Kirby Smart solved Josh Heupel. In four games of Heupel’s Tennessee against Smart’s Georgia, the Volunteers have averaged 14.25 points. In 43 other games against FBS foes, the Vols have averaged 39.4 points. How has Georgia done that? By having a defensive line that can create pressure on its own while trusting its defensive backs in single coverage. That gives the Bulldogs enough flexibility to wreck the rather one-dimensional passing offense. The offense as a whole is not one-dimensional, but the passing attack is. And Ohio State very much has that kind of defense this season, particularly against passing attacks. Tough break, Tennessee.
Kirby Smart solved Josh Heupel. In four games of Heupel’s Tennessee against Smart’s Georgia, the Volunteers have averaged 14.25 points. In 43 other games against FBS foes, the Vols have averaged 39.4 points. How has Georgia done that? By having a defensive line that can create pressure on its own while trusting its defensive backs in single coverage. That gives the Bulldogs enough flexibility to wreck the rather one-dimensional passing offense. The offense as a whole is not one-dimensional, but the passing attack is. And Ohio State very much has that kind of defense this season, particularly against passing attacks. Tough break, Tennessee.
I expect this stout Buckeyes defense that leads the nation in scoring defense and total defense to keep freshman quarterback Nico Iamaleava at bay, and once you factor in Ohio State's ongoing offensive line issues, scoring could be particularly hard to come by. I have my eyes on the Under 47.5.