In spite of themselves, the Buckeyes are still undefeated on the young season. Coach Urban Meyer narrowed the problems to “offense, defense and special teams,” expressed his disappointment and said his players have to get dramatically better before opening Big Ten play at No. 21 Michigan State on Saturday.
Despite the lackluster efforts on all three phases, Ohio State still beat UAB 29-15. The offense has been too reliant on Braxton Miller, who came leading the Big Ten in rushing. He ran for two more scores today, but the team itself struggled versus a unit known to give up 44 points per game.
Johnathan Hankins, junior defensive lineman
“As a team, we want to keep it ‘on’ and keep our foot on the pedal and just go, but sometimes stuff doesn’t go our way.”
On entering Big Ten play
“Right now, this is not a good effort. We were talking in the locker room and we need to get prepared for Michigan State and that’s where our focus is right now.”
Braxton Miller, sophomore quarterback
On the cause of the team’s lethargic first quarters
“We’re not coming out with enough energy — somebody’s got to get our energy to rise. Our mindset isn’t where it needs to be at the start of the game.”
On whether he is confident heading into Michigan State with the current offensive struggles
“Absolutely. We’re going to figure it out. We have a whole week of practice to improve and strive for our best.”