Ohio State Football: 5 overreactions from comeback win vs. Penn State

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STATE COLLEGE, PA – SEPTEMBER 29: KJ Hamler #1 of the Penn State Nittany Lions can’t make the catch against Isaiah Pryor #12 of the Ohio State Buckeyes on September 29, 2018 at Beaver Stadium in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

4. Defense will cost the Buckeyes a game

What is it about 93 yard plays that this team can’t seem to stop? The Buckeyes defense gave up a school record 93-yard touchdown run to TCU in Week 3, which was the longest rushing play allowed by a defense in school history. Then they gave up a 93-yard passing touchdown to KJ Hamler.

We have seen all season long that the defense is prone to giving a big plays, and it is safe to say that if a team with a talented offense can make a few early, it could lead to a Buckeyes loss.

That’s not to say that they didn’t make big plays in key moments as the Nittany Lions struggled converting third downs all night long. The Nittany Lions were just 3-of-17 on third downs on the night. A critical fourth down stop sealed the Buckeyes win and kept their college football playoff hopes alive.

The defense doesn’t have to play outstanding if the offense is clicking but if there is any sign of struggle from the offensive side of the ball, it can be crippling for the defense to give up big plays in close games.

They will look to right the ship next week against a surprising 4-1 Indiana team.

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