What school has the nerve, the audacity, the pomp to call themselves the University?
No, it does not originate in AnnArbor. The Ohio State University comes to East Lansing this weekend as reigning BigTen champion and undefeated in the conference. Although the precedes the name of the university their recent bowl games have grounded this team.
There is no crying in football!Unless you've been derailed from your championship run by a team like, oh I don't know, Michigan State.
In 1998 the Buckeyes, playing in front of a home crowd, entered the night game #1 in the land. Leading 24-9 in the fourth quarter OSU fell apart. A late interception sealed the MSU victory. Tears followed.
The secondary coach for the 1998 Spartans? Dantonio. The 2007 matchup was headed towards a blowout until 2 turnovers turned into 14 quick points.
The 2008 game will depend primarily on 3 things.
1. How will Pryor perform (will OSU move the pocket, turn him loose, or make him stand and throw?) If Pryor moves the pocket and tucks the ball to run MSU will have a long day.
2. Will MSU's play calling keep the OSU linebackers on their heels? If throws to the tight ends and WR's on slants are accurate Ringer should find some room to run. I don't trust opening up the pass by throwing deep; the OSU corners are too good.
I predict a close game that turns on kicking, punting, and capitalizing on turnovers.
3. MSU's defense containing the run. OSU does not have serious deep threats (see: Ted Ginn) and should be able to keep Wells around 100 yards. The combination of Pryor and Wells off end, much like Indiana, could cause problems. Hitting Pryor early and often and switching up the blitzes will be key.
MSU - 23
OSU - 17
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