Jon "JR" Rhoades 
Marshall gets themselves pumped up before their week two game.
After a week off, No. 3 Ohio State returns to the field, taking on Marshall in what is expected to be another dominant performance by the Buckeyes. With a perfect 2-0 record, Ohio State has already outscored its opponents, Akron and Western Michigan, by a staggering 108-6. However, questions remain about just how battle-tested this Buckeyes squad truly is heading into the heart of the season.
Despite the early dominance, Ohio State dropped from No. 2 to No. 3 in the latest AP poll due to a lack of high-profile matchups compared to other top teams. But the Buckeyes have made the most of their opportunities, using these early games to work on execution and develop their younger players, according to head coach Ryan Day.
“We’re not where we need to be yet,” Day said, acknowledging the team’s potential for growth.
Ohio State’s Offensive Firepower
Key to Ohio State’s strong start has been the dynamic running back tandem of TreVeyon Henderson and transfer Quinshon Judkins. Henderson, a known playmaker, has continued to shine, but it’s Judkins, formerly of Ole Miss, who has been particularly explosive, averaging 7.4 yards per carry. Together, they’ve formed a nightmare duo for opposing defenses, setting the tone for Ohio State’s high-powered offense.
On the receiving front, freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has lived up to his hype. After a shaky first game with a few drops, Smith has since become a force, hauling in 11 receptions for 211 yards and three touchdowns. Day praised Smith’s development, stating, “You can see what a weapon he is for us when he’s out there.” Smith’s combination of speed and physicality has made him a nightmare for defenders, and his recently signed NIL deal with Red Bull seems to have given him wings.
Ohio State has also utilized its depth, with players like freshman quarterback Lincoln Kienholz and tight end Bennett Christian connecting for a 55-yard touchdown in the previous game against Western Michigan. This strategy of integrating younger talent early on has been a hallmark of the Buckeyes’ approach to building depth for their tougher Big Ten matchups down the road.
Marshall’s Challenge
Standing in Ohio State’s way is Marshall, a Sun Belt team that enters the matchup with a 1-1 record. Under the leadership of fourth-year head coach Charles Huff, the Thundering Herd secured a blowout victory over FCS opponent Stony Brook in Week 1 before falling to Virginia Tech in Week 2. Huff, known for developing standout running backs like Saquon Barkley and Miles Sanders during his time at Penn State, has built Marshall into a competitive squad, particularly on the ground.
Marshall’s offense is averaging 200 rushing yards per game, and its defense, led by a stout line, is considered one of the best in the Group of Five conferences. But despite their efforts, Marshall will likely struggle to keep up with Ohio State’s depth and talent across the board.
“Tremendous opportunity on the national stage,” Huff remarked about the game. “Our guys fully understand the size of the challenge.”
Key Matchups to Watch
For Ohio State, defensive dominance has been a focal point of their early success. They have yet to allow an opponent into the red zone. Defensive linemen Tyleik Williams and Ty Hamilton will be key in slowing down Marshall’s running game. Andrew, one of the analysts, highlighted this matchup as one to watch: “If Ohio State shuts down their rushing attack, they’ll be in great shape.”
Meanwhile, the Buckeyes’ offensive line will look to continue their strong performance. The return of All-American guard Donovan Jackson, who missed the first two games due to injury, should bolster the unit, though questions remain about chemistry as he reintegrates into the lineup.
Score Predictions
Despite Marshall’s strengths, no one is doubting Ohio State’s ability to secure a comfortable victory. One analyst predicted a 52-10 Ohio State win, citing the Buckeyes’ overwhelming firepower on both sides of the ball. Another prediction called for a 45-3 victory, noting Marshall’s potential to run the ball effectively early on but doubting their ability to sustain offensive success against a Buckeyes defense that’s been impenetrable so far.
Marshall’s fourth-year coach Charles Huff added a lighter note to the week, humorously offering “all-you-can-eat” biscuits to any Ohio State players who might want to transfer to his program.
Looking Ahead
After this matchup, Ohio State faces a grueling nine-game Big Ten schedule. The tune-up games have given Ryan Day the opportunity to rotate players, fine-tune strategies, and allow young stars like Jeremiah Smith to shine. But as the competition ramps up, Ohio State will need to continue its trajectory if they hope to meet high expectations and compete for a national title.
As for Saturday, fans expect the Buckeyes to stay sharp and dominate once again, setting the stage for the challenges ahead.
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