TRUTH IN ADVERTISING

Ever seen packaging at the store that says "New and Improved?"  Watch out!  That language is designed to get you to buy the product perhaps without bothering to see why it is "New" and/or "Improved." 

This can be deceiving, however.  Often "New and Improved" simply means the same product in a smaller package.  12.8 ounces of your favorite "New and Improved" breakfast cereal for the same price as the "Old" 14 ounce box.  Leaves you feeling a bit empty.

That's the same feeling I'm left with regarding the Buckeye offense this season.  I spent the summer reading about the Shotgun, the Pistol (with Beanie Wells next to the QB) and even the Pony (Beanie Wells and Brandon Saine in the same backfield) offensive formations.  Robiske and Hartline will bring speed and sure hands to the party as well.  

"It's going to be a wide open approach" we were assured by the coaches.  "We've got to spread the ball around to all the talent we have," they said.  The Buckeyes will have so much offensive firepower, I dreamed, that opposing defenses will be in awe as we roll up yards and put up touchdowns.  Tim Tebow beware!     

Now, two-thirds through the season, all that kind of talk reminds me of "New and Improved."  We do see the Shotgun quite often.  That's primarily because the QB needs a head start to dodge the oncoming defensive rush.  We have seen the Pistol a few times but the Pony is missing in action (as is, strangely, Brandon Saine). 

Our "New and Improved" offense after the Penn State loss has failed to score a touchdown in 3 different games.  Looks like 12.8 ounces of offense for the price of 14 to me.  And an offense that's destined to find itself in the Outback Bowl along with the rest of Buckeye Nation.

GO BUCKS.  YEA OHIO.