As the Texas Longhorns prepare to face off against the Ohio State Buckeyes in what promises to be one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the 2024 college football season, one key takeaway is clear: the Longhorns cannot afford to rely solely on the pass if they hope to topple one of the nation’s most formidable teams. While Texas has a talented quarterback in Quinn Ewers and a receiving corps that can stretch the field, their path to victory against Ohio State will require a balanced offensive attack, particularly with the running game.
Ohio State’s defense is notoriously stout, particularly in the secondary. While their front seven can be exploited in certain matchups, they’re adept at shutting down high-powered passing offenses, making it all the more essential for Texas to establish a strong ground game. If the Longhorns are going to succeed, they will need to find ways to effectively run the ball against a defense that has been dominant in recent years. For Texas, it’s not just about having a good passing game; it’s about complementing it with a strong, punishing rushing attack that can keep Ohio State’s defense honest.
Let’s break down why Texas can’t live by the pass alone against Ohio State and why their running game will be pivotal in this high-stakes contest.
### Ohio State’s Defensive Strengths: A Challenge for the Passing Game
The Ohio State Buckeyes boast one of the most talented defenses in the country, and their ability to shut down elite passing offenses is well-documented. Under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, Ohio State has developed a defense that is fast, physical, and aggressive, with one of the best secondaries in college football. Cornerbacks like Denzel Burke and safety Ronnie Hickman are among the nation’s best, capable of locking down wide receivers and preventing big plays.
In 2023, the Buckeyes ranked in the top 10 nationally in pass defense, holding opponents to just 180 yards per game through the air. With a secondary that can limit explosive passing plays, the pressure on Quinn Ewers and the Longhorns’ aerial attack is immense. Ohio State’s defensive line is also formidable, capable of generating consistent pressure on the quarterback, which can disrupt timing and force mistakes. As a result, Texas must consider the limitations of relying too heavily on the pass, especially against a defense that can take away some of their key offensive strengths.
If Texas becomes one-dimensional in their approach and fails to establish a ground game, they will be playing right into Ohio State’s hands. The Buckeyes’ defense thrives when they know an offense is predictable, and a heavy reliance on passing will allow them to key in on Ewers, forcing him into uncomfortable situations. This scenario will be difficult for Texas, especially in critical moments when they need to control the clock and keep the Ohio State offense off the field.
### The Longhorns’ Running Game: The Key to Balance
For Texas to succeed against Ohio State, the Longhorns must commit to the run and find a way to exploit the Buckeyes’ front seven. While Ohio State’s defense has traditionally been strong against the pass, their run defense is more susceptible to strong, physical ground attacks. In 2023, Ohio State’s rush defense ranked in the middle of the pack nationally, allowing 150 yards per game. While they have some elite players on the defensive line, such as J.T. Tuimoloau, who can disrupt running plays, the Buckeyes have shown vulnerabilities when teams can establish a successful running game.
This is where Texas can gain a significant advantage. The Longhorns have one of the most dynamic running back rooms in college football, with an impressive mix of power, speed, and elusiveness. Bijan Robinson may be gone to the NFL, but Texas still has talented backs like Jonathon Brooks and Cedric Baxter Jr., who can both carry the load and deliver explosive plays when needed.
Jonathon Brooks, in particular, will be a key figure in Texas’ rushing attack. The junior running back has shown flashes of brilliance, displaying the ability to hit the hole quickly, break tackles, and make defenders miss. Brooks’ vision and patience in the backfield will be essential in keeping the Buckeyes’ defense honest and opening up opportunities in the passing game. Texas will need to feed Brooks early and often to set the tone, especially in the first half, when they can establish a rhythm.
Additionally, quarterback Quinn Ewers’ ability to contribute to the ground game will be crucial. While he’s primarily known for his strong arm, Ewers has the mobility to make plays with his legs when necessary. Texas has already showcased designed quarterback runs and read-option plays that allow Ewers to pull the ball and gain valuable yardage. If Ewers can keep the Buckeyes’ defense off-balance with his own rushing threat, it will force Ohio State to account for another dimension in their defensive schemes.
### The Importance of Offensive Line Play
A successful running game begins with strong offensive line play, and this is where Texas’ offensive line must rise to the occasion. Ohio State’s defensive front, led by star defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau, will present a massive challenge for Texas’ blockers. Tuimoloau has the ability to disrupt both the pass and run game, and his size and athleticism make him a nightmare for opposing offensive lines.
Texas’ offensive line will need to be physical, disciplined, and patient. They’ll need to create running lanes for Brooks and Baxter, while also providing Ewers with enough time to survey the field when he looks to pass. The line must also do a better job of executing double teams, especially when it comes to Ohio State’s interior defensive linemen, to open up holes for the running backs. Offensive coordinator Kyle Flood will likely need to get creative with his play calling, mixing in traps, counters, and sweeps to keep the Ohio State defense guessing.
Another key factor will be Texas’ ability to execute on third downs. Converting third-and-short situations will allow the Longhorns to sustain drives and avoid putting themselves in long-yardage passing situations. If the Longhorns can pick up first downs with their running game, they can wear down the Ohio State defense, keep their offense off the field, and control the tempo of the game. In turn, this will give Ewers more opportunities to capitalize on passing opportunities when Ohio State’s defense is forced to respect the run.
### Keeping Ohio State’s Offense Off the Field
In addition to helping the Longhorns’ offense, a successful running game will allow Texas to control the clock and limit Ohio State’s offensive opportunities. The Buckeyes’ high-powered offense, led by quarterback Kyle McCord and a host of talented receivers, has the potential to score quickly and often. If Texas allows Ohio State to get into a rhythm by failing to move the ball consistently on offense, the Buckeyes will be able to dictate the game.
By establishing a strong running game, Texas can chew up valuable clock and keep McCord and the explosive Ohio State offense on the sidelines. This is especially important for a Texas defense that, while talented, is still growing under head coach Steve Sarkisian’s system. The longer the defense stays off the field, the fresher they’ll be when it’s time to make stops, particularly against Ohio State’s fast-paced offense.
### Conclusion: A Balanced Attack is Key for Texas
In order for Texas to compete with and potentially defeat Ohio State, they will need to find success in the running game. While Quinn Ewers and the passing attack are certainly dangerous, relying solely on the pass won’t be enough to overcome one of the most complete teams in college football. The Longhorns will need to establish a strong ground game, controlling the tempo, wearing down the Buckeyes’ defense, and opening up opportunities in the passing game.
A balanced offensive attack will force Ohio State’s defense to respect both the pass and the run, creating the opportunities needed for Texas to make big plays. With a talented running back room, a strong offensive line, and a quarterback who can make plays with his legs, Texas has the tools to succeed on the ground. If the Longhorns can establish the run early, they will be in a much better position to challenge the Buckeyes and pull off the upset.
As the 2024 season heats up, this matchup will be one of the most critical for Texas’ playoff aspirations. To stand a chance against Ohio State, the Longhorns will need to prove they can do more than just pass the ball—they will need to run with authority.
