Ohio vs. Ohio State In-Game Thoughts (Second Half)

Third Quarter:

Boeckman is just atrocious today. Granted, he's better than you and I; but, come on! Oh, and somebody's fallen asleep again. High snap. Fumble. Touchdown, Ohio. It's 14-6, and this one technically wouldn't even be a game if Ohio State didn't have its head jammed where the sun doesn't shine. They'll bring in Boom Herron at tailback now, and he breaks free for some big yardage. I don't understand why he hasn't been in for more snaps. I also have to question why Pryor was misused in the first half. Typical Tressel in not figuring out the offense until it's usually too late (mid-season). Anyhow, that fumble must have awakened the sleeping giant because Ohio State has finally showed up to play late in the third. They'll score a touchdown after a key Ohio fumble, but Pretorious must still be asleep as he misses an extra point. No excuse here.

Fourth Quarter:

Ohio State has intercepted Ohio four or five times and it's still a nail-biter. This wasn't supposed to happen. I bet the fans in attendance were looking to get in, get out, and go celebrate. This game reminds of the 2003 San Diego State game where Ohio State wouldn't have won if not for Will Allen's key interception midway through that contest. Anyhow, Ohio State is once again on the move after another pick. Here they come with Mo Wells on the move. No Herron. Why? Again, what is with the stupid decisions today? Regardless, Sane punches it in for Ohio State's first lead since the end of the first quarter. The defense comes up with a big stop, and now here goes Ray Small on the punt return breaking free. They're saying Ohio State got away with a clip. Still, Small runs it all the way back to make it 26-14. They'll bring Pryor in and let him actually run some plays if for no other explainable reason than to chew the rest of the clock away. Figures he'd be turned loose with the game already in the bag.

Final thoughts: Ohio is not a good football team, but they came in with no fear. Give them credit--they took it seriously and Ohio State didn't until the fourth quarter. This is not the warmup for USC that was expected. They miss Wells, but even with him, I'm not sure Ohio State can take down the nation's top ranked team Sept. 13.