Ohio State back in action against Army

The Buckeyes are stinging from a tough loss to Oklahoma, while the Black Knights are looking for their first victory over a ranked opponent since 1972. They meet Sept. 16 in Columbus.

As Ohio State gets ready to play Army, here are a few quick hits about the game:

What’s at stake

Ohio State is still stinging from the thumping by Oklahoma at home last week and trying to solve some problems with its passing game and defense. Army is much improved under coach Jeff Monken and even came from behind to beat Buffalo last week, but the Black Knights will have trouble being competitive with the Buckeyes. Keeping the score close would be a moral victory. After the humiliation of last week, Ohio State can use a solid, feel-good home win.

Key matchup

Army’s triple-option against the Ohio State defense. The Black Knights are the worst passing team in the nation but rank second nationally in rushing with an average of 417.5 yards per game after home victories over Fordham and Buffalo. Senior QB Ahmad Bradshaw and fullback Darnell Woolfolk are a tough 1-2 punch and difficult to contain. With one of the best defensive lines in the nation, the Buckeyes specialize in stuffing the run.

Players to watch

Army: Bradshaw is operating at a high level, averaging 162 yards per game to rank sixth nationally, and 9.5 per carry with three TDs. He has seven 100-yard games in his career.

Ohio State: RB J.K. Dobbins ran for 181 yards in week one and another 72 yards last week splitting time with Mike Weber. The true freshman is special, possessing slick moves and breakaway speed. Weber’s hamstring continued to bother him last week and he’s still not 100 percent.