Ohio State has had two weeks to think about that loss to USC, and they will be ready to take it out on Minnesota. Back the Buckeyes as big home favorites vs the Gophers.
This is a big step up in class for the Golden Gophers who have played twice against the MAC and faced teams from the Big Sky and Sun Belt Conferences. Minnesota's offense has looked good but they have taken advantage of a whopping +11 turnover margin.
After winning just a single game last year they have started the season 4-0. But that success looks to be short lived as they are without last year's leading rusher and they have battled major injuries along the offensive line. QB Adam Weber is a talent but we can't see him having any time to throw against this Ohio State front seven.
Beanie Wells is expected back for Ohio State this week and his addition should be a major plus for this offense. Tyrelle Pryor opened up the Buckeye passing game last week and he should have big success against this weak Minnesota secondary. The Gophers finished last year 115th in the nation against the pass and they enter this game last in the Big Ten this season despite playing weak competition.
Ohio State has cashed four of the last five meetings in this series and they have won their last three conference openers by an average of 33 points per game. After three poor offensive showings we expect the dual threat offense of Ohio State to come to life against a much weaker defensive squad.
Free Pick: Ohio St. -18