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Defense Dominant, But Offense Sputters As Buckeyes Hold Slim Halftime Lead vs. Mizzou

The Ohio State Buckeyes could be in trouble at the Cotton Bowl after one half of play

The Ohio State Buckeyes came to the Cotton Bowl to take on the Missouri Tigers in Arlington looking to end the season with some momentum.

And despite leading 3-0 after one half of play, however, they appear to be in serious trouble.

Things weren't right from the start for the Buckeyes offense, with new starter Devin Brown struggling out of the gate to get into a rhythm. Brown was able to complete a couple of passes after a three-and-out on the first possession, but the offense was never able to get a real drive going. 

Ryan Day

Then, things got even worse, with Brown - who was already hobbled with an early lower body injury - being knocked out of the game after a sack on a third down. Brown was 4 of 6 for 20 yards at the time of the injury.

True freshman backup Lincoln Kienholz attempted to replace Brown on the next two drives, but once again, the Buckeyes offense continued to sputter. 

In fact, as a team offensively, the Buckeyes have managed 76 total yards of offense, 44 of which have come on 13 carries from TreVeyon Henderson.

It is unknown if Brown will return in the second half. 

Fortunately for Ohio State, the defense has shown up thus far, holding a usually explosive Missouri offense in check with just 112 total yards of their own. 

That said, even if Brown is unable to return, things are not looking good for the Buckeyes the rest of the way. 

Ohio State will kickoff to start the second half after receiving the opening kick.