NOTEBOOK: Mistakes from No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes Give No. 3 Michigan Wolverines 30-24 Victory
The No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes sustained their first loss of the season, falling to the No. 3 Michigan Wolverines 30-24 on Saturday in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
For the third-straight year, the Wolverines were too much for the Buckeyes in the annual meeting between the historic rivals.
Ohio State made plenty of mistakes throughout the course of the game, which contributed to the loss. Here are three of the biggest takeaways from 'The Game.'
1. Ohio State Needs to Learn How to Run the Ball Against Michigan
The Buckeyes ran for 107 yards today, of which 60 yards came from running back TreVeyon Henderson. Ohio State has racked up an average of 107.4 yards against Michigan over the last three games, while allowing approximately 235 yards in return.
Success running the football was a goal of the Buckeyes entering this game, especially having Henderson at full strength unlike the past couple of years. If Ohio State wishes to break their streak of losses next season, they need to find a way to run the ball against Michigan.
2. Offensive Line Issues Continue to Linger
Ohio State quarterback Kyle McCord threw two interceptions against Michigan, and looked uncomfortable throughout Saturday's game. McCord's shaky performance and the Buckeyes' struggles running the football have one thing in common: the offensive line.
The O-line was unable to open holes for Henderson and prevent the Wolverines rushers from boxing McCord into tough situations. Not all of the blame for these performances from McCord and the ground attack should go to the Ohio State offensive line, but they definitely deserve some of the responsibility.
3. Ohio State Defense Needs Improvement in Big Games
Michigan was the home team in Saturday's contest, and it showed all game long. The Wolverines offense played fast and aggressive all game long, including converting all three of their fourth-down plays in the first half.
In the second half, Michigan scored on each of their three possessions with two field goals and a touchdown from running back Blake Corum.
Saturday will not be the last big game in which the Buckeyes play (this season and beyond). It would behoove the defense to work on eliminating these plays before the next one.
