Northwestern has a really good defense, take what is given…
Most underrated player in the B1G. He is going to be a very good pro. Brandon Joseph is another great young DB.
Northwestern's pass defense:
-1st in FBS opponent passer rating
-1st in FBS opponent yards per pass attempt
-1st in P5 scoring defense
-2nd FBS INTs per game
— 🎩(6-1) B1G NU Fan 🎩 (@NUCatFan23) December 17, 2020
One look at a Northwestern game this season and its passing defense just jumps right out. The Wildcats get pressure up front with a lot of speed, and the secondary capitalizes on the mistakes of opposing quarterbacks. Justin Fields needs to take what is given in the passing game and not get baited into making a bad throw. Northwestern will be looking for opportunities for creating turnovers to keep itself in the game.
Longer developing plays will probably not work against Northwestern. Justin Fields and Ryan Day must utilize quicker timing routes and pockets in the zone coverage. If the Buckeyes can get to where the aggressive Wildcats defense starts biting on play-action, then they might be able to push the ball downfield as the game goes on.
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