Keys to the Game: Ohio State @ Purdue

This week the Buckeyes take their show on the road to West Lafayette, IN to face the 1-4 Purdue Boilermakers.

Get Offensive

Last week, defense and special teams were responsible for 2 of the Buckeyes' touchdowns, with the offense struggling and doing little to show improvement. This all starts with the quarterback, Terelle Pryor. If Pryor cannot establish a competent passing game, then the defense will always play the run and force him to complete a pass. OSU needs to develop confidence in their young QB before they get to the meat of their schedule in November. 

Trick Plays

If a conventional game plan isn't working for Pryor, then Coach Tressel should throw in some trick plays and get away from his typical conservative game plan. Utilizing Pryor's unique talents is the key to making the offense fire on all cylinders.

Tough D

The Bucks' defense has been nothing short of outstanding this year, lead by playmakers Kurt Coleman, Brian Rolle and Chimdi Chekwa. Hopefully the offense can sustain some drives and give this unit some more time off. Time of possession was heavily in Wisconsin's favor last week until OSU got the ball late and was able to run the clock. 

Look for me on TV!

I will actually be making the trip to Purdue with 49 other members of Block "O," Ohio State's official student fan group. This will be the 8th college football stadium I have visited.

Buckeye out.