Fulton Analysis: A path forward

The Ohio State offense took an important step forward in defeating Army 38-7. The Buckeyes’ newfound offensive efficiency was enabled by Ohio State’s belated embrace of run-pass options under new offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson.

Army deployed a strategy similarly used by other Buckeye opponents. The Black Knights used a 3-4 defense, keeping both edge defenders overhanging the offensive tackles to play the run and bringing one safety up at the snap to account for the quarterback read, all backed up by a soft cover 3.

Although such defensive schemes have previously caused Ohio State problems, on Saturday, Wilson and Urban Meyer had a different strategy. Nearly every called run play was paired with a pass option. Quarterback J.T. Barrett would read an unblocked edge defender to first decide whether to give the run or keep. He then determines whether to run or throw based on whether an unblocked alley defender comes up to play the quarterback run or stays in coverage.

Run-pass options were importantly not limited to tight zone – where Ohio State often sent a wide receiver in fly or orbit motion to obtain a three on two numbers’ advantage.