A look at the key factors and matchup that could put Ohio State in position to beat Toledo on Saturday night.
How can the Buckeyes get to 3-0? Here are three keys forExpect some resolve from Toledo. This is a program that gave Notre Dame a scare last September and has pulled off upsets of other blue-bloods in Alabama, Michigan and Penn State over the past two decades. Letting the Rockets hang around early is flirting with danger, as Notre Dame found out 12 months ago before prevailing by a field goal.
Ohio State is averaging an extra 20 yards in penalties per game this season, and the sloppiness has kept its defense on the field longer. On Arkansas State’s second drive on Saturday, one that resulted in a field goal, more than half of the yards it gained came as a result of the Buckeyes’ penalties. Twice they were flagged for 15 yards, including a leaping foul and pass interference, leading to first downs for the Red Wolves’ offense. The Buckeyes should not let the trend catch up to them.