Ohio State better not sleep on the 'Cats

Ohio State’s non-conference schedule isn’t what it normally is. There’s not the big intersectional game that all fans tend to look forward to. In years’ past its been games against Texas, Oklahoma, USC, Washington, etc. that have been the staple, big-time matchup to point to.

The Big Ten slate is another story — especially in the last few seasons. This year, with games at Northwestern, Nebraska and Michigan, and home contests versus Michigan State, Penn State and Wisconsin, it won’t be an easy road.

#Bearcats up 11 spots to #27 https://t.co/iWjKuF6Yzw

— Cincinnati ? (@CincyProblems) September 3, 2019

UC’s solid grouping will test OSU.

But it’s not one of those that ESPN pegs as the game to beware. No, instead it’s the game against the Cincinnati Bearcats on September 7 that has Dan Murphy concerned. Here’s what he says about the contest.

Are the Bearcats the toughest team on Ohio State’s schedule? No. But former Buckeye Luke Fickell will still have more head-coaching appearances in the Horseshoe than Ryan Day when this game kicks off. Fickell will be bringing a very solid group with him to try to upset a young Ohio State team that has a lot to figure out before this legitimate test early in September.

"We can play with anybody in the country" #Bearcats pic.twitter.com/98HyytsHlx

— Bearcats Nation (@GoBearcatsUC) August 21, 2019

Maybe Murphy is right, and certainly Fickell would love to make a statement by beating his Alma Mater, but for me, there’s a whole landmine full of conference games that will be more of a test than what we’ll see the Bearcats offer inside the ‘Shoe.