The collaboration between Ryan Day and Chip Kelly at Ohio State is proving to be highly successful. Day persuaded his former college coach to step down from his role as head of the UCLA program to become the Buckeyes’ offensive coordinator. Consequently, Ohio State has accumulated a remarkable 108 points in their first two games, while their defense has allowed just six points in the same timeframe.
The Buckeyes appear to be in excellent form, although their early competition has not been particularly formidable. This pattern is set to continue as they prepare to face Marshall, who comes into the matchup with a 1-1 record. Marshall kicked off their season with a strong 45-3 victory over Stony Brook but followed it up with a disappointing 31-14 defeat against Virginia Tech.
This match will be the third encounter between the two schools; their last meeting took place in 2010 when Ohio State triumphed 45-7. Their earlier matchup in 2004 was much more competitive, with Ohio State narrowly winning 27-24.
Viewing details for Ohio State vs. Marshall are as follows:
Date: Saturday, September 21
Time: 12 p.m. ET
Location: Ohio Stadium, Columbus, Ohio
TV: Fox
Live stream: fubo (trial available)
Ohio State’s success against unranked teams is noteworthy, as they have won 41 consecutive games against such opponents. Their last defeat to an unranked team occurred during the 2018 season when they fell to Purdue 49-20. Since Ryan Day took over as head coach, they have not lost to an unranked opponent.
Freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has been making waves, performing exceptionally well in his debut season. He has caught 11 passes for 211 yards and three touchdowns, becoming the first true freshman wide receiver to surpass 200 receiving yards in their initial two games. Currently, he is tied for fifth place with notable players Chris Olave and Marvin Harrison Jr. for the most receiving touchdowns by a freshman.
Not to be underestimated, Marshall has previously upset a ranked opponent, pulling off a surprising 26-21 victory against No. 8 Notre Dame during the 2022 season. However, Ohio State has been dominant against unranked teams, making this matchup seem likely to be another one-sided contest.
As for predictions, while anything can happen in college football, the expectation is that Ohio State will continue their dominant streak. The Buckeyes have yet to allow a touchdown this season and have maintained their scoring prowess regardless of any player substitutions. With a nonconference schedule that has served as a preparatory phase, another blowout victory seems probable. Prediction: Ohio State -40.5.