X-Factors for No. 1 Ohio State vs No. 4 Texas

All eyes are on Austin this weekend as Texas and Ohio State square off in a top five matchup. After a close and low scoring matchup last year, both teams will look to start off Saturday’s contest with more pep in their step offensively. However, if history repeats itself, this weekend’s top matchup could once again be a sneaky defensive matchup between two of the better defenses in the country.

Saturday’s X-Factors:

In my opinion, the first battle to watch is the Texas secondary versus Ohio State’s receivers. Of course, junior wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is perhaps the best player at his position and will be a heavy focus. However, the problem with facing Ohio State is it can often be their third best wide receiver, or second best tight end, that ends up quietly carving up the opponent’s defense.

Offensively for Texas, it will be important for the offensive line to show up. In last season’s game, Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning looked highly uncomfortable in the pocket. This season, the offensive line is more experienced but they will have to prove that they are also more talented. Along with the ‘big uglies’ up front, wide receiver Cam Coleman will have to help Arch out by again drawing attention from defenses and making big plays when able. Last weekend, Texas State’s focus on Coleman helped to free up other receiving options, even while still allowing the transfer wideout to score two touchdowns.

If the Longhorns can figure out their passing defense and find a way to keep Manning not only comfortable but, confident, on offense – this year’s team will be well-positioned to avenge Ohio State’s previous two wins against Steve Sarkisian’s squad.