Greg Schiano Praises Ohio State’s Strong Football Team
In a recent matchup, Rutgers faced a challenging game against Ohio State, entering as 31.5-point underdogs with a 5-5 record. Greg Schiano, the head coach of Rutgers, acknowledged that for his team to secure an upset, many factors would need to align favorably.
Game Overview
The Scarlet Knights started strong, trailing Ohio State 14-3 in the early third quarter. However, Ohio State displayed their strength by scoring touchdowns on four consecutive possessions, ultimately winning the game 42-9 at Ohio Stadium.
Schiano’s Praise for Ohio State
Post-game, Schiano commended Ohio State’s performance, stating, “Ohio State’s got a really good football team.” He expressed pride in his players’ efforts, even though they fell short in execution.
Evaluating Performance
Although trailing by only 11 points at one stage could be seen as a positive indicator, Schiano emphasized the need for improvement. “We did some good things but made mistakes,” he noted. He highlighted that improvement must come from everyone, including himself.
Challenges and Penalties
Rutgers faced challenges throughout the game, particularly with defensive penalties that extended Ohio State’s scoring drives. Schiano recounted several critical moments:
- Stopping Ohio State on third down, only to incur a penalty.
- A fourth-down infraction that allowed Ohio State to continue their offensive momentum.
- Fans and coaches alike noted a controversial call on an 11-yard touchdown pass that left a receiver wide open.
Looking Forward
Despite the loss, Schiano recognized his team’s limitations, stating, “We’re not one or two plays away from winning this game.” While he acknowledged that certain calls could have shifted the dynamics, he firmly believes that Ohio State’s superior play ultimately dictated the outcome.
Upcoming Challenges
As Rutgers moves forward, they have an important game against Michigan in Ann Arbor next Saturday. This matchup promises to be a significant challenge as the Scarlet Knights aim to improve their record and build on their experiences from the Ohio State game.
