Cotton Bowl 2017: Five things to look forward to in USC vs Ohio State

If all else fails, expect a slug test

There’s plenty of ways that this game can turn out. The Trojans can find their strengths early and exert them throughout the game, and so could Ohio State. One other alternative, however, is that both quarterbacks struggle, which ultimately changes how both teams move forward through four quarters.

Those kind of adjustments will be able to be seen as soon as the first quarter, but if that is the case, that’s okay too — it’ll still be a great game. One of the most lovable things about the USC vs Ohio State match up is the fact that their respective running games are also exciting to watch.

In front of J.T. Barrett, the Buckeyes have a strong rushing attack from J.K. Dobbins. Dobbins leads the team in rushing yards and carries, and is averaging 7.5 yards per carry to go along with seven touchdowns.

Opposite him will be a true workhorse of a running back in Ronald Jones II. While Dobbins has ran for more than 1,300 yards, Jones II has out-rushed him by over 100 yards on the season. Jones II does have a lower average per carry, with his being 6.1, but he has more touchdowns than J.T. Barret and J.K. Dobbins combied.

Jones II has 18 scores so far on the season, while Barret and Dobbins have 17 put together.

Ohio State’s rushing offense is ranked 15th in the country, while USC lands at 36th best.