After just 3 games last season, Ohio looks for success in 2021 in the 17th year of Frank Solich’s regime. The Bobcats have been incredibly successful under Solich, 115-82, 4 MAC East Titles, and 11 bowl game appearances make him an extremely established coach over in Athens, Ohio. Dino Babers and Solich know each other pretty well, as Babers served as the head coach of Bowling Green from 2014-2015. This will be an exciting game, don’t expect a blowout. Syracuse will of course be favored to win, but with its recent production, don’t be so sure that the Orange will have this in the bag.
Let’s meet a couple key players that this Bobcats team has to offer:
Running Back РDe’Montre Tuggle #24
Tuggle had a choice whether he wanted to come back for his senior season or forego it. Obviously, he’s back with the team, which is huge fo0r this offense, as it is heavily geared toward running the ball. In the three games Ohio played, Tuggle took 53 carries compared to just 54 passes thrown by this offense. Tuggle had a solid 2019, serving as the 3rd rushiing option. The 5-10 198 lbs back ran for 644 yards and muscled in 11 touchdowns on the ground, 1 through the air. Tuggle could prove problematic for the Orange come September, we all know how shaky SU’s run defense has been, if that linebacking core hasn’t improved it could be interesting.
Wide Receiver – Isaiah Cox #6
Listed as a redshirt senior, Cox will be in his 4th season with Ohio. With Shane Hooks having transferred away, Cox will really be the only option in the passing game. Opposing defenses will most likely benefit from that knowledge, but whether or not it slows Cox down is still up in the air. In 2019, Cox was the number option, caught the most passes, yet only found the endzone twice. He still led the team in receiving yards with 663, which is formidable, but surely he has something to prove this season, in what will be his final year.
Game Facts:
Date: September 4th, 2021
Location: Peden Stadium, Athens, Ohio
Where Can I Watch: CBS Sports Network
This is a game the Orange should ultimately come away from with a win, but after last season’s misery, there’s no telling what could happen in 2021.
