JimBob
09-27-2008, 07:39 AM
3storylines
By BILL HAISTEN, World sports writer
9/27/2008
Last Modified: 9/27/2008 3:36 AM
A look at three things to watch in today's Troy-OSU contest.
Ground game
On 42 attempts against the Trojan defense last week, Ohio State had a fairly modest total of 170 rushing yards. Through three games, Troy has allowed an average of only 109 rushing yards. The Oklahoma State offense functions best when its ground game is productive, but yards won't come easily against a Trojan team ranked No. 11 nationally in total defense. The Cowboys are second in the nation with a 334-yard rushing average. Getting 234 against Troy would be impressive.
Bryant and Pettigrew
If Cowboy running backs Kendall Hunter, Keith Toston and Beau Johnson can run successfully on Saturday — and success would equate to a consistent 5 yards a pop — then the OSU passing game would benefit immensely. Troy's safeties might be used to a greater extent in run support. That would result in play-action passing opportunities for OSU quarterback Zac Robinson, wide receiver Dez Bryant and tight end Brandon Pettigrew.
Speed adjustment
Troy is faster and more talented than any of Oklahoma State's first three opponents. For a full quarter or so, OSU might be knocked off-balance by Troy's speed. While adjusting to the upgrade in competition, the Cowboys must avoid the first-half mistakes of a year ago at Troy, when their turnovers and execution busts resulted in a 27-10 halftime deficit (and, ultimately, in a 41-23 defeat).
By BILL HAISTEN, World sports writer
9/27/2008
Last Modified: 9/27/2008 3:36 AM
A look at three things to watch in today's Troy-OSU contest.
Ground game
On 42 attempts against the Trojan defense last week, Ohio State had a fairly modest total of 170 rushing yards. Through three games, Troy has allowed an average of only 109 rushing yards. The Oklahoma State offense functions best when its ground game is productive, but yards won't come easily against a Trojan team ranked No. 11 nationally in total defense. The Cowboys are second in the nation with a 334-yard rushing average. Getting 234 against Troy would be impressive.
Bryant and Pettigrew
If Cowboy running backs Kendall Hunter, Keith Toston and Beau Johnson can run successfully on Saturday — and success would equate to a consistent 5 yards a pop — then the OSU passing game would benefit immensely. Troy's safeties might be used to a greater extent in run support. That would result in play-action passing opportunities for OSU quarterback Zac Robinson, wide receiver Dez Bryant and tight end Brandon Pettigrew.
Speed adjustment
Troy is faster and more talented than any of Oklahoma State's first three opponents. For a full quarter or so, OSU might be knocked off-balance by Troy's speed. While adjusting to the upgrade in competition, the Cowboys must avoid the first-half mistakes of a year ago at Troy, when their turnovers and execution busts resulted in a 27-10 halftime deficit (and, ultimately, in a 41-23 defeat).