Ohio State Set to Face Marshall After Bye Week, Defense Poised for Another Dominant Performance
The Ohio State Buckeyes return to action this Saturday as they wrap up nonconference play against the Marshall Thundering Herd. Coming off their first of two bye weeks, the Buckeyes look to extend their unbeaten streak and continue building momentum, particularly on defense, after a commanding performance against Western Michigan that saw them hold the Broncos to under 100 total yards.
Ohio State’s defense has been stellar, securing the second shutout of the Ryan Day era in their last game. Despite this, the Buckeyes have yet to face a true test, as their opponents so far have struggled to match their talent level. Marshall, led by fourth-year head coach Charles Huff, will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2023 season where they missed bowl eligibility for the first time in seven years, finishing 6-7.
While an upset is highly unlikely, Marshall will aim to pose new challenges for Ohio State. The Thundering Herd brings a few standout players, including quarterback Stone Earle, who could test the Buckeyes’ disciplined defense with his dual-threat capabilities. Earle, in his first season with Marshall, has completed 44.2% of his passes for 228 yards and three touchdowns, while also rushing for 86 yards. He’ll need to be at his best to avoid falling victim to Ohio State’s aggressive defensive line, which forced 10 three-and-outs in its last game.
Marshall’s run game will also be a focus, with A.J. Turner emerging as a key offensive weapon. Turner has rushed for 222 yards and a touchdown on just 14 carries in two games, but he’ll be up against a Buckeyes defense that has only allowed one 20-plus yard run this season.
On the defensive side, Marshall’s pass rusher Mike Green has been a bright spot, recording 3.5 sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss in just two games. However, Ohio State’s offensive line, which is expected to be fully intact, will aim to keep quarterback Will Howard protected.
Ohio State’s defensive backs may finally get more action this week, as Marshall’s top receiving threat, Christian Fitzpatrick, looks to make an impact. The Michigan State transfer has already recorded 170 receiving yards and two touchdowns this season.
Though the Buckeyes are heavy favorites, this game provides another opportunity for the team to fine-tune its performance ahead of Big Ten play.
Kickoff is set for Saturday at Ohio Stadium.
