If someone tells me that Garrett Wolfe is suiting up for the Longhorns, then I'll get worried. Don't go telling me that they're run plays "like" NIU's -- that's like saying that you'll run plays "like" what OSU ran to Ted Ginn against ND. If you don't have Ginn, it's not quite the same play, now is it?
Young defenders, many of them backups, got caught out by an awfully good football player. That happens, especially in a blowout, where players of any age can lose their focus. I would honestly be far more worried about a young QB who is going to find his sense of self-confidence tested early and often than I would about this defense. They'll play very well. Bank on it.
What you SHOULD be seeing on your tape is solid DL play, with the ends getting pressure quickly on the QB during passing downs, and the DTs taking away the inside gaps on running plays. All that NIU was able to find effective were runs outside the tackles, and various swing and screen passes, again on the outside. This is not the place you want to live every single down if you're trying to move the ball effectively for four quarters.
Now, if our defense were being beaten vertically, giving up receptions inside to the slot receiver or tight end, or giving up a high YPC on rushes between the tackles, there'd be cause for concern. Yes, guys took some bad angles in space and tackled poorly against a very elusive player. Just keep in mind that #7 can also make look otherwise talented players look pretty stupid at times. Wolfe has those kinds of skills.
The battle in this game is on the other side of the ball. OSU's offense versus the Texas D -- strength on strength. Our ability to protect the ball and to protect Troy Smith will be paramount. The Texas DL is the core of their team, and it's awfully good. Probably the best in the nation. Our OL is right up there, and that's the battle to watch. Tressel's play calling will be on cetner stage, and I'm hoping to see him play his weapons like a virtuoso conductor -- stretching the Texas D, opening running lanes and keeping the threat of an explosive play always on the minds of the defenders.
While the Texas O is good, I believe that it is out offense which will set the tone of the game. Colt McCoy may find himself leading a team that trails, and may find himself leading a team that's just been shocked with a big play or a series of them. A young defense will play emotionally, and those big plays will have them fired up. Those were the times last year when Texas relied on Vince Young's confidence and experience. McCoy may be the real deal, but this is his first major game, and they don't get much bigger than this. I'd much rather go in with our question marks as they are than be trying to break in Schoenhoft, for example.
Fear not. We're going to win this game.
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