Remember when Oklahoma quarterback Austin Kendall said Ohio State had a “basic defense” in 2016? A Purdue defender offered a similar assessment of Ohio State’s offense this week.
During an interview with Purdue reporters on Wednesday, Scourton described Ohio State’s offense as “very basic” and suggested that Purdue’s defense will be well-prepared for it because of similar offenses it’s played, though he did offer some praise of the Buckeyes’ offensive playmakers.
“Obviously a lot of skill guys, receivers, a good running back. I would say a very basic offense, though,” Scourton said when asked what he thinks about Ohio State’s offense. “Some things that we have seen before. But they’ve got some nice guys out there.”
Ohio State’s offense hasn’t performed up to its usual standard so far this season, tied for 27th in the FBS in points per game (35) and 38th in yards per game (434.4). Its offensive line has been a weak spot, particularly in the run game, where the Buckeyes rank just 64th nationally in yards per carry (4.36).
Purdue’s defense, however, ranks just 77th in yards allowed per game (380.3) and 87th in points allowed per game (28). Scourton has been productive individually, recording 23 total tackles with six tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks, but the Boilermakers have already allowed at least 35 points in three games this season (Fresno State, Syracuse, Wisconsin).
“Very basic offense” or not, Ohio State is favored to win Saturday’s game in West Lafayette by 19.5 points. But Scourton says that doesn’t bother him.
“I’ve been the underdog my whole life, man. It is what it is,” Scourton said.
Saturday’s game in West Lafayette is scheduled to kick off at noon and will be broadcast exclusively by the streaming platform Peacock.
