Well, it’s Wednesday which means it must be time to preview the next Buckeye challenge. This weeks challenger? The Indiana University Hoosiers. While Indiana has been something of a door mat for say, oh, the last 50 or 60 years there is some sign of improvement from the boys in crimson and cream. They’re on a 2 game Big 10 winning streak having comeback in both games to beat Illinois on the road and upset then #15 ranked Iowa at home last week improving to 4-3 on the year.

The Hoosier defense is improving, but still woeful giving up an average of 29 points/game, 172 yards/game rushing, and 216 yards/game passing. The Hoosier offense is starting to click a bit with redshirt freshman, dual-threat QB Kellen Lewis getting into a groove, the reemergence of 6’7″ tall James Hardy at wide receiver, and speedster Marcus Thigpen at tailback/kick returner. The offensive line won’t scare anyone and is bound to have a long day at the ‘Shoe.

What’s going to happen: OSU will start a little slow, Hardy will create mismatches against the Buckeye corners, but the Bucks will put this one out of reach by halftime. Then Tressel & Co. will start “working on things” to help the team improve. OSU is a 31 point favorite, I don’t think they cover the spread in this game. Final score prediction, 45-17. Note: ESPN has decided to use this game is leverage. Consequently, unless you get a subscription to the channel ESPNU, you can’t see the game. That includes local broadcast in Columbus. My advice, listen and follow the game online. Don’t give them the leverage.

Ohio State’s 2006 record: 7-0 Next up: Indiana 10/21
Tune: Mack the Knife by Bobby Darin
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