Buckeyes set to host primetime kickoff with Rutgers
COLUMBUS — Ohio State is set for another primetime game as the Big Ten announced its Week Three schedule on Monday afternoon.
The Buckeyes will welcome former defensive coordinator Greg Schiano and Rutgers for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff on Nov. 7.
After dominating the Scarlet Knights by a combined score of 222-24 in the last four meetings between them, Ohio State could see an improved Rutgers program coming to Columbus. Schiano’s revamped program has been bolstered by a number of high-profile transfers –Â including former Buckeyes Rose Bowl MVP Brendon White — and had no problem with Michigan State in East Lansing. Rutgers opened the season by knocking off the Spartans 38-27 thanks to a ball-hawking defense that forced seven Michigan State turnovers.
While the Buckeyes are unlikely to hand the ball over that frequently, they’re certainly going to be aware of what Schiano and his coaching staff are emphasizing.
Greg Schiano served three years as the defensive coordinator at Ohio State. (Birm/Lettermen Row)
Ohio State will play back-to-back night games, but this year’s contests under the lights are going to have a much different feel as limited attendance numbers continues to provide weird stadium vibes. The game against the Scarlet Knights could — unexpectedly — turn into a big one if Rutgers can find a way to knock off No. 17-ranked Indiana when it hosts the Hoosiers on Halloween.
As mentioned, the Buckeyes have dominated Rutgers in recent years, winning all six contests against the Scarlet Knights and none by less than 35 points. With Schiano, who spent three years as Ohio State’s defensive coordinator under Urban Meyer, back in the mix, there’s going to be a bit more of a personal touch at Ohio Stadium in two weeks. Buckeyes coach Ryan Day counted Schiano as one of his most important mentors and advisors as he transitioned into the head coaching role with the Buckeyes.
“I want to thank coach Greg Schiano for the example he set every day,” Day said when Schiano left Columbus for a short-lived stint back in the NFL. “For the players and the members of this coaching staff, of what it means to be selfless, committed and dedicated. Our players saw these attributes in Greg and they learned from his example. I personally also want to thank Greg for his wisdom and thoughtful guidance during my time as acting head coach this season.”
The prime time game between the Buckeyes and Scarlet Knights will air on the Big Ten Network.
