Notebook: No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes Turn Attention to Michigan Wolverines After Win vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers

Sawyer had six total tackles during Saturday's dominating win for the Ohio State Buckeyes over the Minnesota Golden Gophers, including a sack and 3.5 for a loss.

The No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes remain undefeated following Saturday's win over the Minnesota Golden Gophers, improving their record to 11-0 with a 37-3 victory.

Plenty of names contributed to the Buckeyes' triumph, both on offense and defense. Here are three of the biggest takeaways from the final game of the season in Ohio Stadium.

1. Ohio State's Defense Could Be Difference at Michigan

The Buckeyes have won a handful of games this season off the play of their defense. A major outing from defensive coordinator Jim Knowles' squad was not necessary to get past the Golden Gophers on Saturday, but could be next weekend against the No. 2 Michigan Wolverines.

Both Ohio State and Michigan have stellar offenses that match up pretty well across the board, but the Buckeyes defense appears to be a larger part of the team's success than in either of the past two run-ins with the Wolverines. With this being the case, "The Game" could come down to whichever defense plays better than its opponent.

2. The Buckeyes Can Win Without Marvin Harrison Jr.

Ohio State's top receiver did not have a massive outing tonight against Minnesota. Harrison finished with just three receptions for 30 yards and a touchdown. 

Despite how it might appear on the scoresheet, Harrison's quiet night is a good thing as Ohio State prepares to take on Michigan this coming weekend. Should the Wolverines manage to shut down the potential Heisman Trophy winner, the Buckeyes showed they have several other options on offense to whom they can turn for points.

3. Ohio State Can Finally Admit They've Been Focusing on Michigan for a While

The theme of post-game media availability centered around the Buckeyes' upcoming bout. Ohio State coach Ryan Day, Knowles and each of the players whom answered questions was asked about how long they've been thinking about the Wolverines.

While each respondent said they have been taking the season one game at a time and not singling Michigan out from the rest, fans and media both know there is more than a win or loss riding on "The Game." Regardless of whether their responses were truthful or not, Ohio State coaches and players are finally able to put all of their focus into what is objectively the most important game of their year.