Big Ten Football: Power Rankings – Week One

3. Ohio St (2)

Last Week: 34-17 win over Navy

Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

The 17-point victory on Saturday doesn’t tell the whole story.

Navy pushed Ohio State to the limit and had the Buckeyes on the ropes.

Two late touchdowns helped the final score look more respectable, but the Buckeye offense struggled.

The defense finally shut down Navy’s one dimensional offense in the fourth quarter, but part of that was due to unforced fumbling issues on the Middies’ part.

Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett’s first game as a starter wasn’t terrible, but the redshirt freshman showed his inexperience at times, allowing Navy to stay in the game.

Barrett can pass and run well enough, but he’s no Braxton Miller. However, no one should’ve expected him to be.

Not all blame should be placed on Barrett as the the most of the Ohio State offense was just as green.

The constantly under-performing defense and a supposedly-rock solid defensive line gave up 370 yards on the ground, despite zero passing threat from Navy.

Ohio State returns home to play Virginia Tech this week in what should be one of many close games this season for the Buckeyes.

This Week: Virginia Tech (Sept 6 – 7 P.M. on ESPN)

My Prediction: Ohio State 24-17