When the Buckeyes take the field against Clemson on New Years Eve, they'll be facing a tan explosive team teaming with top talent. That may be especially true of its pass rush.
The Tigers are second in the nation with 46 sacks, just one behind the national leader Florida State. That spells trouble for a Buckeye offensive line that's struggled mightily in pass protection at times this season.
Through the rigorous Big Ten slate, though, the slobs feel more than prepared mentally.
"Teams aren’t going to create this new phenomenon blitz that we just can’t block."
“Here’s the good thing," said Billy Price, "as we’ve gone through the Big Ten season, every team does everything."
With games against four teams in the current top-25, three of whom played the Buckeyes after an off week, the Buckeyes have seen just about everything a defense can throw at them – exotic blitzes, odd fronts and yes, even the 46 bear.
“We’ve seen a lot of stuff this season," said Pat Elflein. "So now that we’ve seen a lot of stuff and know how to execute out plays against a lot of defensive fronts it just allows you to work more efficiently and quicker.”
There will be no surprises on New Year's Eve. Now, it comes down to execution.
"You just gotta work on your technique, keep getting better and finish," said Elflein. "We’ve seen a lot of stuff, you just have to win your one-on-one battles.”
The Buckeyes have just under a month of bowl practices to lock down the technical issues that have plagued them all season and show it on the field.
"We're still prepared for the kitchen sink and more," said Billy Price. "Teams aren’t going to create this new phenomenon blitz that we just can’t block."
