Drew Thurman (5:28 pm)

For the first time in three years, Buckeye fans finally have something to cheer about in the offseason. After the 26-17 win over Oregon in the Rose Bowl Friday night, we all can finally start putting the big game blues behind us. It would be easy to get so caught up in redemption and finally shutting the media up, that we lose sight of how impressive of a victory it really was for the Buckeyes. For the first time this season, maybe since 2006, Ohio State finally showcased their big three; quarterback play, defense, and coaching. Let's take a look...
 
Quarterback Play: 

Pryor finally showcased the maturity that had been lacking all season long, especially in his decision making. He completed 22 of 37 passes for 266 yards and two touchdowns, while only throwing one interception. He also added 72 big rushing yards, showcasing his dual-threat ability. What was even more impressive was the wide array of throws he was able to make. He completed everything from deep passes to short slants, and of course extended plays in a way only he can. Maybe the most impressive play of the game was his 13 yard touchdown pass to Saine on the opening drive. Pryor scanned the field, moved slightly away from the pressure, and delivered the ball to Saine on the sideline for the touchdown. It was the start of something great in the Rose Bowl, and it showed patience and maturity in Pryor. That sort of play had been missing all year long.    

Defense:

The "silver bullet" defense has been on display all season long, but maybe no performance was more impressive than in the Rose Bowl. Not only did Oregon bring in one of the best offenses in the entire country, but they played a style of football that the Buckeyes have struggled with in recent years. This time though the Buckeyes dominated with speed, power, and discipline. The Ducks only managed 260 total yards on 12 first downs, and were only 2 of 11 on third down. 

This unit has been under the radar all season long, and hopefully the Rose Bowl proved how incredible they have been all year long. 

Coaching: 

No offense to Chip Kelly, because I think he is an incredible coach, but he got outcoached by Jim Tressel. The Buckeyes came in with the better game plan, and knew what the Ducks were going to do on both sides of the ball. Pryor made this clear after the game:

"Coach did a great job of game-planning. We knew them up and down. We knew everything they were going to do. When they were coming with their blitzes, I just wanted to come out and show the world that I could be a complete quarterback."

So, it's nice to see Tressel get the monkey off of his back. I understand he has struggled in big games recently, but he has not received the credit he deserves for how consistent the Buckeyes have been. I know that while I have never thrown Tressel under the bus, this season has frustrated me a lot personally (check out the archives). With that said, it was amazing to see Tressel show once again why he has made Ohio State a top tier team. I have a feeling that 2010 could look a lot like 2006. Who knows?

So about 2010...

Let's hope this formula becomes the norm next season. If the Buckeyes can once again combine quarterback play, defense, and coaching they will once again be a national championship team. I know that sounds incredibly simplistic (and it is), but it has been a long time since these three things were visible for the Buckeyes. We all know the defense will do its part in 2010, let's hope Tressel and Pryor come out in the same way they did on January 1st.