Marshall vs. Ohio Prediction, Game Preview
Marshall vs. Ohio prediction and game preview. Will the Thundering Herd build off its first win over a Big Ten team, or can the Bobcats remain undefeated?
The Marshall Thundering Herd travels to the Ohio Bobcats, looking to build off its win over Purdue. We analyze which team will remain unbeaten in the Marshall vs. Ohio prediction and game preview.
Marshall vs. Ohio Prediction & Preview
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Broadcast
Date: Saturday, September 12
Game Time: 7:00 ET
Network: ESPN3
Why You Need To Care
Slammed for a soft schedule in 2014, Marshall made the most of Sunday’s visit from Purdue, beating the Big Ten team, 41-31. In the wide-open Conference USA, it was the Herd’s first opportunity to proclaim that roster turnover won’t extinguish hopes for back-to-back league titles. An experienced—and underrated—Ohio squad began its 2015 bowl drive by beating Idaho, 45-28, on the road.
Why Marshall Will Win
Even in the wake of QB Rakeem Cato’s graduation, the Herd is going to score points. New QB Michael Birdsong has a game in the bank—and a terrific supporting cast that includes powerful RB Devon Johnson. And even the secondary got in the act during the Purdue win, producing a pair of Tiquan Lang pick-sixes. Marshall has better athletes than Ohio.
Why Ohio Will Win
The Bobcats are an experienced team, both on the staff with Frank Solich and on both sides of the ball. After watching the film of the new-look Marshall defense, which allowed 454 yards to Purdue, Ohio will like its chances of springing QB Derrius Vick and the running backs.
Player Who Matters
Vick will have to contend with Lang, but also the rest of a Herd defensive backfield that produced four interceptions and five breakups in Week 1. Marshall closes quickly, so it’ll be up to Vick to check down when needed and resist the temptation to force the ball into tight windows.
What’s Going To Happen?
Marshall is flying high after beating a Big Ten team. And the Herd will be even steadier now that all of the new starters have that important opener behind them. Marshall’s speed will get the better of Ohio’s muscle in a competitive game that won’t be decided until the final few minutes.
Marshall vs. Ohio Score Prediction
Drum roll, please … the Marshall vs. Ohio prediction is …
Final Score: Marshall 34, Ohio 28
Must See Rating: 5: Ferrell Takes the Field – 1: A Walk in The Woods … 2
