As close as the final score looks, the actual game was anything but. Ohio State outplayed Air Force for nearly three full quarters, pulling starters late in the third and letting the backups get gametime. That included the goalkeeper, which was disastrous.

The Buckeyes, even by game's end, played one of its most efficient games ever. Ohio State shot .472 for the day, which is outrageous over the course of a game. This was led by Alex Marinier, whose perfect shooting performance was marred by a post in the fourth quarter. Still, 7 of 8 shooting will always be good.

The Falcons could not slow down the Buckeyes with their zone, and got absolutely merked when using man. On the defensive side, Air Force was stymied fully by all 7 Buckeye defenders. Fyock was a wall, the poles kept everything in front of them, and even the middies played very well.

It wasn't until subs came in that the wheels fell off. Ohio State could have gone north of 20 if they had wanted. We knew Air Force was bad, but this is the first time it seemed like Ohio State was really good. That impression will be tested next Saturday.

Overall, extremely positive performance from the starters. Defense looked good. Marinier had the game of his life. Liam White looked good with the ball in his stick, even though it was Air Force. Garrett Haas sat out with an injury, and Ed Shean was great in relief.

All in all, it looks like the defense is getting better. Or at least becoming more cohesive. The offense picked apart a poor opponent. The intensity needs to continue for 4 quarters moving forward. In sum, as good a tuneup game as you could want.

Virginia comes to Columbus next weekend, with the Buckeyes getting another game on B1G+. Virginia dropped a shocker to Richmond today, so next week is going to be a rough one early. Buckeyes have to weather the storm and pick their spots.

Go Bucks!