Auggie
Well-known member
Always love when "anonymous" coaches weigh in on a big game:
A few quick takes of interest:
Penn State-Ohio State confidential: Rival coaches on X-factors, weaknesses … and Michigan
We spoke with eight coaches whose teams have gone head-to-head with either the Buckeyes or Nittany Lions to get their assessment of both.
theathletic.com
A few quick takes of interest:
- There seems to be a Penn State bias in the way this thing is written, much more critical of tOSU's weaknesses than Penn State's. As an example no mention at all of Penn State's weakest position group, WR.
- On the positive for tOSU most tend to think they have the best position group for either side in their WR room. Also called out that the DL is playing very well this year, in particular both edges. Most said Holtz is wrong on his take and tOSU can play physical.
- On the down side they call out Fryar as a weak link but surprisingly also the DBs. “Their safeties and corners are actually average, maybe even below average,” one assistant said. “I know that’s a crazy thing to say about Ohio State, but I think the corners are overrated and the safeties are average.” Not sure I agree with this take, especially if it is coming from the offensive coordinator at say IU who saw these guys the 1st week.
- For Penn State they really think Allard is due for a break out game, especially against this tOSU secondary but then again just mentioned in passing the WRs have yet to hit a long deep TD. They also love the outside of the Penn State defense, especially edges and CBs, they also think their LBs can keep the run game in check and hold their own against Stover.
- The big negative listed for Penn State is Franklin and his inability to win a big road game. That is it.
- So of course most are picking Penn State to win with a key for them at some point being able to hit a big play.
- Both are a step below Michigan with Penn State being a tougher match up for the Wolverines since that game is at Happy Valley.