The Big Ten has taken a national beating this year, thanks mostly to Michigan's struggles, but Ohio State has a chance Saturday afternoon to restore some of the conference's luster by beating Washington in Seattle.
The Buckeyes, -3 at WagerWeb.com for this game, haven't been that impressive themselves in beating Youngstown State and Akron. So, even though OSU brings the nation's top-ranked defense into this game, that must come with an asterisk considering the competition.
The Ohio State defense is led by linebacker James Laurinaitis, the Nagurski Award winner as the top defensive player in the country last season, and has allowed eight points and no touchdowns through two games, the team's fewest points allowed through two weeks since 1996.
However, the Buckeyes' offense had five turnovers last week against Akron. Todd Boeckman is replacing Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith at quarterback and has been a bit uneven.
"We're kind of a work in progress, more so on offense," Ohio State coach Jim Tressel said.
Washington looks revived under former Notre Dame coach Ty Willingham. The Huskies routed Syracuse in their opener and then upset Boise State last week, 24-10.
"It's a statement game for both teams. Washington is back on track, with coach Willingham. This is a huge game for both teams, both programs - both conferences seven," Ohio State defensive tackle Doug Worthington said.
Jake Locker has been impressive under center for Washington, leading UW to its first 2-0 start since 2001. Last week's win over Boise State was the program's first over a ranked team since Willingham took over in 2005.
"This is their saving game," Ohio State center Jim Cordle said. "This is a game that they can all of a sudden be on a pedestal nationally. They can show who they are."
The Buckeyes have won 15 in a row against unranked teams and have lost only once in their past 22 games - that national title game shellacking against Florida.
"The time is now," said Huskies senior cornerback Roy Lewis.
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