Penn State Football: The blueprint for an upset over Ohio State

2 of 6

COLUMBUS, OHIO – OCTOBER 30: Parker Washington #3 of the Penn State Nittany Lions carries the ball against Bryson Shaw #17 of the Ohio State Buckeyes during the first half of their game at Ohio Stadium on October 30, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) /

1. Running Success

Tale of two rushing attacks.

While it doesn’t really come as a surprise, in three out of the four losses, Ohio State lost the rushing contest. A powerful offensive rushing attack achieves so many positive results.

From winning the time of possession and limiting the opposing team’s offensive possibilities, to wearing down the opposition’s defense and imposing your own will, a stout rushing attack is the cornerstone in almost any big game strategic plan.

In ’21, Oregon outrushed Ohio State 269 to 128. Later that same year against Michigan, the discrepancy was even larger, as the Wolverines outpaced the Buckeye’s ground game 297 to 64. In the 2020 National Championship game against Alabama, Ohio State was slightly outgained 157 to 147. Only against Clemson, in 2019, did Ohio State manage to outrush their opponent, 196 to 158, and still lose.

For Penn State to have success, it starts up front with the offensive line and the lightning and thunder attacks of Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen.

Home/Penn State Football