Matchups to Watch
While it’s easy to say the biggest matchup in this game is Baker Mayfield vs. J.T. Barrett, they’re not going to be on the field at the same time. With Ohio State’s biggest strength on defense coming in the pass rush, and their biggest strength on offense coming out of the backfield, this will be a battle in the trenches. The best matchups to look out for in this game will involve guards, tackles and defensive ends.
OSU’s Defensive Line vs. OU’s Offensive Line
It doesn’t feel right singling out one person on Ohio State’s defensive line. Hubbard, Dre’Mont Jones and Tyquan Lewis are all people that will likely be playing on Sundays pretty soon, and by the time they’re gone, they’ll have Nick Bosa and Chase Young fill in right away.
But not to be overlooked is Oklahoma’s offensive line. Orlando Brown, Ben Powers, Erick Wren, Dru Samia and Bobby Evans are all returning players from last year, and are a big reason behind Mayfield’s success. They’re not going to make the job easy on Ohio State’s pass rushers, and if Mayfield can escape the pressure by moving out of the pocket comfortably, then OU will win this matchup.
Parris Campbell vs. OU Cornerbacks
The best way Ohio State can ensure victory in the rematch is by repeating their strategy from last year. Attack Oklahoma’s weak pass defense and spread the ball as often as they can. Parris Campbell only had six catches against Indiana, but his 74-yard touchdown changed the course of the game. If he can exploit Oklahoma’s cornerbacks, and utilize his explosiveness, we could be looking at another Noah Brown game.
Of course, he’s not the only pass-catcher Barrett should look toward. Marcus Baugh and Johnnie Dixon should see an equal amount of targets and keep the Sooners’ defense honest. The more reliable his weapons can be, the more comfortable Barrett will play.