Wisconsin vs Ohio State Prediction, Game Preview, Live Stream, Odds & Picks
Marquee Match in Big Ten
The Wisconsin Badgers and Ohio State Buckeyes open Big Ten play with a primetime showdown. The Shoe will be rocking in Columbus as the third-ranked Buckeyes sport their black alternate uniforms in front of a blacked-out crowd. Wisconsin better be prepared for a ruckus environment.
Usually, these are two of the best teams in the Big Ten. It could be a potential preview of the Big Ten Championship Game, where the two have clashed three times since 2014. The Badgers (2-1) could change the course of their season with a win while the Buckeyes (3-0) look to keep the ball rolling following their 77-21 win over Toledo.
Check the latest NCAAF picks, stats, injury reports, and NCAAF odds for Wisconsin vs Ohio State. We’ve plenty of NCAAF predictions for you to consider.
Wisconsin Badgers
Wisconsin Badgers’ season is off to a disappointing start. In Week 2, the Badgers were favored by more than 17 points as they hosted Washington State. Thanks to sloppy play, Wisconsin was stunned and lost 17-14. It’s amazing the Badgers managed to lose the game as they outgained the Cougars by almost 150 yards, had 12 more first downs and won the time of possession battle by about 17 minutes.
Wisconsin must capitalize on any advantage over Ohio State. The Badgers cannot afford to win in nearly every category and throw their chances away due to turnovers and penalties.
Against New Mexico State, Wisconsin was much cleaner. Plus, quarterback Graham Mertz continued decent play, going 12 of 15 with 251 passing yards and three touchdowns.
This week, Wisconsin has several keys to taking down the Buckeyes. Ride the run game with Braelon Allen, who has 332 rushing yards on six yards per carry, leading the way. The Badgers need to win the time of possession battle and limit Ohio State’s possessions. Mertz cannot turn the ball over, and the defense must limit big plays. This will be the Badgers’ toughest test of the season.
Ohio State Buckeyes
The Ohio State Buckeyes’ passing attack was at full strength against Toledo. In their returns from injury, Jaxon Smith-Njigba had a pair of receptions and Julian Fleming snagged two touchdowns. Sophomore wideouts Emeka Egbuka and Marvin Harrison Jr. continued their high level of play as both posted over 100 receiving yards with a touchdown.
Quarterback C.J. Stroud was as sharp as ever, totaling 367 passing yards and five touchdowns. Per NCAAF lines, Stroud is the Heisman Trophy favorite at +225.
There’s just no stopping him. 🙌@MarvHarrisonJr x @OhioStateFB pic.twitter.com/z5MKvpMED3
— Ohio State on BTN (@OhioStateOnBTN) September 18, 2022
The offensive line’s performance was perhaps the biggest positive. Stroud had all day to throw, and there was a consistent push in the run game. Running back TreVeyon Henderson exited early with an injury. In his place, Miyan Williams averaged 7.7 yards per carry. This is the Ohio State offense most envisioned, but it was against Toledo. Wisconsin’s defense will be a great test as it ranks eighth in yards allowed per game (247.5).
On defense, Ohio State is susceptible to giving up big plays, especially through the air. But for the most part, the Buckeyes’ defense has held up well. Wisconsin’s Allen will be the best offensive player OSU has played up to this point. If the Buckeyes can stop the run, they will be in good shape. Ohio State ranks 13th in yards allowed per carry (2.6).
Wisconsin vs Ohio State Injury Report
Wisconsin’s secondary is getting thin. The Badgers’ projected starting safety, Travian Blaylock, was already out for the season (knee). Safety Hunter Wohler will be out his third consecutive (leg) and No. 1 cornerback Alexander Smith will be out (hamstring). Starting right tackle Riley Mahlman is expected to return.
For Ohio State, running back Henderson is expected to return. Breakout defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. and safeties Tanner McCalister and Josh Proctor are questionable with undisclosed injuries.
Wisconsin vs Ohio State Head-to-Head
Ohio State has won eight consecutive games against Wisconsin. The last meeting was in the 2019 Big Ten Championship. OSU won 34-21.
Wisconsin vs Ohio State Game Information
- Game: Wisconsin vs Ohio State
- Location: Ohio Stadium, Columbus, Ohio
- Day/Time: Saturday, Sept. 24, 7:30 p.m. ET
- Wisconsin vs Ohio State Live Stream: ESPN
Wisconsin vs Ohio State Betting Lines
Wisconsin vs Ohio State Prediction
Dealing with injuries in the secondary against Ohio State is a recipe for disaster. Wisconsin can have some success on offense and could stay close if QB Mertz makes big plays. However, Mertz has been shaky to start the season. The Buckeyes’ passing attack is hitting its stride as the offensive line keeps improving. Ohio State will pull away late, covering the spread.
