You never forget your #1 (beating them, that is)
Ohio State Hate Week turned out better than expected. When the 6-time defending conference champion comes into your kitchen, it’s important to make sure they can’t cook for free. This time around, they couldn’t even find the damn oven until the 3rd quarter. One of Bielema’s main talking points is putting together a 4-quarter game. The Badgers certainly didn’t do that, but when you spot yourself a 21 point lead it’s tempting to keep doing what got you those points. The Buckeye’s didn’t cooperate on that point, when their pistol formation run game led to two touchdowns, making the game a harrowing 21-18 affair.
But, Paul Chryst showed why he’s been talked about for head coaching vacancies at Purdue and (now) Minnesota. After Clay and White were gashing the front 7 of Ohio State, Chryst dialed up 4 consecutive pass plays to start off the put-away touchdown drive. After that, it was all running backs: only 1 pass play to White broke up the remaining 35 yards to the end zone. If you can, check out White’s touchdown run. Between the hash mark and the sideline, there had to be around 5 defenders, and White makes them all miss. He’s got incredible vision for a freshman. He makes John Clay better, and John Clay makes him better. If Clay doesn’t declare for the draft, either Phillips or Budamyer should thank their lucky stars they have that tandem to lean on.
Additionally, I thought our defensive line did a hell of a great job on stopping Pryor. 50% completions is horrible for a college QB, and miserable for someone with Heisman aspirations. If Posey and Sanzenbacher didn’t bail him out on throws caused by JJ Watt pressure, you could probably take another 4 catches off. I couldn’t watch coverage as much as I’d like, but given how rarely Pryor had time to set his feet, I’m not sure it was ever an issue.
A special note on the crowd. Normally, it’ll get fairly loud for a third down. Every time Pryor broke the huddle the jet engines started. After being punched in the face by Gilreath, I’d imagine constantly hearing noise like that really separates you from your teammates, and makes you feel very small and helpless.
Overall, it didn’t feel like a game. It felt like a dream. Walking on the field afterwards, singing Varsity on the 50… That’s special.
