In approximately 100 years since Frank Solich began coaching the Ohio Bobcats, the team has rarely not accomplished what is expected of it. The problem has been getting beyond that.
The Bobcats suffered an unexpected mid-season loss to Central Michigan, which has turned out to be a pretty good program in 2017-18. Ohio scored 40+ points in 3 straight wins after that, but a shaky defensive performance against the Miami Redhawks last weekend has ensured that the ‘Cats are ‘dogs at home this Wednesday against West division-leading Toledo.
The Rockets are unblemished save for a loss at Miami (Florida) in which they were leading a halftime. QB Logan Woodside is a wonder, with a chance to surpass 3000 yards passing against the Bobcats.
If each wins its division, this may not be the final time these schools play each other in ’17. But both teams are desperately seeking a win to stay in a commanding position in their respective races.
Who: Toledo Rockets at Ohio Bobcats
When: Wednesday, November 8th, 7 PM EST
Where: Peden Stadium, Athens, OH
Lines: Toledo (-3.5) at Ohio (+3.5) / O/U Total: (65)
Ohio beat Toledo 31-26 in 2016, behind a great team rushing effort and some timely defense. Nathan Roarke, a dual-threat sophomore, has since taken over at QB and excelled with accuracy and field smarts. Solich has been saddled with role-player quarterbacks before, so having a legit up-and-comer taking snaps has to feel like luxury.
The ‘Cats have been porous at times on defense, however, giving up mega-points to high-powered opposition and even allowing some patsies to pour it on. Against a winless UMass team, Ohio gave up 403 passing yards, another buck-fifty on the ground and 50 points, simply out-scoring the Minutemen for the victory.
That won’t wash on Wednesday. Toledo beat Ball State by 41 points on 10/26, but last week’s 27-17 win over tough Northern Illinois was more impressive. Woodside threw for 390 to become the school’s leading all-time passer, RB Terry Swanson rushed for 100+ yards and 3 touchdowns, and the defense intercepted Marcus Childers twice.
We’re liking the Rockets to cover and win by at least a touchdown. Toledo is a stronger, deeper team than Ohio in all 3 phases (Jameson Vest is 3 of 3 on 40+ yard field goal attempts) and will conquer in Athens despite the discipline and resolve of another excellent Frank Solich team.