Summary
Ohio State prepares for a crucial matchup against USC, with the game set for tomorrow night at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time. The Buckeyes are expected to start true freshman quarterback Luke Fahey, who has shown promise during practice. Head coach Ryan Day has kept the official announcement under wraps, a tactic he has employed in the past. Analysts suggest that Fahey's performance will be pivotal, especially given the injuries affecting the team. The injury report shows some positive developments, with key players like Austin Cereveld and Kenyatta Jackson returning to health, although Jay Timmons remains questionable.
The discussion also touches on the potential strategies for the game, particularly the use of run-pass options (RPOs) to leverage Fahey's mobility. Analysts expect a more dynamic offensive approach compared to previous games, with an emphasis on quick throws and moving the pocket to protect the young quarterback. The Buckeyes aim to establish a strong running game while taking advantage of USC's defensive vulnerabilities, which have been exposed in prior matchups.
As for USC, concerns linger about the team's morale following a disappointing performance against Wisconsin. Analysts suggest that the Trojans may come out fighting, especially at home, but there are doubts about their commitment to head coach Lincoln Riley. The matchup is critical for both teams, with Ohio State looking to solidify its position in the Big Ten race and USC seeking to regain momentum. The game promises to be a significant test for the Buckeyes, who hope to maintain their winning streak against a wounded but talented opponent.
Show Notes
Ohio State and USC will clash tomorrow night in LA, and the Friday 5ish with JBook and Dave gives predictions and much more. (1:50) - Intro (2:20) - Thoughts on Luke Fahey (11:17) - OSU-USC predictions (14:35) - Best Bets (16:04) - Concerned about RB recruiting? (19:36) - Injury update (22:05) - Dom Kelly/Cam Calhoun (24:33) - Patricia to be aggressive? (26:43) - What will be different about the offense? (26:07) - USC will bring its 'A' game (34:00) - Dave's parting thoughts
More from Bucknuts Morning 5: An Ohio State athletics podcast
Has there ever been a more interesting weekend for the Buckeyes? Maybe. But the trip to face USC is kind of like sailing into uncharted waters. We expect it will be Luke Fahey making his first-ever at quarterback ... on the road ... in an important Big Ten matchup ... against his 'hometown' school that did NOT offer him. So there's that. We also know now that Ohio State is almost fully healthy. Austin Siereveld is expected back. Same with Kenyatta Jackson. Garrick Hodge and Mark Porter are here so you know there's also recruiting chatter to enjoy. We talk about new Class of 2027 offers to a Texas running back committed to North Texas and an Illinois wide receiver committed to the Fighting Illini. Spend 5ish with us this a.m., 'Nutters! (0:00) Intro (3:04) New running back offer to Texan (13:37) Can Buckeyes flip receiver committed to Illinois? (24:44) Our DEEP dive on USC game this weekend (42:06) Get Bucknuts premium access for 60% off
Is there really a close battle at quarterback between Luke Fahey and Tavien St. Clair? Or is that classic "coachspeak" from Ryan Day? Also, what are our vibes on the Ohio State at USC game on Halloween night? Dave Biddle and Matt Baxendell delve into that and much more on the Wednesday 5ish. (1:50) - Intro (2:04) - Coachspeak or close QB battle? (5:01) - How have expectations changed? (7:09) - OSU at USC vibes (11:54) - Buckeyes' defense on the rise (15:51) - Day's first game vs USC (21:36) - What's going on at Oregon? (26:21) - OSU injuries update (34:43) - Dave's parting thoughts
Welcome the show, 'Nutters! Garrick Hodge and Mark Porter return and we open with insight on running back recruiting after Jordan Hall picked Penn State over Ohio State this past weekend. What caused the decision and how does it affect Ohio State going forward? During the bye week, Ohio State's staff was out in force on the recruiting trail. Who did each coach visit and why? We have the details. Then we offer up thoughts on the USC matchup. Do you support the 'wounded animal theory' or the 'here we go again curse'? Spend 5ish with us this a.m., 'Nutters! (0:00) Intro (3:05) Jordan Hall picks Penn State over Ohio State (11:27) Is running back recruiting an issue? (31:15) Staff visits top recruiting targets during off week (45:56) Our vibes on Ohio State’s impending trip to USC (57:02) Get Bucknuts for 60% off
What is our confidence level for freshman quarterback Luke Fahey, who will presumably take the reins for Ohio State on Saturday at USC? Will the Buckeyes capture what will be the final Big Ten Championship Game title? What are early thoughts on the game against the Trojans, who are coming off a 24-7 loss at Wisconsin? Dave Biddle and Dan Rubin delve into that and much more on the Monday 5ish. (2:00) - Intro (3:39) - How much faith in Fahey? (9:33) - USC thoughts (13:20) - Can the defense carry the Buckeyes? (20:21) - Day not pleased with officiating (25:14) - Who are the favorites to win the national title? (26:48) - What we're hearing about injuries (34:05) - Will OSU win the Big Ten championship?
When Ohio State returns to action next Saturday at USC, will we see both Luke Fahey and Tavien St. Clair play when the game is still on the line? Or will it just be Fahey's show? Jonah Booker and Dave Biddle debate that on today's show, plus: OSU's defense under "The Pencil" aka defensive coordinator Matt Patricia sure has turned into a formidable unit. Can they carry the Buckeyes down the stretch if needed? And what will running back recruit Jordan Hall decide when he makes his announcement on Saturday? That and much more is coming your way on the Friday 5ish. (2:00) - Intro/Indiana at Michigan talk (7:50) - Jordan Hall vibes (9:38) - The Great OSU QB Debate (21:09) - The Pencil drawing up a great Buckeye defense (26:22) - USC at Wisconsin Saturday night (30:55) - Best Bets 31:01 - How good is the Maryland job? (38:53) - Dave's parting thoughts