Monday Film Session: Breaking Down Ohio State's Offense vs. Akron

Here's some film analysis of Ohio State's offensive explosion against the Zips.

Author:
Pat Cavanaugh
Sep 27, 2021 8:00 AM EDT

Throughout the season, we will break down game film to spotlight certain plays that went well for the Buckeyes and others that did not. This week’s film breakdown will highlight the areas and plays that were successful for the Buckeyes.

If you missed our film evaluation of the Buckeye defense, check that out here.

Buckeye Offense vs. Akron Defense

With true freshman Kyle McCord starting his first collegiate game, it was apparent Ryan Day and offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson wanted to simplify their call sheet to ease McCord into the flow of the game. This was evidenced by screens and other quick throws into the boundary with limited reads and progressions.

It was also clear the Buckeyes wanted to involve Chris Olave early in the game after last week’s zero catch performance. As the game went on, McCord became more comfortable in the pocket and with his throws. Below are clips of the first three pass plays for McCord, followed by a fourth clip of his touchdown strike to Jaxon Smith-Njigba on the seam route.

Quick roll-out with no progression:

Screen to Olave with no progression:

Smash concept (hitch by outside receiver and corner by inside receiver) with basic read:

McCord's touchdown pass to Smith-Njiba on the seam route:

The perimeter blocking for the Buckeyes was outstanding in both the run and quick pass game. The clips below show how they were able to block the edge defenders of the Zips.

This clip shows TE Jeremy Ruckert run his feet perfectly and pancake block the edge defender:

The first score for the Buckeyes was due to TE Mitch Rossi sealing the edge defender for Olave to run in untouched.

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