"Maybe it's a blessing in disguise"
Once done trying to define "targeting" for the 3,722nd time, fans in sports bars and living rooms across the Buckeye state Saturday afternoon likely heard someone offer the comment above when discussing the unfortunate injury to Zen Michalski in the fourth quarter of Ohio State's 21-17 win over Nebraska. After Michalski's early struggles spoiled the Buckeyes' second drive of the game, the left tackle making his first career start for the injured Josh Simmons had become the focal point of a frustrating day for many OSU fans.
Now, as the Buckeyes look to start a third player at that spot in as many games - in a hostile environment against a top-ranked pass rush, no less - many have wondered aloud whether Michalski's injury might have actually forced the Buckeyes to play their 'best five' remaining linemen, with Austin Siereveld expected to move into the starting lineup full time after rotating at guard throughout the season.
After watching the film in detail, however, it's hard to say anyone along that front should be feeling great about their current form. Don't believe me? Watch the video.
Here's what we go over in this week's video breakdown:
- How Nebraska targeted Michalski in pass protection
- 'Max' protection helped open up OSU's downfield passing game
- Inexcusable errors along the line in the running game
- Nebraska went to the well one time too many to stop the QB run game
As always, click the header photo above to watch the video here on the site, or head straight to YouTube.
