Mike West

Well, Let's see if I can be brief about this... 1. Ohio State, despite their struggles on defense, answered the bell every time we scored. They are damn near unstoppable, and they have some mismatches we cannot defend. 2. They will improve on defense. I've paid tons of attention to this 'immediate threat' of ours. While I was pretty sure OBD would explode on them, I wasn't sure they would do so an entire game. Now they know what they're looking at. They will adjust, and OBD better be ready. 3. We left a lot on the table. Probably another 14 points. They would have answered. Again, that offense is virtually unstoppable. 4. DL once again put the game on the line on 4th down-twice. He got away with it...this time. I like his aggression, and once again, Stein called the exact play to score a TD (but once again our QB misread the play). DL has to trust the defense more. They executed several times to give the offense its chance to seal the deal. 5. Lupoi stepped up on Saturday. I've said many a time that I do not like our defensive formation up front. Ohio State shredded it. But Lupoi baited Chip. He kept the front, but attacked the 'weakness'. I'm not expert (coach speak and strategy) enough to explain why, but he did it. Tons of commentators, and fans complained about Chip abandoning the running attack in the second half. It was a direct response to Lupoi's adjustments. Chip will have an answer in response. 6. While I do believe we are more physical than Ohio State, I do not believe that translates to much of an advantage. Their skill players are as good as ours, and Chip uses Will Howard's strengths very, very well. We will have much more to contend with the next time we play them. 7. The reasons above are why I believe the narrative from both the Buckeyes, their fans and the media responded the way they have. They didn't see what we left on the table, they saw how well Ohio State kept responding despite the way we played. We dictated the physical aspect of the game. They didn't blink one bit. 8. We will need Birch and Holden next time. Despite Ohio State's huge loss on the offensive line. 9. OBD will have to play a cleaner game than they played Saturday. We have to remember, that Pass Interference play did significantly alter the result of the game. We exploited it perfectly, but if that was simply a completion, we lose that game. Despite what many of us believe was a game in which we outplayed them. Can we beat them one or two more times? I saw tremendous growth from OBD last week. As long as that growth continues, they have a chance to not only take care of Ohio State, but Texas as well (or any other juggernaut that emerges over the next 6-9 weeks). Again, championships are won by the slightest of margins. Every play matters. Performing at your peak on every play matters. Mistakes, even the little ones, can be fatal. We got as much luck last Saturday as they did. Both teams made mistakes-and both fan bases were emphatic about it. Because everyone understands a mistake is more likely to lose a game than a great play will win it. Fingers crossed, because we are going to ride a serious roller coaster the next three months!

You said it better than I tried to explain that. I agree-his apology to the team is far more important. I'm sure they had his back, but man, talk about a mistake that could have had significant consequences. Traeshon Holden is a huge piece of the puzzle for this team. Not much difference than losing Birch on defense. That said, he does represent far more than himself. So I understand the range of emotions about the incident and how some feel he should be punished harshly. Back when we old geezers played, that may have been the end of his football career at the school, much less football period. I personally felt disgusted, yet very concerned for Holden. We expect so much from these kids, and too many of them never had the foundation to rise to the standards we hold dear in this country. That's no excuse, just the facts. That is one of the greatest aspects of what college sports ( and sports from an early age ) have done for way too many of these kids. They finally are channeled in an institution that hopefully matriculates them into society with better standards, and an impulse to rise to those standards. That's one of the important components of this issue-Holden is right where he needs to be to become a much better man. Who he is associating with inside and outside of the football program is going to materially affect his future. Fortunately, he is in good hands. Let's hope he grows substantially from this experience.

Like the one when he pushed his defender ten yards backwards and his legend grew exponentially (series clincher versus Utah)!!! Talk about lame. And I love MJ. Yet that was ridiculous.

I believe he should have apologized in a press conference that night. Seeing him personally speak would have demonstrated exactly who he is. I doubt he is as insincere as the Media driven letter appears ( nothing against him, but it looked like every other apology we've seen from politicians, actors, other athletes etc.). NBC caught his authentic reaction best. He obviously wasn't going to be a distraction from the game press conference, but a significant player like he is should have had his moment live and in person. CFB is damn near the NFL already. An NFL WR had to appear to explain his encounter with the Miami Police. This seems to me to be no different. He is a major cog for a major team. The University shouldn't shield him from the consequences of his actions. He was man enough to spit in someone's face. He should be man enough to explain his actions in front of the press. This is what the kids wanted. Money, fame accolades. Attention and praise. Well there's another side to the coin. Not to mention, he absolutely knows he impacted the team, and completely minimized his exposure on the big stage. He has to wait for the playoffs now to demonstrate his skills. And he already was killing it Saturday. No amount of suspension time can make up for that. Mike, can you say that in less than five thousand words lol

And the Sack/Fumble/TD... And the elbow on the ground, give them an extra thirty yards. If a team has ever been punished just existing, it's the team trying to join the Blueblood club. OBD.

You know, I'm surprised nobody brought up DL's decision to go for it on 4th and Goal instead of taking the points late, and two drives earlier that 4th and 1 at midfield ( I think) instead of punting. Is everyone getting used to DL's aggressive nature, or is it because he won last night? I for one don't trust our short range FG kicker. Though he was clutch when the chips were down. If given the chance earlier, that would have forced Ohio State to score a TD on their last drive had he converted. I thought the decisions were pretty risky. Though Ohio State was playing lights out all game. Any thoughts on that? Bueller? Bueller?

Yeah, I read a bunch of garbage last night. Will Howard is not an elite QB, Ryan Day can't win big games, etc. I had to tell a few of them they are spoiled brats and should thank their lucky stars they have both, and stop disrespecting teams that are as good as or better than them. This is the third of four years they lost by inches and the fan base acted like they lost by miles. I've been watching this since the summer. Ohio State fans are insufferable. It's almost disgusting. They're exactly what I hope we never become : entitled and spoiled brats with no class or humility.

Excellent article Jordan! Reminds me of the awesome Sports Illustrated articles of decades past . If this were a magazine, you could have written another 500-800 words just like that, and I swear, it would have flowed just as artistically. You asked why OBD won. So much to cover, but you got the main points. And you hinted ever so slightly of the main reason: the coaches crafted a game plan to deal with Ohio State's advantages, and adjusted better than I've seen in Lanning's short history. There's much to go into that, but I observed more poise from the team, more decisiveness and confidence against a team that matches up evenly with OBD, and the knack to turn momentum their way throughout the game. OBD were clutch last night. They didn't blink in the face of constant flux, and the coahing staff had an answer for everything the Buckeyes gave them. The staff accepted some physical and strategic disadvantages, and exploited mismatches they scouted out very well. The team was far more consistent than I expected, and they played like they wanted to win. Mistakes and all, they showed more grit last night than I've ever seen from Lanning's players ( even better than the Seattle game last year ). That was the best display of winning the mental battle I've seen since Chip's Natty team. They demonstrated next level effort mentally last night. Even if they had lost, this team, like Ohio State is showing, they are absolutely top three caliber. We will see if Texas is on that level next week. Make no mistake, this team showed last night they have the right stuff to win a Natty.

I thought Howard was more consistent than Gabriel. Dillon threw some absolutely beautiful passes tonight. If DG had just three more accurate throws and one proper read, we're talking another ten points on the board. DG faced more pressure over the duration of the game in my "super hack" opinion. Ohio State fans are going to blame Howard tonight. They couldn't be more (absolutely) wrong. Oklahoma and KSU sure made major mistakes going with potential instead of proven experience. Both teams would be undefeated this very moment, and KSU would be ahead by 14 as I write.

The little things...to be discussed after the game. Lessons. The things necessary to execute. No criticism of the players or coaches. This has been a good game. You should see what Ohio State's fan base is saying right now. They are incredulous at the moment. They actually can't believe OBD are this good.

But do I trust the FG kicker? Absolutely not

Yes, I would have punted the ball...,,🤣🤣🤣🤣

We match up physically with them. We have an advantage with the skill players on offense. This isn't about where the score is, it is about ability. Win or lose today, NOBODY is going to say Oregon is overrated. Nobody. Just like that nice touch pass to Tez Johnson. Just like the physicality shown running the ball. Stein deliberately ran the ball to kill the clock, showing HE KNOWS WE CAN POWER DOWN THE FIELD. The results won't matter today. It's about what we learn today that matters. The win would be nice. The lessons are more important.

Remember folks, we want to win. But you have to realize, no matter what, OBD have shown they are Natty contenders. The mistakes can be cleaned up. So far, OBD have outplayed tOSU. This is a game of a few key things. Self inflicted errors and definitely officiating have affected this game. The little things.... they really won't change the fact we are truly title worthy.

28-23 Ohio State 1 2 230 Though I believe OBD are talented enough to win this game, I don't believe the offense is running on all cylinders yet. I hope I'm wrong!

I wasn't surprised USC lost. It was a matchup problem for USC. Minnesota's loss to Iowa skewed expectations for the Gophers. They changed their philosophy on offense after that. They are far more balanced and they throw the ball much better than they did at the beginning of the season. That is USC's kryptonite - a balanced offense that can pass the ball. In addition, USC is not playing well on the road this year. They're in for a long season. The B1G only has 3 elite teams, but the middle of the pack can hurt you if you don't come ready to play. USC will not be excellent until they get an elite defense. That may not happen at all with Lincoln Riley.

Can't argue with last year's results. I didn't like the midterm results, but I expected the loss. I came away very impressed with that midterm. Told me all I needed to know about one Dan Lanning. The players have to execute their fundamental assignments first. To allow for them to execute overall. That's really all football is about. Coaches have different philosophies about what fundamental football is. I am more than satisfied with what DL considers fundamental football. I have not been satisfied with said execution of fundamental football from the players. Not that they're underperforming, they just don't lock down the simple things. That's why they lost last year. My opinion of course. And we know what I consider fundamental football. I've more than pointed it out. In my opinion, if the players do that, they'll go undefeated. They're definitely good enough if they take care of the little things.

Good observation. I'm wondering if DG is holding on to the ball too long because he's had the luxury to. Even against the two potato heads, he held the ball for long periods. I believe that's why his NFL eval was a surprise to him. You don't get that luxury against elite teams. I'll tell you this though. I've seen enough Oklahoma footage to grasp this guy is a gamer. He's pretty much the same QB. I'm not worried about this game. I'm concerned about what we learn from this game. What the team does with some of the fundamental things we're going to learn about the team against one of the best in the country. What kind of adjustments will be necessary whether OBD win or lose.

Folks, I believe it's important to look at this game as the first midterm of the year. This game will not define the season. This is much like the game in Seattle last year. Duck Nation went absolutely out of their minds and even national pundits started questioning DL. DeBoer is getting grilled just one week after a defining victory over Georgia. Kirby Smart is being judged by his record against Alabama. It's one game. Mistakes will be made. Nobody is going to die on Saturday. This game will truly be about how OBD play/coach and what they learn from it. This game will really be more about the process than the results because the ultimate results will come from what we gleam from Saturday's game. So please , do not overreact this week. I promise, I will not yell on screen at any player that looks at the QB instead of covering his area or man ( matchup zone is the definition) this week. I already know it's going to happen. I already know the Safeties and Linebackers will determine who wins this game. I already know the offense will not adjust the way I expect it to this week. It's what the coaches and players respond to that matters to me this week. Win or lose. Because you can bet your entire existence on the fact that every playoff caliber team will scour over every aspect of this game. This game is the first in a series of high caliber contests OBD will face this year. This game is a get to know you game. It is not going to be something you can take an iron brand, stick it in fire, and plant on your cow. Try to evaluate the game, not just any particular moment. Or any particular coach, or player. Let nature take it's course. We are in the conversation amongst the best in the business. Remember that. Savor that. 120 teams and their respective fan bases don't get that privilege. This is the first test of several. It's not the final exam by any means.

I don't think people realize Vandy is a much better team than years past. This team is a lot like James Franklin's teams when they had Jay Cutler. You have to beat Vandy now. They don't self destruct like they used to, and they are pretty physical. The other thing, which was brought up in the NIL thread, is parity is coming to college football. I believe it will mostly come from elite players slacking more often because they're getting paid now. They're not going to be as motivated by titles or teamwork. This will allow teams like Arkansas and Vandy, even teams like Indiana and Cal to tarnish the blue bloods. I like the fact that the conferences did away with divisions. That allows teams like Rutgers and Kentucky a better shot at going 10-2. To me, that means you still have to focus on 12-0 and 11-1 because head to head matchups aren't always going to be the factor that earns teams a playoff spot. Georgia, Bama, and Tennessee are now on the chopping block. They have to go undefeated moving forward just to be in the playoff conversation. Despite this, I believe some players just won't earn their chops. That's what happens when you're too young to grasp the enormity of your responsibility to others. Happens in the NFL all the time. I just hope NIL stays private, and a collective bargaining agreement for the players only allows equal pay for all the players - in other words no individual contracts signed between the school and a player - more like employee driven contracts like the unions have with companies. I won't watch an NFL game unless it's two elite teams or the playoffs. I just don't subscribe to spoiled brats getting paid crazy money because NFL owners are stupid enough to drive the market higher than it should be ( in my opinion ). Though I do believe the owners should be paying two thirds of their expenses to players like every other business does ( it just doesn't get spread justly - you know- that market value thing). I don't want college football to resemble any aspect of the NFL.

Great observation Solar. Didn't think about that. Lots to look forward to next Saturday.

Offense has more upside. This game will help them determine what they'll need to work on for the playoffs. OBD have enough ability to go undefeated, but a loss during the season, and especially here, will give them information on what to work on for the playoffs. This team should go 11-1 at worst. It's all mental now. Execution will be absolutely necessary. So the penalties must end at this point. Tough to be perfect, but it is going to be absolutely necessary to be as close to perfect next Saturday and in the playoffs as possible That should be the new standard: less than three broken assignments, and/or three unforced errors. I see focus issues, but I see plenty of poise being demonstrated. Plenty of upside on the intangibles for OBD. That's how championships are won.

Well given that, you're probably correct. He was clearly going for the ball. If he wanted to, he could have really hurt Ferguson. As in helmet to helmet, or even using his shoulder pads. It totally looked like he refused to take that kind of shot, and he definitely had the opportunity to. That was a Jack Tatum moment if I ever saw one- like the one where he paralyzed Daryl Stingley ( during a preseason game at that). It probably would have cost him the season, and a fight may have ended the game. I wasn't aware the rules didn't take intent into consideration. So many of the calls it is clear the defender is reacting to how the player he tackles behaves. Sometimes the defenseless player is defenseless after making a split second decision to be defenseless, and the tackler can't change his decision or momentum because he doesn't have time to change his tackling angle once he's off the ground.

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