Ohio State football: 5 reasons the Buckeyes will embarrass Maryland

2. The Buckeyes can slow down the Terrapins’ rushing attack

One thing that has made the Terrapins great this season is their wealth at the running back position. Their rushing offense ranks 16th in the nation just behind Georgia. A notable reason for this is their heavy use of three solid running backs in a rotation.

Leading this rotation is freshman Anthony McFarland. He is averaging seven yards per carry but has just two touchdowns on the season. The other two backs are senior Ty Johnson and sophomore Tayon Fleet-Davis. They each have 66 carries with Johnson averaging almost eight yards per carry with three total touchdowns and Fleet-Davis averaging 4.3 yards per carry with four total touchdowns.

Each of these running backs are capable of making big plays as McFarland and Johnson each have a touchdown from 60 yards out or further. The Buckeyes do have an answer for these backs though as their front line is solid. The problem will be the back end of the defense if they break free. Fortunately, Ty Johnson is not expected to play on Saturday due to injury.

The Buckeyes must keep the creases at a minimum this game and close the gaps. There have been many times where running backs have broken free after the linebackers over pursued the line of scrimmage. If the Buckeyes can force the Terrapins to draw out their possessions, then they’re bound to get behind the sticks at some point.

The struggles may not have left the Buckeyes just yet but there is still some light to behold with this defense. There is hope that they will build off their breakthrough performance last week and at least use it as a confidence booster moving forward.

The Buckeyes limited big plays and made turnovers happen when necessary. Expect the Buckeyes to keep the Terrapins in check this weekend as they focus on containing the rush.