Podcast Summary: The Triple Option – Episode on Ohio State-Penn State Showdown, Heisman Rankings, Tyler Warren & CFB Week 10 Preview
Introduction
In this episode of The Triple Option, hosts Urban Meyer, Mark Ingram II, and Rob Stone delve into the dynamic and often chaotic landscape of college football. The discussion centers around the top five showdown between Ohio State and Penn State, the current Heisman Trophy rankings, the addition of Penn State's tight end Tyler Warren to the show, and a preview of Week 10's key matchups.
1. Ohio State's Performance and Offensive Line Issues
Urban Meyer opens the discussion by analyzing Ohio State's recent performance, particularly their disappointing offensive metrics. The Buckeyes have struggled with per-game rushing yards, registering only 64 yards on 31 carries (2.1 yards per carry) (03:05).
Urban Meyer:
"Big problems with the offense line... every team in the country has offensive line issues, every one of them." (04:34)
Meyer emphasizes the declining recruitment quality for offensive linemen, attributing it to the increasing specialization in high school camps that focus on skill positions like quarterback and wide receiver. He highlights the difficulty in finding versatile and strong linemen who can maintain mobility.
Mark Ingram echoes these sentiments, stressing the foundational role of the offensive and defensive lines in building a team’s identity and physicality.
Mark Ingram:
"Like you said, you don't have the guys up front, offensive line, defensive line, that's what you build your team on..." (05:53)
2. Penn State's Unbeaten Season and Quarterback Situation
Rob Stone shifts focus to Penn State, highlighting their unbeaten record (7-0) and recent resilience against Wisconsin despite a late quarterback injury. The starting quarterback, Drew Allers, exited the game with a knee injury, prompting Penn State to rely on backup Bo Prabula.
Mark Ingram:
"We should have walked out of Columbus with the win." (06:52)
The hosts discuss Penn State’s defensive strength and Ohio State’s offensive vulnerabilities, setting the stage for their upcoming clash.
3. Strategies and Adjustments by Ohio State
In response to the offensive line challenges, Urban Meyer outlines potential adjustments Ohio State might implement. He suggests simplifying the run game to one or two schemes and increasing the quarterback’s involvement to alleviate pressure on the offensive line.
Urban Meyer:
"Zone right, zone left, power right, power left... it's that simple." (09:22)
He also recommends incorporating more quarterback runs and ensuring quick decision-making from running backs to gain essential yards after contact.
4. Heisman Rankings Discussion
The conversation transitions to the Heisman Trophy race, with Mark Ingram advocating for Cam Ward, citing his pivotal role in Miami’s undefeated season and impressive statistics.
Mark Ingram:
"Cam Ward has 24 touchdowns, three rushing touchdowns, and the swagger that resonates through the entire team." (50:10)
Urban Meyer counters by naming Travis Hunter as his top Heisman contender, praising his dual-threat capabilities and exemplary character both on and off the field.
Urban Meyer:
"Travis Hunter is the best player in the game right now... he's a dog with the as prime says that he's a D man." (52:16)
5. Tyler Warren's Interview and Insights on Penn State's Offense
The highlight of the episode is an exclusive interview with Tyler Warren, Penn State’s standout tight end. Warren discusses the innovative strategies employed by head coach James Franklin, the collaborative nature of the offensive coaching staff, and his versatile role on the team.
Tyler Warren:
"We have 11 guys, each with a job on each play, and we can move around and do it in a lot of different ways." (33:22)
He elaborates on the implementation of unique plays like the "Kendall Tool" and his experience catching touchdown passes, showcasing his multifaceted contributions to the offense.
Urban Meyer:
"He's one of the best players on the team. If they told him to play linebacker, he'd do it." (34:22)
Warren also reflects on the intense atmosphere at Penn State’s Beaver Stadium and the importance of maintaining team culture and focus amid high-stakes games.
6. Week 10 Game Previews and Predictions
The trio provides a comprehensive preview of Week 10's key matchups:
-
Pittsburgh vs. SMU:
Rob Stone predicts an upset as SMU's high-scoring offense faces a Pittsburgh team struggling with quarterback injuries and turnovers. -
Florida vs. Georgia:
Despite Georgia’s top-ranked team, Stone favors Florida to cover the spread, acknowledging Florida’s recent resurgence under Coach Billy Napier. -
Oregon vs. Michigan:
Meyer expresses confidence in Oregon covering the spread against a beleaguered Michigan team, highlighting Oregon’s consistent improvement and Michigan’s offensive struggles. -
Ole Miss vs. Arkansas:
Stone anticipates an upset by Arkansas in rainy conditions, leveraging Arkansas’s strong defense and dynamic quarterback play. -
South Carolina vs. Texas A&M:
Mark Ingram opts for Texas A&M to win but also believes South Carolina will cover the spread in a tightly contested game. -
Ohio State vs. Penn State:
Meyer predicts Penn State will cover the three-and-a-half-point spread, emphasizing Ohio State’s offensive line issues and Penn State’s defensive prowess.
7. Conclusion
The episode wraps up with final thoughts on the upcoming games and a reminder of the show's live college football playoff ranking reactions scheduled for the following Tuesday. Hosts encourage listeners to engage via social media and subscribe to their channels for continued insights and discussions.
Urban Meyer:
"There's a lot of chaos this season, but we're here to navigate it together."
Rob Stone:
"Don't miss our live reaction to the college football playoff rankings."
Mark Ingram:
"Stay focused, do your job, and capitalize on opportunities when they present themselves."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
Mark Ingram (00:00):
"If I'm Nebraska, I am pissed off leaving that game. I have a sour taste in my mouth leaving that football game." -
Urban Meyer (03:05):
"Big problems with the offense line. But every team in the country has offensive line issues, every one of them." -
Mark Ingram (05:53):
"Like you said, you don't have the guys up front, offensive line, defensive line, that's what you build your team on." -
Tyler Warren (33:22):
"We have 11 guys, each with a job on each play, and we can move around and do it in a lot of different ways." -
Urban Meyer (52:16):
"Travis Hunter is the best player in the game right now... he's a dog with the as prime says that he's a D man."
Timestamps
For quick reference, here are some of the key timestamps mentioned in the summary:
- [00:00] – Initial frustrations from Mark Ingram
- [03:05] – Discussion on Ohio State's offensive line issues
- [05:53] – Emphasis on the importance of the offensive and defensive lines
- [09:22] – Ohio State’s potential offensive adjustments
- [33:22] – Tyler Warren on Penn State’s offensive strategies
- [50:10] – Mark Ingram on Heisman contender Cam Ward
- [52:16] – Urban Meyer on Travis Hunter as top Heisman candidate
Conclusion
This episode of The Triple Option offers an in-depth analysis of Ohio State and Penn State's current seasons, shedding light on tactical challenges and player performances. The addition of Tyler Warren provides exclusive insights into Penn State's offensive dynamics, while the Heisman discussion adds another layer of excitement for college football enthusiasts. Tune in every Wednesday for more expert commentary and game previews.
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