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Saturday, Nov. 23
The Indiana Daily Student

sports

Game Day Predictions

IU Offense: The Hoosiers have made huge strides in the passing game in recent weeks, and the running game can't be far behind. The Hoosiers will pass early and often to test the young Buckeye secondary, and expect a huge day from Courtney Roby who should easily shred the soft zone defense.

IU Defense: Believe it or not, the IU defense matches up very well with the Buckeye offense. OSU is turnover prone, and IU has one of the better turnover margins in the country, so I believe we'll see a few picks and at least one fumble.

IU Special Teams: Lance Bennett is ranked among the top kickoff returners in the country and is always a threat to break one, especially against the Buckeyes' lackluster special teams coverage. Expect the Hoosiers to get good field position all day long.

Intangibles: The Buckeyes had never lost three in a row under Tressel's guidance until last weekend, so at this point, anything is possible. Combined with the Hoosiers' bye week, it's easy to see why people in Columbus are actually scared of IU for once.\nOSU Offense: If I had to use one word to describe the Buckeye offense, it would be "atrocious." Expect the Buckeyes to throw out a lot of five-receiver sets to compensate for the lack of a running game; however, the Buckeyes only have two receivers who can catch the ball consistently.

OSU Defense: After watching the Buckeyes' performance last weekend against Iowa, it's clear the defense is playing scared and afraid to make a mistake. I expect the Buckeyes to use a lot of zone, something the Hoosiers will be able to take advantage of.

OSU Special Teams: Normally a Jim Tressel trademark, the special teams in Columbus are not so special anymore. Kicker Mike Nugent, the \nAll-everything place kicker, shanked a kick in overtime against Northwestern, though he still is one of the best.

Predicted Score: OSU still has problems on offense and an inexperienced defense that boasts a mere two seniors. IU will be able to capitalize early and often, giving the Hoosiers a rare victory in Ohio Stadium. IU-31 OSU-17

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