Nebraska vs. Ohio State: Position Grades & Preview
Get ready for a clash of titans as the Nebraska Cornhuskers travel to Columbus to face the Ohio State Buckeyes! This Week 2 matchup promises excitement, and we're breaking down each position group to give you a glimpse into what to expect.
Nebraska's Offense: Can They Keep Up?
Quarterback (C+): Jeff Sims is a transfer from Georgia Tech, bringing a dynamic skillset to Lincoln. While he has the potential to be a playmaker, his accuracy and decision-making need to improve. He'll face a daunting task against a stout Ohio State defense.
Running Back (B): Nebraska boasts a strong running back duo in Anthony Grant and Ajay Allen. Grant is a reliable workhorse, while Allen brings explosiveness. They'll need to establish the run early to keep the Buckeyes' defense honest.
Wide Receiver (B): Trey Palmer and Isaiah Garcia-Castaneda lead a solid receiving corps. Palmer is a big-play threat, and Garcia-Castaneda provides consistency. However, the Cornhuskers need to create more separation to succeed against Ohio State's secondary.
Offensive Line (C): The offensive line has been a concern for Nebraska. They'll need to provide better pass protection for Sims and open holes for the running backs. This unit will be tested against a talented Ohio State defensive front.
Nebraska's Defense: Facing a Firestorm
Defensive Line (C): The Cornhuskers' defensive line is a work in progress. They'll have their hands full with Ohio State's potent running game. Creating pressure on Kyle McCord will be crucial.
Linebackers (C+): Nebraska's linebackers are a mixed bag. They'll need to be disciplined and aggressive in tackling, especially against Ohio State's dynamic offense.
Secondary (B): The secondary is Nebraska's strength. Malcolm Hartzog and Omar Brown provide experience and talent. However, they'll need to contain Ohio State's talented receiving corps.
Ohio State's Offense: A Force to Be Reckoned With
Quarterback (A): Kyle McCord is stepping into the starting role after a successful spring. He has a strong arm and the ability to make plays both in and out of the pocket.
Running Back (A+): Ohio State boasts a dynamic running back duo in TreVeyon Henderson and Miyan Williams. Henderson is a home run threat, while Williams is a powerful, between-the-tackles runner. They'll be a major challenge for Nebraska's defense.
Wide Receiver (A): Marvin Harrison Jr. is a game-changer. He's a true No. 1 receiver with elite route-running and hands. Emeka Egbuka and Julian Fleming add depth and experience to the receiving corps.
Offensive Line (A): Ohio State's offensive line is one of the best in the country. They'll open up holes for the running backs and keep McCord clean in the pocket.
Ohio State's Defense: Built for Success
Defensive Line (A): The defensive line is stacked with talent, led by J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer. They'll be looking to disrupt Nebraska's offense and create turnovers.
Linebackers (A): Tommy Eichenberg is a standout linebacker, and the Buckeyes have depth at this position. They'll be active in run support and coverage.
Secondary (A): Denzel Burke and Lathan Ransom are both experienced and talented defensive backs. They'll be tasked with containing Nebraska's passing attack.
The Verdict: Buckeyes Roll
While Nebraska has shown flashes of potential under new coach Matt Rhule, the gap in talent and experience is significant. Ohio State's offense is too potent, and their defense is too strong for Nebraska to handle.
Prediction: Ohio State 42, Nebraska 14
This game will be a great opportunity to see how far Nebraska has come under Rhule. But in the end, the Buckeyes' firepower should overwhelm the Cornhuskers.
Key Matchup: Ohio State's wide receivers vs. Nebraska's secondary. Can the Cornhuskers limit Harrison Jr. and the rest of the Buckeyes' receiving corps?
Don't Miss: This matchup kicks off a big season for both teams. Ohio State is looking to make a run at the College Football Playoff, while Nebraska hopes to take a major step forward under Rhule.