Ohio State Football 2012: Analysis of Game 1 vs. Miami of Ohio

Week 1 of OSU football is in the record books, and the result was a 56-10 victory over Miami (OH). Although it seemed like the Urban Meyer hype was suddenly extinguished, he and his coaching staff quickly regained the excitement of the fans in the area, as well as nationwide.

The first few series of the game were quite slow for both teams. Then, Ohio State gave Miami (OH) a ray of hope when QB Zac Dysert completed a 58-yard pass to Dawan Scott, placing them in the red zone.

Although OSU would hold them to only three points, the potential of being down 10 points in the first quarter was high due to a missed field goal from freshman kicker Kaleb Patterson, and a pass dropped in the end zone. At the end of the first quarter, many were wondering when the Buckeyes would begin to kick it into first gear.

Then, the rest of the game happened.

A hurry-up offense spawned confusion for the Redhawks defense, allowing a four-play, 83-yard touchdown run to start the momentum for the Buckeyes that would run the course of the game. Although Miami managed to construct a 73-yard touchdown drive, Ohio State continued to rack up the offensive numbers, scoring a total of 56 points in the season opener.

Braxton Miller showed that his versatility was much less frantic than last year, as he made quality decisions concerning when to throw the ball away and when to gamble for extra yardage. He was the leading passer and rusher, with 207 and 161 yards, respectively.

Other highlights of the game were the impeccable catch from WR Devin Smith, and the running games from Carlos Hyde, Zack Boren and Bri'onte Dunn that led to rushing touchdowns.

There was much confidence gained for the Ohio State Buckeyes after this showing. Although the pass defense could have been a bit more solid, CB Travis Howard pulled in two interceptions to partially atone the weakness of the first-half yard allowance.

Overall, the team received a grade of a B-.

With the University of Central Florida arriving at The Shoe next Saturday, one would hope that the steam from this game would only gain more confidence for the players and lead to another marginal victory. These victories should increase tenacity for the potential threat games. The first one will be traveling to Michigan State to face the Spartans on September 29.

What are your thoughts about game one? Comment civilly below.

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