WHAT TO KNOW

What’s at stake

Ohio State gets to test its 16 new starters in a tuneup game against the in-state Mid-American Conference opponent that won its conference last year. Having knocked off two Big Ten teams last year, the Falcons would like a good showing against the Buckeyes in the first game for new coach Mike Jinks.

Key matchup

Bowling Green’s seasoned offensive line vs. Ohio State’s retooled defensive

front. With three new starters and a lack of depth, the Buckeyes’ defensive line must overcome a BG line that is the most experienced in the country to get at QB James Knapke.

Players to watch

Bowling Green: RB Fred Coppet. He’ll start after running for 825 yards and scoring five touchdowns in a backup role last year.

Ohio State: H- back Curtis Samuel. One of the Buckeyes most experienced receivers also is expected line up as a tailback to help bolster the running game. Coaches would like him to touch the ball 10 to 15 times.

Facts & figures

Ohio State coach Urban Meyer began his head coaching career at Bowling Green in 2001. ...There will be lots of new faces on the field with Ohio State returning only six starters, and Bowling Green returning just 10. ... Bowling Green has defeated three Big Ten teams in the past two years. ... BG ranks fifth in total offense in the country over the past two seasons. ... The Buckeyes are 32-1 all-time against current members of the MAC. ... Ohio State is 113-9-4 in home openers since 1890, including 36 of the last 37. ... Meyer is 14-0 in season openers as a head coach.

Betting line

Ohio State by 28