Ohio State had the week off from games after the heartbreaking loss to Oregon. An extra week to lick its wounds, heal some bumps and bruises, and most importantly, figure out how to get better. The Buckeyes start the stretch run with some really big games that will determine the outcome of the season.
As he does each week, Joel Klatt has re-ranked the Top 10 as he sees it. We like to take a look at one of the most respected voices in sports and see where we agree or disagree. There are bound to be some movers and shakers with Alabama going down for a second time this season and a somewhat surprisingly undefeated Indiana team that is looking more and more like the real deal. Let’s take a look and see how Klatt’s rankings pan out.
10. Miami Hurricanes
Klatt’s Ranking Last Week: No. 10
What we think
Another week, another close call for the ‘Canes. Miami’s offense is putting up some big numbers thanks by in large to quarterback Cam Ward. But the defense is giving up points in droves at the same time. We think the Hurricanes are good enough to finish the regular season unblemished, but maybe not good enough to hang with the big boys just yet.
9. Indiana Hoosiers
Klatt’s Ranking Last Week: Unranked
What we think
I once heard an Indiana fan say “Football season is just something to get us through until basketball season.” Hoosier head coach Curt Cignetti wants to change that culture and he’s off to a great start in year one in Bloomington. He wins… just Google him. IU has rattled off six straight games of 40 or more points scored. However, they won’t play a ranked team until a visit to Columbus in late November. The Buckeyes better be ready for a dogfight because this Hoosier team full of James Madison transfers is eager to show they belong.
Klatt’s Ranking Last Week: Unranked
What we think
Tennessee is a talented football team, but sometimes they just lose interest. When focused the Vols can play with anyone in the country. They get a week off in Knoxville before Kentucky comes to town. We’ve already seen the Wildcats push Georgia to the brink and upset Ole Miss on the road. Tennessee would be wise not to overlook its neighbor to the north.
7. Clemson Tigers
Klatt’s Ranking Last Week: No. 6
What we think
The Clemson offense is humming. The defense had a little hiccup against Virginia this past week, but we still don’t see anyone in the ACC who will challenge the Tigers until the conference championship game.
Klatt’s Ranking Last Week: No. 8
What we think
Arkansas was a trendy pick to upset LSU this past weekend, but Brian Kelly had his boys ready to go and easily took care of the Razorbacks. Now the Tigers head to College Station where it seems Texas A&M may have turned things around. We’re not sure quarterback Garrett Nussmeier can carry this team, but he’s certainly exceeded expectations so far.
Klatt’s Ranking Last Week: No. 1
What we think
This game can humble you fast. Texas was riding high until an angry Georgia team came to town and dominated the Longhorns. It’s not a good look when your third-year starting quarterback is benched for part of a quarter. Texas had better not overlook Vanderbilt this weekend or the Commodores will be paying for a second field goal post this season.
4. Penn State Nittany Lions
Klatt’s Ranking Last Week: No. 4
What we think
Penn State was off this week and while the Nittany Lions haven’t looked great doing it, the fact remains this team is still undefeated. Penn State travels to Madison to take on a much improved Badger squad before heading back home to square off against Ohio State. We feel like James Franklin loses at least one of these next two games… maybe both.
3. Ohio State Buckeyes
Klatt’s Ranking Last Week: No. 2
What we think
Dropping Ohio State probably has more to do with how dominant Georgia looked at Texas than anything else. Simply put, the Buckeyes are still one of the most talented teams in all of college football and they’ll have their chance to prove it in the final six-game stretch.
Klatt’s Ranking Last Week: No. 3
What we think
Georgia took the paddle out and spanked Texas on its home turf. The Bulldogs dominated both lines of scrimmage which is what we expected coming into the season. The demise of Georgia was vastly overestimated after struggling against Kentucky and losing to Alabama. The Dawgs are alive and well and will be a tough out for any opponent.
Klatt’s Ranking Last Week: No. 2
What we think
Oregon will have its final test against a ranked opponent this Saturday when No. 20 Illinois comes to town. Not many are giving the Illini much of a chance, but Bret Bielema has a scrappy bunch. The Ducks should win, but it might be closer than the experts think.
Klatt’s Full Ranking
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This article originally appeared on Buckeyes Wire: Where is Ohio State in Joel Klatt’s latest rankings after second bye week?
