The last time these two teams met on the gridiron, it was for all the marbles. This time it will be for conference bragging rights. Ohio State and Florida head into this game knowing that a win could be a huge momentum boost going into the off-season, which can pay huge dividends next year.
For the Buckeyes, this will be the last time we see them in a bowl until 2014 due to NCAA violations. The scarlet and gray had an uncharacteristically mediocre season losing six games. A big part of this is due to lack of leadership. This year’s senior class has been less than stellar in leading for the most part a young team. Additionally, the Silver Bullets haven’t done much to live up to their moniker, as they fell apart late in games and gave up huge plays all season.
There were bright spots. Despite their struggles, the Buckeyes were able to bounce back and play well as evidenced in the first half in Lincoln. We know they have great potential as they beat Wisconsin. Clearly, Ohio State possess talent. It is how they utilize their talent that will determine whether they can win their final game.
The environment will not be a friendly one.
The Buckeyes must travel to SEC country to play Florida in their backyard. The Gators in many ways mirrored the Buckeyes this season in that they share the same record, had trouble establishing a passing game and both defenses gave up on average 20 points a game. Florida is trying to rebuild a program that won two national championships in three seasons, and a win over a marquee program would be a great way to get them back onto that track.
For Ohio State, the game comes down to whether they can do the little things well.
For starters, will they come out ready to play? Too often, they came out asleep and it cost them several games, including crucial ones down the stretch. They must come out energized or else the environment and the Gators may be too much.
Furthermore, they need to come out with a balanced, unpredictable offensive game plan. In the first halves against Michigan and Nebraska, they were able to tip the scales in their favor by employing a game plan that kept opponents’ defenses on their toes. This took the crowd out of it early and made it easy for the Buckeyes to establish pace in tough environments. They must repeat the same blueprint and this time maintain it throughout the game, not just for a half.
Lastly, they must execute the fundamentals. This means maintaining gap responsibilities on defense, form tackling, communicating in the secondary and on the offensive line and not committing stupid penalties. Frequently this season Ohio State’s worst enemy has been themselves.
Ultimately, the Buckeyes have the talent to beat Florida. If they play smart football, they will. If they fall back into their tendencies, this will be a fitting end to a crappy season.
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