Alabama versus Ohio State Unit Breakdown
Quarterbacks: Although third-string quarterback Cardale Jones, all 6-5, 250 pounds of him, looked great in the Big Ten title game win over Wisconsin, squaring off against Alabama’s defense with a month to prepare will be a much tougher challenge. With all-time single-season passing leader Blake Sims behind center, the Crimson Tide has a decided edge at this position.
EDGE: Bama
Running Backs: Ezekiel Elliot (1,402 rushing yards; 12 TDs) has been a mainstay in the Buckeyes offensive attack all season long and his deceptive power can wear down an opponent. Alabama’s three-headed monster of T.J. Yeldon, Derrick Henry and fullback Jalston Fowler gave opponents fits down the stretch, with Henry serving as a fourth quarter closer and Fowler a nice receiving option.
EDGE: Even
Receivers/Tight Ends: Amari Cooper, the nation’s leading receiver, DeAndrew White, Christion Jones and tight end O.J. Howard give Sims plenty of skilled weapons in Lane Kiffin’s arsenal. Devin Smith is a home run hitter for the Buckeyes and Michael Thomas is a rangy option in the red-zone, as is tight end Jeff Heurman. H-back Jalin Marshall is a dynamic running/receiving threat.
EDGE: Bama
Offensive Line: Both teams faced challenges with their offensive lines before the season began — Ohio State had to replace four starters while Alabama had to find a new right guard and left tackle — but the two units have found a groove and are playing well. How well each front plays will be critical for success squaring off against talented defensive lines.
EDGE: Bama
Defensive Line: OSU end Joey Bosa (6-5, 278) and tackle Michael Bennett (6-2, 288) give the Buckeyes a tremendous inside-out pass rush. Bosa, the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, can dominate games. Likewise Alabama nose guard A’Shawn Robinson. Robinson is cat-quick and is a good pass rusher for a player his size (6-4, 320). Jonathan Allen has also been steady for the Tide.
EDGE: Ohio State
Linebackers: Both teams have been historically strong here. Bama’s Reggie Ragland is a ferocious hitter who’s always around the ball. Trey DePriest has played well down the stretch and Xzavier Dickson (8 sacks) is a terrific pass rusher from his JACK position. Ohio State’s Joshua Perry and Darron Lee are tackling machines. They are also solid in pass coverage.
Edge: Bama
Secondary: Alabama has been vulnerable against the deep ball this season but it faced some great receivers all year long. Landon Collins, who hits like a missile, is as good as it gets at safety. Cyrus Jones has emerged at corner. The Buckeyes rank 15th in pass defense behind the strong play of cornerback Doran Grant (five INTs) and safety Vonn Bell.
Edge: Ohio State
Special Teams: OSU kicker Sean Nuernberger hit 11 of 18 field goal attempts and 5 of 10 from 40-49 yards. Conversely, Bama’s Adam Griffith was 12 of 19 and hit 4 of 7 from 40-49 yards. Crimson Tide punter JK Scott is a future pro. Christion Jones is a dynamic kick/punt returner. Likewise the Buckeyes’ Jalin Marshall is an electrifying playmaker.
Edge: Bama
Lindy’s Sports Staff Picks:
Lindy Davis: Alabama 41, Ohio State 27
Matt Lowe: Alabama 35, Ohio State 16
Lyn Scarbrough: Alabama 34, Ohio State 20
Anthony Gimino: Alabama 34, Ohio State 23