3 keys to Akron, Ohio State game

Early success

Ohio State has scored only one touchdown in the first quarter this season, averaging just 3.3 points during the first 15 minutes. It’s a trend that has allowed teams to stick around and not fear the Ohio State aura. As a result, the Buckeyes have trailed early in each game against Minnesota, Oregon and Tulsa. It shouldn’t fool around with Akron, which is among the worst teams in the Football Bowl Subdivision and has won only twice in three seasons under coach Tom Arth.

Explosive runs

This isn’t rocket science. Treveyon Henderson is an explosive running back. He broke a 49-year freshman rushing record held by Archie Griffin when he ran for 277 yards in last Saturday’s win over Tulsa. Two of his three touchdowns were runs of 52 and 48 yards. His long was 54. If he keeps getting carries, expect more big runs, especially against Akron’s defense, which is likely to be overmatched. The Zips have allowed 19 explosive runs (10 or more yards) this season.

Find a pass rush

The Buckeyes are searching for a pass rush. They have only four sacks, their fewest over the first three games of a season since 2010. But they should be able to exploit Akron’s wobbly offensive line that has allowed 12 sacks. Only seven FBS teams have allowed more. The potential return of starting defensive end Zach Harrison should help, but freshmen Jack Sawyer, J.T. Tuimoloau and Tyleik Williams also keep making an impact.

Key matchup

Ohio State defense vs. Akron quarterback DJ Irons

One of the few bright spots in the Zips’ 1-2 start has been behind center. Making his first career start in last week’s win over Bryant of the Football Championship Subdivision, junior college transfer DJ Irons completed 19 of 23 passes for 296 yards and three touchdowns, while also running for another 136 yards and a score. The Buckeyes encountered some difficulties the last time they faced a dual-threat quarterback in Oregon’s Anthony Brown and will have a chance to show their improvement against Irons, presuming he continues to start over Kato Nelson.

Key stat

44: Consecutive games Ohio State has won over in-state schools, a streak that has continued since a 7-7 tie against Wooster in 1924.

Joey Kaufman covers Ohio State football for The Columbus Dispatch. Contact him at jkaufman@dispatch.com or on Twitter @joeyrkaufman.

JAKE CRANDALL VIA IMAGN CONTENT SERVICES, LLC Akron Zips running back Jonzell Norrils (6) runs the ball at Jordanhare Stadium in Auburn, Ala., on Sept. 4.