Week 2 – UCF at Ohio State

Week 2 CFN Fearless Prediction – UCF at Ohio State

- CFN Fearless Predictions

UCF (1-0) at Ohio State (1-0) Sept. 8, 12:00, ESPN2

Here’s The Deal: Ohio State and UCF meet for the first time in a game of particular importance to the visitors. The Knights have never beaten a ranked, non-conference opponent, and certainly have never done it in a building with as much history as the Horseshoe. This trip to Columbus presents an opportunity for George O’Leary’s team to make a loud national statement as it begins preparations for next year’s move to the Big East. It could also be seen as a quasi-bowl game for a school still awaiting word on its appeal on a one-year postseason ban. The Buckeyes began the anticipated Urban Meyer era with a resounding 56-10 victory over Miami U. on the opening Saturday of the season. There’s no doubt that sanctioned Ohio State won’t be competing in a bowl game, turning the 2012 priorities to fully installing Meyer’s systems, and building a head of steam toward 2013.

Why UCF Might Win: It’s a good thing the Knights are deep in the backfield, because top back Latavius Murray is out with a shoulder injury. Taking his place will be former Miami transfer Storm Johnson and one-time starter Brynn Harvey. UCF was potent in its Week 1 trip to Ohio to play Akron, scoring eight touchdowns, three off the arm of Blake Bortles. It’s a program that has the speed to match one of the game’s heavyweights, and the defense to slow down the Ohio State offense. FS Kemal Ishmael, LB Jonathan Davis and ends Victor Gray and Troy Davis all play with terrific range.

Why Ohio State Might Win: QB Braxton Miller wasted no time looking as if he’ll be an ideal fit for Meyer’s version of the spread. The second-year playmaker will present unique challenges to UCF, stretching it with his open-field moves and quick release. The Buckeyes will also rate a significant at the point of attack when the Knights have the ball. While UCF is marginal up front, the Ohio State D-line is among the nastiest in the country, and will consistently create traffic jams with DE John Simon, DT Johnathan Hankins and NG Garrett Goebel. The Knights won’t get to the second level often on Saturday.

What To Watch Out For: Miller is a budding phenom, who could go on to lead the Buckeyes in rushing in 2012. However, the team still needs to develop a presence on the ground from someone other than the quarterback. With Jordan Hall still out, bruising Carlos Hyde will once again be the feature back. He’s a 235-pounder, with just enough giddy up to scoot past linebackers who try to get an angle on him. After going for 82 yards and two scores in Week 1, he’s poised to post the third 100-yard day of his career.

What Will Happen: With Ohio State and UCF in the same building, it figures to be a very physical game that splices in the occasional big play. The latter is more likely to be delivered by a player wearing scarlet and gray. The Knights won’t be able to match the flash of Miller, especially without the services of Murray on the ground. Plus, the Buckeyes’ defensive edge at the point of attack will be evident throughout, preventing UCF from sustaining drives.

CFN Prediction: Ohio State 34 … UCF 14
ATS Consultants Line (Click for more lines and picks) Ohio State -18 O/U: 50
Must Watch Rating (5 – Phineas & Ferb, 1 – Steve Harvey): 2.5