Chief Editor
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Maryland looks to be for real, they have an elite quarterback and an improving defense. This point spread looks to be way too big in this game. Especially with Ohio State struggling on offense. The Buckeyes defense and skill position players look elite, but the quarterback play has been far from unspectacular.
Ohio State was successful against Notre Dame’s powerful lines.
Maryland may be playing well in the trenches, but Ohio State held strong against Notre Dame’s run game when needed in a thrilling 17-14 victory.
Irish quarterback Sam Hartman has played like a Heisman candidate this year; even with some big plays, he was held to 175 yards; thus, Ohio State will likely do just fine against Taulia Tagovailoa.
Ohio State didn’t turn the ball over against Notre Dame – which is crucial against Maryland as turnovers and penalties can be crippling – while penalties haven’t been an issue, suggesting they won’t make big mistakes against Maryland, to win the Terps will need some Buckeye mistakes..
Now they know they have one.
No one is suggesting Kyle McCord is CJ Stroud 2.0 or anything like that, and he must become more consistent, but he came through with tremendous drive in South Bend to lead his O to victory and restore some confidence – along with all its NFL talent surrounding him – for what had been sorely neglected during its first few weeks of competition.
This team has more physicality than many people may expect.
With a sturdy offensive line and powerful running game, Maryland has easily won their first two Big Ten season games of 2023, beating Michigan State and Indiana, with the ground game helping relieve pressure off an efficient and accurate passing attack.
Defensive tactics have proven more ferocious.
Defense has long been Maryland’s bread and butter, as their defensive players yield passing yards while being bendy at times, yet compensate with incredible pressure up front and frequent takeaways (they forced 12 turnovers in just four games; currently No.2 nationally in turnover margin).
The Buckeyes should win, but a spread of =19.5 is ridiculous. Maryland is a good team and will cover this spread. Ohio State 30 Maryland 20.
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