COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ross–Ade Stadium in West Lafayette, Indiana has been a challenging venue for Ohio State in the past, with the Buckeyes suffering five losses during their nine visits in the 2000s. However, as they prepare to face Purdue this Saturday at 1 p.m. on the Big Ten Network, the top-ranked Buckeyes are set as hefty favorites, opening as 28.5-point victors according to DraftKings.
With anticipation building for the matchup, Buckeye Talk Subtext subscribers have posed a variety of questions regarding the game. OSU beat reporter Stefan Krajisnik has provided insight into key player performances and potential records.
One focal point is wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who has enjoyed a stellar beginning to his career. With 24 touchdown catches already, Smith is on track to excel further, particularly as he is guaranteed at least one more season of college football before contemplating the NFL. He is notably positioned to break various receiving records, including Chris Olave’s program-high 35 touchdown catches achieved from 2018-21. If Ohio State reaches both the Big Ten title game and progresses to the College Football Playoff National Championship, Smith would have the opportunity to play in at least eight more games this season. To surpass Olave’s record, he would need to average 1.5 touchdown catches per game during this stretch. However, with two of Ohio State’s next three opponents, including Purdue, ranking low in pass defense, he has a legitimate chance to achieve this milestone.
Betting odds for the upcoming contest indicate Ohio State is favored by 30.5 points on DraftKings, providing an exciting landscape for fans and bettors alike as they watch for Smith’s potential explosive performances.
As for the larger picture in the College Football Playoff rankings, released earlier this week, Ohio State faces several contenders seeking to challenge their championship aspirations. Teams like No. 2 Indiana, No. 3 Texas A&M, and No. 4 Alabama are on the radar, but even outside the top five, schools like Notre Dame and Texas build a case for themselves. Both teams, with previous strong performances, could be dark horses aiming for a playoff run.
Moreover, the question of future leadership at Ohio State is raised, particularly regarding who will don the esteemed Block O jersey next year. Current candidates include Smith and quarterback Julian Sayin, who are both key players this season, alongside potential standouts like receiver Brandon Inniss and left tackle Austin Siereveld, who could also rise as leaders in the following season.
As the Buckeyes gear up for their matchup against Purdue, the excitement surrounding records, betting, and playoff prospects adds layers of intrigue to the upcoming game, demonstrating both the team’s resilience and their aspirations for the season.