Top-ranked Ohio State returns home Saturday aiming to keep its perfect season intact when it hosts Rutgers.
The Buckeyes (10-0) enter with the nation’s top defense and a rhythm on offense that has powered them to four straight wins by at least 28 points. This is the eleventh series game with OSU undefeated since 2014.
Ohio State leads the FBS in total defense (212.6 yards per game) and scoring defense (7.5 points), while ranking No. 2 against both the pass and the run. That unit will be tasked with containing a Rutgers (5-5) that averages 420.5 yards per game behind quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis and 1,000-yard rusher Antwan Raymond.
The Scarlet Knights rank just 114th nationally in red-zone efficiency, scoring on 77.6% of trips, and now face an Ohio State defense that ranks first in red-zone success rate allowed (57.9%).
The Buckeyes continue to lean on freshman quarterback Julian Sayin, who enters with 2,675 yards, 25 touchdowns and an 80.1% completion rate. But depth at receiver remains a concern.
Coach Ryan Day said Tuesday that the availability of standouts Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate will be determined later in the week. “We don’t discuss specifics on injuries… but they’re in great spirits,” Day said.
Ohio State ranks second nationally in third-down conversions (56.1%) and sixth in time of possession (33:26), advantages that could be key against a Rutgers defense giving up 425.5 yards per game and allowing opponents to convert 42% on third down.
Rutgers makes the trip to Columbus on Saturday (Noon ET, FOX).
More college football news:
- Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
- Ole Miss reportedly gives Lane Kiffin an ultimatum as family visits Florida and LSU
- Virginia Tech reportedly funding roster near top of ACC for James Franklin
- Bill Belichick goes viral for awkward handshake after Wake Forest loss
- Texas state trooper reportedly relieved of duties after player exchange at Texas A&M