We’ve heard the excitement and the discuss Notre Dame coming to Columbus to tackle Ohio State, however now now we have actual, stay rankings to substantiate that the matchup can be a giant sport environment.
In case you missed it, the preseason USA TODAY Sports activities AFCA Coaches Ballot was launched on Monday and the Buckeyes checked in about the place anticipated, at No. 2. Past that although, the Preventing Irish even have a excessive ranking subsequent to their identify at No. 5, which means the showdown in prime time can be a top-five affair at the very least in response to one of many two main polls.
And there are storylines abounding.
At first, it’s an enormous, titanic conflict in week one once we solely suppose we all know concerning the two groups. It may go a good distance in the direction of one of many two historic faculty soccer behemoths getting some momentum in the direction of the School Soccer Playoff., or it may simply be a footnote to the season.
Apart from that although, new Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman, in addition to one in all his assistants, former Buckeye linebacker nice, James Laurinaitis, can be main the Golden Domers into the stadium they used to hone their craft in. It is going to little doubt be a bizarre and surreal feeling strolling into the ‘Shoe with a unique staff, trying to ship followers of their alma mater residence in a depressed and dejected state.
Much more, Freeman has stated some controversial issues about Ohio State through the offseason, so you possibly can anticipate his welcome in entrance of Buckeye Nation to be lower than nice. You’ll be able to most likely additionally queue up imply and hateful indicators that can make an look on ESPN’s School GameDay set earlier than the sport. Sure, Herbie and crew will be readily available for the matchup as effectively.
However hey, Ohio State taking matching up in opposition to a top-five opponent doesn’t occur fairly often. Actually, the final time was in 1986 when the No. 9 Buckeyes misplaced to No. 5 Alabama, 16-10.
“I don’t need to hype it up an excessive amount of,” OSU receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba stated at a media discussion board. “The hype goes to be there.”
So yeah, it’s a giant one, but it surely’s now even larger primarily based on each groups’ preseason rating. At the very least for now.
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