COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ryan Day has set a clear benchmark for his Ohio State offense this season: score touchdowns on 75% of red zone trips. It’s an ambitious goal that currently sits well out of reach, with the Buckeyes converting at just a 65% clip (ranking 62nd nationally) through the first month of the season.

But is this standard a realistic expectation for a championship-caliber team, or an arbitrary number that sets Ohio State up for unnecessary criticism?

The answer lies in understanding how the modern game has evolved, especially Ohio State’s approach this season. The Buckeyes are averaging just 60.3 plays per game – ranking 126th nationally out of 133 FBS programs. This methodical approach means every possession carries significantly more weight.

“So, they’re near the bottom in the

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