Overreaction

I've been accused on more than one occasion of taking college football too seriously.  I try to explain that I am not taking the game too seriously, but instead just have a deep passion for the game.  I understand the difference between losing a game and battling cancer.  The players are not "Soldiers."  A loss does not mean the coaches or players need to be fired or benched.  Like most things in life, a bit of perspective helps create understanding.

Many blogs, pundits and fans have looked at Ohio State's close game against Ohio University yesterday and determined Tressel's awful and the players terrible.  Leaving the game aside for a second, how many of the critics put in the time, effort, sweat, endurance, pain and practive to win yesterday's game? Exactly.  Zero.

As a former player and current coach, I can assure everyone that no one feels worse or is more critical of a performance than the players and coaches themselves.  They are the ones putting in the hours and training to make the season successful, not us.  As Ohio State fans, we get to enjoy the fruits of their labor.  As pundits, you get to watch these 18-23 year olds perform a game that we all love and speak critically of their performance.  As writers, you cover a sport and write critically about players that you would take exception to if written about you or your family.  I'm not saying you have to only say or write kind things because I understand your jobs depend on you being a bit critical, and I agree that often a performance does deserve a good kick on the back side.  I just think a little balance is necessary. Give the players and coaches a break for a bad performance.  I am positive you've had one.

As for yesterday's game against the Bobcats, I enjoyed it.  I have felt that the Buckeyes have not had enough challenges during the regular season for the last two years.  This team certainly has character and plenty of talent, but yesterday's game will strengthen their resolve to stay focused on each game.  As the hunted, you cannot just show up and win.  Michigan fell prey to this last season.  Take a cue from our mortal enemy - take no team lightly and play each down with passion, pride, focus and discipline.

Game Balls:

ECU - second straight victory over a ranked opponent

Georgia - big win over the MAC Champion.  This is a better win than most will give credit.

Oklahoma - convincing win over a strong Cincinnati team

Penn State - huge distractions during the week, huge victory on Saturday against Oregon State.