Nebraska Heads to Columbus to Face Ohio State in Big Ten College Football in Week 9
As the crisp autumn air settles in, college football fans are gearing up for an exciting matchup this Saturday, October 26, 2024. The Nebraska Cornhuskers are set to clash with the Ohio State Buckeyes in a pivotal Big Ten showdown. With the Buckeyes coming off a bye week and Nebraska looking to bounce back from a tough loss, this game promises to be a thrilling contest.
Current Standings and Context
The Buckeyes enter this game with a 2-1 record in conference play, while the Cornhuskers sit at 2-2. Ohio State’s recent bye week has given them extra time to prepare, while Nebraska’s bye was two weeks ago. This matchup is crucial for both teams as they look to solidify their positions in the conference standings.
Odds and Betting Lines
According to BetMGM Sportsbook, Ohio State is heavily favored, with the odds set at 25.5 points. The over/under for the game is set at 50.5 points, indicating expectations for a high-scoring affair. The game will be broadcast on FOX, with kickoff scheduled for noon EDT.
Nebraska’s Recent Struggles
Nebraska’s recent performance has raised concerns, particularly following their disheartening 56-7 loss to Indiana. The Cornhuskers’ offense struggled mightily, with freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola throwing three interceptions and failing to establish a rhythm. The Indiana defense exploited weaknesses in Nebraska’s passing attack, leaving many to wonder if other teams will follow suit.
The Cornhuskers have not won against a ranked opponent since 2016, and their road struggles against top 25 teams are well-documented. With a pass efficiency rating of just 90.0 since Week 6, Raiola faces a significant challenge in Columbus. He must avoid early mistakes to give Nebraska a fighting chance against a formidable Ohio State defense.
Ohio State’s Offensive Firepower
On the other side of the field, the Ohio State Buckeyes are eager to make a statement after their recent loss to Oregon. Averaging an impressive 43.5 points per game, Ohio State boasts a balanced offensive attack, with 31.7 passing attempts and 35.2 rushing attempts per game. Quarterback Will Howard, who has shown poise and accuracy, will look to exploit Nebraska’s defensive vulnerabilities.
The Buckeyes’ offensive line has been solid, providing Howard with the protection he needs to make plays downfield. With a potent mix of speed and skill at the skill positions, Ohio State is poised to put up significant numbers against a Cornhuskers defense that has shown cracks in recent outings.
Key Matchup: Nebraska’s Defense vs. Ohio State’s Offense
One of the most critical aspects of this game will be how Nebraska’s defense responds to Ohio State’s offensive onslaught. The Cornhuskers must find a way to contain the Buckeyes’ explosive playmakers while also applying pressure on Howard. If Nebraska can force turnovers and disrupt Ohio State’s rhythm, they may have a chance to keep the game competitive.
Conversely, Ohio State will likely look to capitalize on Nebraska’s weaknesses, employing blitzing strategies similar to those used by Indiana. The Buckeyes’ ability to establish the run early will be crucial in setting up their passing game and keeping the Cornhuskers’ defense on their heels.
First Half Spread Insights
The first-half spread is set at 14.5 points, which reflects expectations that Ohio State will build an early lead. Bettors are leaning towards Ohio State, with many expecting them to carry a two-score advantage into halftime. With the Buckeyes’ offensive capabilities, this prediction seems reasonable.
Historical Context
Historically, Ohio State has dominated this matchup, winning 10 of the last 11 contests against Nebraska. The last four meetings have seen Ohio State consistently outperform the Cornhuskers, with the most recent game in 2021 being the closest at 26-17. However, Nebraska’s only victory came back in 2011, highlighting the uphill battle they face in Columbus.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions for Saturday’s game are expected to be favorable, with mostly sunny skies and temperatures around 60 degrees. A slight breeze should not significantly impact either team’s performance, allowing both squads to execute their game plans effectively.
As the Cornhuskers prepare to face the Buckeyes, all eyes will be on how they respond to adversity and whether they can rise to the occasion against one of the top teams in the nation. With the stakes high and the atmosphere electric, this matchup promises to be a highlight of the college football season.