Colorado vs. Ohio State Week 4: 4 Things to Watch as Pac-12 Meets Big Ten

Coming off a loss in Miami, the Ohio State Buckeyes will play the Colorado Buffaloes at home in a Pac-12 versus Big Ten showdown.

In order to get back into the win column, the Buckeyes must play better in several areas on Saturday. Here are four things to watch that will contribute to Ohio State coming out on top at home against the Buffaloes. 

QB Braxton Miller Starting

After an abysmal showing in the passing game last Saturday, Ohio State head coach Luke Fickell came to his senses and announced Miller as his starter for Week 4.

Last week, Joe Bauserman started against Miami and completed just 2 of 14 passes for a total of 13 yards. Such a bad passing performance usually leads to a loss for that quarterback's team, and that was definitely the case for the Buckeyes.

Miller didn't fare much better, but he only had the opportunity to throw four passes in Miami. He was in and out of the game and never had a chance to build any momentum.

Miller is the quarterback of the future for the Buckeyes, and he needs to be given free rein with the offense despite any rookie mistakes he may commit.

Tackling

Although there were many other reasons for the Buckeye's loss against Miami, poor tackling was definitely a factor.

The team missed tackles throughout the game. The Hurricanes players broke plenty of attempted arm tackles.

The Ohio State coaching staff made it clear that the team would focus on improved tackling in practice this week.

They need to wrap up the Buffaloes on Saturday if they want to ensure a win.

RB Jordan Hall

Jordan Hall was one of the few bright spots for the Buckeyes in their game versus Miami. Hall, returning from a two-game suspension, rushed 14 times for 87 yards and a 6.2 yard average.

He showed great burst through the hole and bounced off a lot of initial hits. Hall will probably share the rushing load with Carlos Hyde, but if he keeps showing he can be a playmaker on offense, his playing time should increase.

Hall will be a huge factor in the game against Colorado because of his speed and elusiveness. It would not be surprising to see him in the end zone once or twice on Saturday.

Aggressiveness

The Buckeyes need to come out aggressive against the Buffaloes on Saturday. They should feel angry after that loss in Miami, and they should channel that anger into the Colorado game.

Ohio State should be energized playing in front of their home crowd, and they need to get off to a fast start in the game.

If the Buckeyes look sluggish or unfocused at the start of the game and allow Colorado to score quickly, that is not a good sign for head coach Luke Fickell or the fans.