Ohio State will look to strike early when they face No. 3 Penn State this Saturday, aiming to exploit the Nittany Lions’ pattern of slower starts that has defined their season. Although Penn State is undefeated, they’ve consistently needed time to find rhythm offensively, often struggling to put points on the board in the first half before building momentum in the second. For the Buckeyes, seizing control early could be the key to securing a crucial victory in this highly anticipated top-3 showdown.
Led by quarterback Kyle McCord and star receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State’s high-powered offense has shown the ability to score quickly, a factor that could put immediate pressure on Penn State’s defense. The Buckeyes are known for their explosive passing game, and if they can get ahead early, they can force Penn State out of their comfort zone, making the Nittany Lions play catch-up. Ohio State’s offensive line will also need to give McCord ample time to exploit Penn State’s secondary, allowing Harrison and fellow receivers to make big plays down the field.
On the other side, Penn State’s offense, led by Drew Allar, has tended to find its footing later in games, wearing down opponents with a balanced attack that includes a potent running game. However, they’ve been prone to slow starts, and facing a team like Ohio State, they may not have the luxury of easing into the game. The Buckeyes’ defense, which has been one of the best in the Big Ten, will aim to limit Allar’s effectiveness early on, further disrupting Penn State’s flow.
c. An early deficit could push the Nittany Lions into taking more risks, which may lead to turnovers that Ohio State’s opportunistic defense can capitalize on. For both teams, this game is a potential stepping stone to the Big Ten title and a playoff berth, making a fast start crucial for Ohio State to command the game and exploit Penn State’s early-game struggles.
With stakes this high, look for Ohio State to push the tempo from the opening drive, aiming to gain control and capitalize on Penn State’s tendency for slow starts. This strategy could make all the difference as these two powerhouses vie for playoff positioning and Big Ten dominance.
