ohio State’s top backs.

Defensive tackle Malone is another player to watch in this game. Having improved significantly throughout the season, Malone will be motivated not only by it being Senior Day but also by the chance to play against his hometown team. The presence of family in attendance could serve as an added incentive for his performance.

Sayin’s ability to distribute the ball effectively could lead to a productive outing for the Buckeyes’ receiving group. While two-tight end sets may reduce the number of snaps for Rodgers and Graham, Inniss is expected to build upon his six-catch performance from last week. The Rutgers defense has struggled against the pass, ranking 125th in yards allowed per attempt, suggesting that there will be opportunities for Ohio State’s wideouts to make impactful plays.

This matchup also holds sentimental value for the Styles family, as Lorenzo Styles Sr., a former linebacker at Ohio State, will see his sons, Sonny and Lorenzo Jr., participate in their final home game. The potential for a memorable play from either son adds an emotional layer to the contest.

Given Rutgers’ poor run defense, Ohio State is poised to execute a run-heavy game plan. The Buckeyes have not achieved 300 rushing yards in a game since 2022, but this matchup presents a prime opportunity to reach that milestone. With a deep roster of running backs, including Bo Jackson, Isaiah West, and C.J. Donaldson, Ohio State is well-equipped to handle the workload while keeping individual carries manageable.

As the Buckeyes prepare for their final home game, fans can expect a dynamic performance featuring both established stars and emerging talents. The game against Rutgers will serve as a crucial final tune-up before heading into one of the most significant rivalries in college football.