Chip Kelly, the offensive coordinator for Ohio State and former head coach of Oregon, has not forgotten the controversial moment when the Ducks intentionally put 12 players on the field during their regular-season victory against the Buckeyes. This bold move, which head coach Dan Lanning later admitted was a strategic decision, proved to be a talking point as Ohio State prepared for their rematch in the Rose Bowl.
As Ohio State was driving down the field in the closing minutes of that game, Oregon was penalized for having too many players on the field. Lanning was unfazed by the 5-yard penalty, believing that the seconds lost were worth the trade-off. “We were willing to take that penalty to stop the clock,” he said, showcasing his team’s determination to control the game’s tempo.
Motivation for the Rose Bowl
Fast forward to the lead-up to the Rose Bowl, and Chip Kelly revealed that this incident served as a powerful motivator for the Buckeyes. “I’ll tell you what, it was a unique message with our players, you can’t stop us with 11. You had to stop us with 12,” Kelly explained. This statement resonated deeply with his team, setting the tone for their performance in the highly anticipated rematch.
The results spoke for themselves. Ohio State dominated the game, throwing for an impressive 319 yards and three touchdowns against Oregon. Quarterback Will Howard was sensational, averaging 12.3 yards per attempt, showcasing the Buckeyes’ offensive prowess.
Standout Performers
In that game, several players stepped up to make a mark. Jeremiah Smith was a standout, catching seven passes for a staggering 187 yards and two touchdowns. Meanwhile, Emeka Egbuka contributed significantly with five catches for 72 yards and a touchdown of his own. This kind of performance illustrates just how difficult it is to contain Ohio State’s offense when they are firing on all cylinders.
Kelly acknowledged the challenge of stopping Ohio State’s offense, stating, “They can double anybody they want. But they can’t double everybody.” This sentiment captures the essence of the Buckeyes’ strategy: they have too many weapons at their disposal, making it nearly impossible for defenses to cover all their bases without risking penalties.
Facing a Tough Notre Dame Secondary
Looking ahead, Chip Kelly is not just focused on the past; he is also preparing for the challenges that lie ahead, particularly against a tough Notre Dame secondary. He expressed admiration for the Fighting Irish’s defensive backs, noting their height, length, and ability to perform in single coverage. “I’m impressed. Both corners are tall and long and they do a great job in single coverage,” Kelly remarked.
The addition of safety Watts to the mix only heightens the challenge. Kelly stated, “He’s as good as a safety as there is in the country.” This acknowledgment highlights the respect he has for Notre Dame’s defense and the formidable task that awaits his offense.
Moreover, Kelly emphasized the importance of veteran leadership on the field. “When you have someone like Kiser, who is a six-year player, he has every answer to every formation check. He’s that truly coach on the field,” he said, pointing out how crucial experience is in high-stakes games. The combination of players like Kiser, Cross, and Watts creates a well-coordinated and formidable secondary that will test Ohio State’s offensive strategy.
The Impact of Past Games
Reflecting on the previous encounter with Oregon, Kelly noted how the messaging from that game carried over into their preparation for the Rose Bowl. The Buckeyes were not just playing for a win; they were playing to prove a point. The incident with the 12 players on the field served as a rallying cry, reminding the team that they needed to be at their best to overcome any obstacles.
The rematch against Oregon was not just about revenge; it was about demonstrating their capabilities on a national stage. Kelly’s confidence in his team’s ability to adapt and overcome challenges was evident in his comments, and the players responded accordingly.
Conclusion
As the college football season progresses, the Buckeyes are poised to make a significant impact, fueled by past experiences and a strong sense of purpose. With a potent offense and a deep understanding of their opponents, Ohio State is ready to tackle whatever comes their way. The journey ahead promises to be thrilling, and fans can expect nothing less than an exhilarating display of college football at its finest.
