Ohio State can exploit these two areas of weakness against Indiana

Before Ohio State takes on Indiana, we scout the offense and defense of the Hoosiers. They have been good, but here’s how to beat them.

The Hoosiers have been better than advertised on offense, but there are some concerns

Michael Penix Jr. has thrown some absolute dimes this season. Watching him make some of the throws against Michigan and Penn State were almost jaw-dropping. He stood in the pocket as pressure almost got to him and delivered passes on time and on point. Of course, everyone will remember the play against Penn State to win the game, but his throwing has been really good, for the most part.

But it’s not all chocolates and roses. When Penix is pressured and can’t get his feet set, he will make some head-scratching throws. His interception against Michigan State was ugly. He wanted to get the ball out early, which he has done well this season, but the pressure forced him to throw on the move and he lofted a ball up for grabs.

While some of his throws have been into tight windows, there are some throws where it looks like he just throws and hopes for the best. This season, the best has happened more often than not. Penix’s completion percentage is actually down this season from 68.8% to 60.7%. He has also suffered three interceptions compared to four all of last year.

That means that while Penix is getting more comfortable in pushing the ball into tight windows and letting his receivers make plays, he is also taking more chances. When he is out of rhythm and unable to set his feet he will make mistakes. Ohio State is a better team than anyone Indiana has faced and it could result in some negative plays and turnovers Saturday.

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 NEXT … The Hoosier defense likes to play zone