This offense had been set to 2nd gear for most of the season.
It was widely believed to be deliberate, as the Buckeyes cruised through roughly 42 of 48 quarters en route to 12 wins with minimal anxiety. Ohio State rode the brakes for three months and it didn't cost them a thing.
This defense was as good as any we've ever seen in Columbus. That meant the guys the offense practiced against during the week were better than the guys they would face on Saturdays.
Also, it still hasn't allowed 17 points in a game.