Ohio State vs. Western Michigan Prediction, Game Preview

It’s the first ever meeting between the two schools, and now Western Michigan (1-2) gets the honor of facing not only the No. 1 team in the country, but having also dealt with the No. 2 squad – at least according to some polls – losing to Michigan State to start the season. Can Ohio State (3-0) start to look like that top team? Check out the Ohio State vs. Western Michigan prediction and full game preview.

Ohio State vs. Western Michigan Game Preview

Broadcast

Date: Saturday, September 26
Game Time: 3:30
Venue: Ohio Stadium, Columbus, Ohio
Network: ABC

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Why You Need To Care

Considering it’s still ranked No. 1 in both major polls, Ohio State certainly seems to have its share of issues. The quarterback situation is hardly settled, the offense is sputtering, and it took way too much effort to put Northern Illinois away at home. Call it a lack of focus, or the inability to care all that much until the lights really do turn on, but it would be nice to have a quiet week after an easy win.

Western Michigan was stunned by Georgia Southern and its quirky running game a few weeks ago, but despite the 1-2 start this is still among the most dangerous teams in the MAC. If NIU gave Ohio State problems, the Broncos with their passing attack could make it a nightmare of an afternoon. If nothing else, call this a measuring stick opponent for OSU – Michigan State won the opener by 13.

Why Western Michigan Will Win

Start throwing, keep throwing, and don’t quit throwing. The running game has yet to work and it’s not going to start now. The Broncos have a dangerous air attack with Zach Terrell hitting 71% of his passes so far highlighted by a 365-yard day against Michigan State. The WMU offense will keep the pressure on all game long.

Why Ohio State Will Win

WMU makes way too many mistakes. At the moment, this is a one-dimensional team that turns the ball over at an alarming rate, giving it away eight times in three games and having yet to win the turnover battle this year. That’s not going to fly in Columbus. If the Broncos aren’t at least +3, there’s no shot.

Player Who Matters

Okay, really, is Cardale Jones that bad? He’s wildly inconsistent and his 4-of-9 start with two interceptions against Northern Illinois set off panic sirens. There’s no questioning his talent, but the Buckeyes have to deal with the misfires and mistakes as he grows into the job. Ezekiel Elliott has rushed for over 100 yards in each of the first three games and the defense doesn’t give up a thing – Jones can struggle and Ohio State can still win. As long as there’s some progression forward, that’s fine. The upside is still too good to ignore.

What’s Going To Happen?

This will be the Ohio State everyone wants to see. Expect a far more focused, far more explosive, far better all-around effort after all of the problems and sloppiness so far. Enough is enough – the team will be awake.