Wisconsin looked like a different team. (it's clear that the buckeyes don't play well from behind.) One thing different is that I think Wisconsin finally got their special teams shored up. I think both Arizona State and Michigan State ran kicks back on them.
If our tackles can neutralize JJ Watt, I think there will be some opportunity in the passing game. I just hope Ricky comes out slinging it so that we can get a lead and run later....
ASU had two big kickoff returns, one that scored and one that was stopped at the 1 yard line. They gave up a punt return against MSU.
My number one concern, is their run game, and more specifically, the depth and talent at their RB position. Last two years, we've either not had to play against Clay, or have taken out Clay before the half (last year). They weren't able to run much after, and once we took the lead, we forced them to throw against our very good pass defense. Tolzien threw picks and that was that. This year, we'll need to neutralize their run game early on, and force Tolzien into making bad throws. If we destabilize that offense, we
should be good to go.
On offense, I think we need to work on picking up the pressure and giving Stanzi time to make smart decisions.
Finally, we just can't fall behind like we did against Arizona, or like tOSU did against Wisky last week. Can't give up big plays, and we need to be able to grind it out on offense. Because you know Wisconsin is going to try and do the same to us.
This will be a tough couple weeks for the Hawkeyes. I just hope the team is going to be ready, and most importantly, stay healthy.
