Ohio State will have revenge on their mind as they start the defense of their national championship on Labor Day evening in Blacksburg, Virginia. While their 2014 season took a turn for the worst, Virginia Tech had bragging rights as the only team that was able to defeat the Buckeyes during their championship run. They stunned Ohio State with a 35-21 defeat at The Horseshoe in Columbus.
The question heading into the 2015 season for the Buckeyes centers around how they will use their personnel. Particularly, who will be the starting quarterback for Ohio State. Braxton Miller has switched to wide receiver over the offseason leaving the battle between J.T. Barrett and Cardale Jones.
Virginia Tech will prove to be a challenging road test for the defending champions. Lane Stadium is a difficult place to play in especially at night.
Here is everything you need to know about the Labor Day matchup:
The Basics
Who:
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Virginia Tech Hokies
When:
September 7th, 8 PM ET
Channel:
ESPN
Where:
Lane Stadium; Blacksburg, Virginia
Line:
Ohio State by 14 (Line is according to OddsShark and subject to change.)
Last Meeting:
Virginia Tech went on the road last season and defeated Ohio State 35-21. J.T. Barrett threw three interceptions.
Ohio State Preview
The Buckeyes need a big game from Ezekiel Elliott. (Getty)
Ohio State has not announced who will start at quarterback between J.T. Barrett and Cardale Jones. There is some speculation that Urban Meyer could play both. Barrett is the favorite for the position, but he struggled last season against Ohio State. Virginia Tech’s defense overwhelmed the Buckeyes and Meyer is certain to have a new game plan this time. The question is what that game plan will be.
The Buckeyes will need more out of star running back Ezekiel Elliott than in the previous matchup. He rushed for just 32 yards on 8 carries.
One other thing to keep an eye on is the impact of Ohio State missing four players due to suspension. Star defensive end Joe Bosa is one of the players who will not play in Monday’s game.
Virginia Tech Preview
It was the Virginia Tech defense that led the Hokies to victory a year ago and to pull off another upset they will need the defense again to lead the way. According to Phil Steele, Virginia Tech has 16 returning starting players which should help the Hokies improve upon their 2014 campaign.
The x-factor for Virginia Tech is quarterback Michael Brewer. Brewer had an inconsistent 2014 and even played inconsistently against Ohio State a year ago. The Hokies will need Brewer to play at his best to have a chance at victory Monday night. Keep an eye on cornerback Kendall Fuller who is one of the top defensive backs in the nation.
Heavy’s Pick
Ohio State 27, Virginia Tech 20
Urban Meyer and company have been eyeing this game all offseason. The Buckeyes will be challenged in a hostile road environment without some of their key players. The game will be closer than many people expect and smart money is on the 14 points the Hokies are getting. Ohio State wins the game, but not by the 14 points Vegas predicts.
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