Edge: Ohio State

Ohio State quarterback Todd Boeckman vs. MSU pass defense

Boeckman is ranked first in the Big Ten in passing efficiency, and he’ll be facing an MSU pass defense that has been suspect so far in conference play. With targets like wide receivers Brian Robiskie, who averages 90 receiving yards per game, and the emerging threat Brian Hartline, the MSU secondary will have its hands full.

Edge: Ohio State

MSU running backs vs. Ohio State run defense

This is where rankings can be deceiving. Ohio State’s No. 2 nationally ranked run defense is not nearly as legit as its impressive pass defense ranking. So far, they have faced teams with only meager running threats. This week they will get a true test from MSU’s ninth-ranked rush attack in the nation *- a deadly combo of Javon Ringer and Jehuu Caulcrick that has combined for nearly 250 yards of offense per game.

Edge: MSU

Ohio State running backs vs. MSU run defense

The Beanie and Mo Wells duo is like a watered down Caulcrick and Ringer show. Beanie’s got the horsepower, while Mo has the acceleration. The Buckeyes average nearly 200 rush yards per game, while MSU has been efficient at stopping the run, allowing only 100 yards per game. This one’s a toss-up.

Edge: Even

MSU wide receiver Devin Thomas vs. Ohio State cornerback Malcolm Jenkins

If you can avoid being distracted by Jim Tressel’s red sweater vest, this will be a matchup to keep your eyes glued on. Watching Thomas is like watching a wide receiver in a Madden video game — at least that’s how head coach Mark Dantonio sees it. Thomas will square off against Jenkins, a returning consensus All-Big Ten 6-foot-1, 202-pound cornerback. Jenkins is said to have great speed and is excellent at man-to-man coverage.

Edge: Even

Compiled by Jon Schultz