Ohio State is looking to avenge its overtime loss last year to Purdue, and the Boilermakers hope to not be just another stepping stone in Ohio State's pretty dominant overall season.
Ohio State's running game is overall probably the best in the Big Ten. With Braxton Miller at the quarterback position, the Buckeyes can run all over teams and Urban Meyer's offense only further amplifies that. His ability to run sets up big plays in the pass game for Devin Smith and the tight ends.
This is a really unfortunate season for the Buckeyes, when you consider. This is probably the best, most relaxed year they have had in quite some time, and there will be absolutely nothing to show for it at the end of the year, not even a mediocre bowl appearance. There is a great chance Ohio State will go into their late-season showdown with Michigan as an undefeated team, and in all honesty, that will be their bowl game.
Ohio State has a bit of a problem giving up big plays, but I think they will be able to hold Purdue in check and force some turnovers. The biggest issue here facing the Boilermakers is that they struggle with tackling, especially in the open field. That is going to be a huge advantage for Miller and the OSU running game.
I think the Buckeyes win this one big, and continue on their journey for a top five ranking. It's possible they could finish the season in the AP top two or three without even competing for a bowl. Their fate this season is reminiscent of USC last year, when the Trojans got extremely hot and were not able to compete in postseason play.
The future is bright for Ohio State, but unfortunately for them the cards are all falling into place in a year where they can't make it to a bowl game.