The Key:
Northwestern leads Ohio State 20-13 going into halftime of tonight’s contest at Ryan Field, and the defense is the reason. In two trips to the red zone, the Wildcats held the Buckeyes to just field goals each time. Ohio State’s only touchdown came on a blocked punt in the end zone.
The defense also set up NU’s first score. Senior defensive end Tyler Scott sacked and stripped OSU’s Braxton Miller and then recovered the fumble as well. The subsequent field position set up a touchdown reception by senior Kain Colter, who played quarterback and wide receiver in the first half.
What Northwestern needs to win:
Score.
The offense mixed in new packages this week, and the return of senior running back Venric Mark sparked some big plays. But the offense needs to convert its field goal drives into touchdowns.
Also, the defense can help the cause by producing more turnovers. An interception at the end of the first half helped maintain the lead, but more big plays will be needed late in the game for the Cats to win.
— Rohan Nadkarni
