Cotton Bowl Preview: Ohio State vs. Missouri

The setup for the Cotton Bowl goes something like this: Ohio State is likely bummed it’s not playing in a far more important game, while Mizzou should be hyped to be there after an outstanding season. In fact, Ohio State represents the highest-ranked opponent Missouri has faced in a bowl game since 1970. In other words, and while neither team would say such things out loud, one wants to be there, and the other one likely doesn’t. Of course, that’s far too simple, but this game certainly has that feeling.

Finishing at No. 7, Ohio State suffered just one loss, and unfortunately the season finale against Michigan not only provided their only blemish, but it bounced the Buckeyes right out of the CFP. Missouri, on the other hand, went an impressive 10-2 in the SEC, wrapping the season up at No. 9 and even going to toe to toe with Georgia in early November. The Tigers should be eager to show the world they belong in college football’s elite. A win against a perennial powerhouse would certainly do that, even if Ohio State’s motivation and roster could be a bit light.

That’s right, the roster. The Buckeyes biggest omission will be at the quarterback position, where starter Kyle McCord won’t be playing, opting for a transfer to Syracuse instead. That’s no small hole to fill either, as McCord, who was shaky at times, still passed for 3,170 yards and 24 touchdowns – all while throwing just six interceptions. Devin Brown, who threw just 22 passes this season, will likely be filling McCord’s slot, but there’s an outside chance true freshman Lincoln Kienholz gets the nod.

The Buckeyes are loaded with talent on both sides of the ball, but will that be enough when the biggest job on the field is handed to an inexperienced quarterback? There’s only one way to find out but rest assured Missouri will do their best to make whoever starts under center feel uncomfortable.  

Bud Parmalee’s Pick: Ohio State Moneyline +120

On the season, Missouri’s offense was amongst the best in the country, putting up an average of 34.1 points per game. But here’s where the rubber meets the road; whether McCord is under center for the Buckeyes or not might not matter, as it was Ohio State’s defense that carried the load this season. In fact, the Buckeyes only allowed an incredibly low 11 points per game this year.

Missouri’s lowest output of the season game against Georgia in a 30-21 loss. While Georgia had a stellar defense, it gave up almost one more touchdown per game than did the Buckeyes. With playmakers like WR Marvin Harrison Jr. and RB TreVeyon Henderson expected to play, perhaps the burden on whoever starts at quarterback will be lessened.  If Ohio State can simply get a “serviceable” output at the quarterback position, its defense should handle the rest. Despite the potential lack of motivation, this is also a game where big brother wants to keep little brother away from the block party. Against a dominant Buckeyes defense, Missouri will be held at bay in a game that should be close from start to finish.