The Ohio State defense turned in a good enough performance to win the Fiesta Bowl – but self-evidently received no help. Defensive coordinator Greg Schiano primarily mixed cover 4 with cover 1. To keep Clemson off-balance, Schiano altered which safety would roll up and to the deep middle – depending on the Tigers’ alignment.

Ohio State accomplished its first mission in largely limiting Wayne Gallman and the Tigers’ base run game. The Ohio State interior generally controlled the line of scrimmage which, combined with well-timed secondary blitzes, often placed Clemson behind schedule.

The Buckeyes also largely negated Clemson’s vertical throws off play action.