No. 9 Nebraska (7-1, 4-1 Big Ten)
at No. 6 Ohio State (7-1, 4-1), 8 p.m. (ABC)
Line: Ohio State by 15 1/2.
Series record: Ohio State leads 3-1.
WHAT’S AT STAKE
Two of Big Ten’s top teams are in the running for the conference title and a spot in the College Football Playoff, and a second loss for either will all but destroy those hopes. Nebraska is trying to avoid a second straight defeat, and Ohio State hopes to get its sputtering offense back on track after a narrow escape against Northwestern last week.
KEY MATCHUP
Nebraska QB Tommy Armstrong Jr. vs. Ohio State defense. Armstrong, who has scored seven TDs rushing and passed for 11, holds a slew of school records and is among the Big Ten’s offensive leaders. The Buckeyes, ranked sixth in the FBS in total defense, will need to tighten up after allowing 406 yards to Northwestern.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Nebraska: S Nate Gerry. With four interceptions this season — including two in the fourth quarter against Wisconsin last week — Gerry is within one pick of the Nebraska school record. He’s second on the team in total tackles with 50.
Ohio State: H-back Curtis Samuel. One of the team’s most dynamic playmakers, Samuel is utilized as a running back and a receiver. He’s compiled more than 1,100 all-purpose yards this season and scored eight touchdowns.
FACTS & FIGURES
Ohio State on Saturday will honor Sam Foltz, the Nebraska punter who was killed in a car accident in June at age 22. A plaque recognizing him will placed near the visitor’s locker room, and the OSU marching band will form “SF 27,” his initials and uniform number, on the field. …The Buckeyes will wear helmet stickers honoring former All-American offensive linemen John Hicks, who died last Saturday at 65 due to complications from diabetes. … Ohio State WR Parris Campbell is questionable for Saturday’s game with a sprained ankle. … Ohio State is 15-4 in night games at Ohio Stadium and has won 13 of its past 14 night games overall. … Armstrong needs 53 yards to become the Nebraska career leader in total offense. … Nebraska WR Jordan Westerkamp has caught a pass in 32 straight games, tied for the second-longest streak in school history.