NEW ORLEANS — Players on Alabama's offensive line and Ohio State's defensive line both view Thursday's Sugar Bowl as the same thing: an opportunity.
An opportunity for each player to evaluate himself. An opportunity for each unit to evaluate itself. An opportunity to go up against the best.
"I see opportunity and I see a chance for our offensive line to see where we are,” Alabama offensive lineman Arie Kouandijo said Monday. “I look forward to it.”
Added Ohio State defensive tackle Michael Bennett: “I think that’s definitely the deciding factor of the game. I don’t know much about their defense and how our offense chooses to attack them — I would assume that’s going to be a heck of a battle too — but none of that’s going to matter if we don’t stop their running game and force them to throw it.”
It's an intriguing matchup to say the least.
The Buckeyes' front four was thought to be among the best in the country before this season began. But star defensive end Noah Spence never played a down for Ohio State after his suspension from playing in the Big Ten was upheld following a second failed drug test.
Still, behind the play of All-Americans Joey Bosa and Michael Bennett in addition to strong efforts from Adolphus Washington, the Buckeyes have looked like they were supposed to along the defensive line over the last two months of the season.
“They are one of the best defensive lines we’ve played this season,” Alabama offensive lineman Austin Shepard said. “They are well-rounded up front and every position is really good. It’s going to be a challenge, but we are excited for it.”
But Ohio State is looking forward to the challenge, too, because Alabama's offensive line might be the best one the Buckeyes have seen this year.
“They’ve got a really big O-line and they’re extremely athletic," Bennett said. "It’s very important to play with good technique against them, play fast against them and hit them."
“We just know if we get off the ball and we push the line back and make a wall, we’ll be fine," added Bosa.
The play of Ohio State's defensive line impacts all phases of the game. The Buckeyes need to stop the run, but if they can get pressure on Alabama quarterback Blake Sims, it makes containing Amari Cooper a little easier.
All have said it's one of the biggest keys to the game.
“It’s going to be a front seven battle, but it’s going to be a fun battle," Bennett said. "When you go against guys like these, you know the whole world is going to be watching and you want to make your case.”
