Indiana's secondary separates Hoosiers from history, in today's matchup vs Ohio State

When Indiana travels to Ohio State, both teams understand what is on the line including a spot in the Big Ten championship game and potentially qualification into the College Football Playoffs. There are many narratives surrounding the game as analysts target the matchup between Indiana's offense and Ohio State's defense as the potential deciding factor in the game but that may not necessarily be the case.

It is in fact Indiana's secondary versus Ohio State's praised wide-receiving core that will decide Saturday's contest. Jeremiah Smith, Emeka Egbuka, and Carnell Tate are the three-headed spear that Ryan Day drives into the heart of the secondary. In his patented 11-personnel offense, those three players open up everything through crisp route running and their big play ability.

Indiana has yet to face a passing attack this prolific this season. Indiana's biggest test came against revered offensive mind Mike Locksley and the Maryland Terrapins. In the matchup, Maryland QB Billy Edwards Jr threw for 289 yards and three touchdowns.

Maryland scored 28 points in the contest, the most by any team this season against Indiana. It will be up to players like Amare Ferrell, who leads the team in interceptions to contain Ohio State. Indiana has kept opponents to 13.8 points per game while Ohio State has averaged 37.8 on offense.

If Indiana can prohibit the pass, especially the big play through the air, the Buckeyes have a tendency to crumble. With this known, expect a big-time one versus one matchup deep downfield early, a potential omen for the rest of the game.

If Indiana wins, it will be their first win over the Buckeyes since their blowout of Ohio State in Bloomington in 1988. Indiana would also clinch a spot in the Big 10 championship game. The Hoosiers' last conference title came in 1967.

Ohio State is favorite as of Friday morning (11/22). Ohio State is favorite over Indiana -10.5 points and the over/under is currently at 52.5 points, according toFan Duel Sportsbook.