On a day when the old guard mostly took a back seat, it was a sophomore starter who lit the lamp over and over again. Ed Shean showed his mettle in a real game after dominating in fall, scoring 5 goals and dishing out an assist to pace all Buckeyes in scoring.
Shean went 5-7 shooting the ball, which will definitely get it done, and stepped up at a time where Ohio State's offense is still in limbo. Dillon Magee, a vaunted freshman, also managed 2 goals and an assist today, really making a name for himself as a dodger. With Ari Allen MIA, that will be helpful.
Really, the offense as a whole was stellar. They maintained their identity of being an invert team while adding a wrinkle or two that's brand new. As a result, shooting percentages were off the charts.
Ohio State's offense has really been tweaked well by OC Rick Lewis, aided for the most part by Jack Myers being the best offensive threat in the Big Ten currently. Still, it really is a replicable offense, no matter who is behind the net. Lots to be excited for in the coming years.
Defensively, Ohio State dominated the Vikings from the opening whistle until the 3rd quarter ended. With the backups came more Cleveland State success, but it's clear to see that OSU will be a problem this season.
The big story defensively was the work of LSM Justin Sherrer, who had 4 groundballs and 2 caused turnovers, which is more production than we're used to seeing out of that position. If that keeps up, then things are really going to come together for Ohio State.
In goal, Skylar Wahlund had a good, not great, day. With 6 saves and 6 goals allowed, Wahlund hit 50% as a save percentage, and kept Cleveland State from making the game very interesting. Oran Gelinas came in for relief and, well, it's apparent why Caleb Fyock was a priority for the staff at this position. If Skylar Wahlund goes down, the Buckeyes are in trouble.
At the faceoff, Ohio State went to the backups early, saving Drew Blanchard for later as he went 6-8. Sophomore Matt Fritz was an even 8-16, so it's even scarier for opponents with a rested FOGO who is really on top of things this year. Lots to like in 2023.
Special teams was the only real black mark today, as Ohio State only converted one of their three opportunities. This is a big downturn from last year, and it shows how much they miss Jackson Reid on the Man Up. Still, if the half field offense is going to be this good, Man Up will take care of itself.
All in all, an overwhelming win with the score flattering Cleveland State far too much. If Colby Smith or Ari Allen come back this season, it is going to be hard to pick against the Buckeyes reaching championship weekend.
I won't start the hype train too early, but this squad is easily the best we have seen since 2017 and, dare I say it, might even be better. If I am right, then buckle up, Buckeye fans.
We got a fun ride ahead of us.
Luckily, we will find out soon what we're in for as Ohio State takes on UNC next week. Should be a barnburner.
Go Bucks!
