Offensive coordinators must be judicious in exposing quarterbacks to extra hits, but read-option has traction in the NFL

BEREA, Ohio -- NFL defensive minds went back to college in the offseason to find ways to counter a read-option offense so effective in Washington, Seattle and San Francisco.

Several coaches traveled to Stanford University to meet with defensive coordinator Derek Mason and discuss how to deal with dual-threat quarterbacks, Sports Illustrated reported last month. The Cardinal, which employs a pro-style 3-4 front, enjoyed a strong season highlighted by a 17-14 win over Chip Kelly and the Oregon Ducks.

The emergence of the read-option was one of NFL’s biggest storylines last season with quarterbacks Robert Griffin III, Russell Wilson and Colin Kaepernick leading their teams to the playoffs. Defensive coordinators were unprepared to deal with a college offense. But with an entire offseason to break down film and design schemes, coaches feel more confident in their approach.

“I think it's the flavor of the day,” Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin told reporters at the NFL owners meetings in March. “We will see if it's the flavor of the year. We’ll see if (coaches) are committed to getting their guys hit.”

Tomlin’s point about potential injury is valid, especially with the way Griffin’s season ended a year ago. But don’t expect the read-option to go the way of the Wildcat. NFL defenses are becoming too quick and high school and college programs are producing an increasing number of dual-threat quarterbacks. It’s part of the game’s evolution.

The classic pocket passer will continue to dominate the landscape, particularly with rules aimed at protecting quarterbacks. There’s also nimble-footed Andrew Luck who has some John Elway qualities to his game.

But there’s room for the read-option in the NFL providing offensive coordinators and quarterbacks are judicious in its application. Teams aren’t exposing their highest-paid players to 30 hits a game. Quarterbacks must carry the ball only enough to keep defenses honest.

The read-option is not a flavor that’s coming off the NFL menu board any time soon.

Nick Swisher hit a grand slam in the eighth inning of the Tribe's rout of Mets. Indians begin Saturday two games back in wild-card chase.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – In June 2002, the New York Mets selected an 18-year-old lefty out of Cypress Falls (Tex.) High School with the 15th overall pick.

That lefty never has pitched for the Mets. Friday night at Progressive Field, he faced them for the first time -- and had himself a party.

Scott Kazmir struck out 12 in six scoreless innings as the Indians cruised to an 8-1 victory. The Tribe scored runs in the first, second, fifth and sixth, then Nick Swisher brought home four with a blast in the eighth.

The Indians (75-65) have won three in a row and four of five to remain in the thick of the wild-card chase. They and Baltimore pulled within two games of the second wild card when Eric Wedge's Mariners defeated the Rays late Friday night in Seattle.

The not-so-amazin' Mets slipped to 63-76.

"It seems like we're doing the right things at the right time,'' Swisher said. "I wasn't here last year, but going from a team that lost close to 100 games (68-94) to the atmosphere we have now is tremendous. We're super-, super-confident about our chances. We're not out of this.''

Kazmir (8-7, 4.17 ERA) allowed four hits and did not walk a batter. He threw 72 of 97 pitches for strikes. He repeatedly challenged with mid-90s fastballs, and Mets batters kept flailing. He mixed in a nasty changeup.

Kazmir was coming off an August in which he went 1-3 with a 5.40 ERA in five starts and mentioned arm and body fatigue. Having hit a "wall'' was understandable given that he did not pitch in the majors last season. Kazmir, though, said earlier in the week that he might be getting a second wind.

• Mets-Indians boxscore | Scoreboard | Standings

It certainly appeared as if order had been restored against New York, which traded Kazmir to Tampa Bay in July 2004. It likely was no coincidence that Kazmir's fastball, in particular, featured so much life.

"I think he was a little jazzed up, yeah,'' Indians manager Terry Francona said of his pitcher's mindset for his first start against the organization that drafted him. "However guys do it -- whether it's the chicken or whatever -- I don't care. As long as it's not against the law.''

The Kazmanian Devil downplayed the obvious storyline.

Kazmir, who has 131 strikeouts in 136 innings of 25 starts this season, struck out the side in the first, third and sixth. He became the first major leaguer with a start of six or fewer scoreless innings, 12-plus strikeouts and zero walks since the Rangers' Matt Perisho on Oct. 3, 1999, at Anaheim, Calif.

The Indians signed Kazmir, who pitched in the Atlantic League and Puerto Rican Winter League last year, to a minor-league contract in January. He made the club as the fifth starter.

"As soon as I found out that we picked him up, the first person I called was Tito,'' Swisher said of Francona. "I said, 'Hey, man, give me his number, because I want to call and let him know how excited I am. He was pretty much playing catch in his backyard last year, and now he's going out throwing 95, 96, and really just dominating games. I could not be happier that we have him over here.''

With the 16th overall pick in 2002, the Oakland Athletics selected Swisher out of Ohio State.

"We always joke about that,'' Swisher said.

Swisher's eighth career slam came off lefty Tim Byrdak.

"I think that will go a long way toward helping Swish relax a little bit,'' Francona said. "He's been trying so hard. Sometimes, guys grind too hard.''

Swisher is hitting .239 with 16 homers and 50 RBI in 124 games. The Tribe is 12-4 when he goes deep.

The Indians loaded the bases with none out in their half. They managed just one run. Michael Bourn singled off quality young righty Zack Wheeler (7-4, 3.38) and moved to second on Swisher's single. Jason Kipnis walked. Carlos Santana, who entered the at-bat in an 0-for-12 skid, didn't snap it – but he did deliver a sacrifice fly to center.

Wheeler struck out Jason Kubel swinging and got Asdrubal Cabrera to pop to third in foul territory. After Kubel chased a high fastball, ESPN baseball analyst Keith Law decided to weigh in, tweeting: "Kubel's only shot to hit that fastball would have required starting his swing last week.'' Tribe fans did not take kindly to Law's cracking of newcomer Kubel.

The Indians made it 2-0 in the second. With one out, Lonnie Chisenhall walked. Drew Stubbs grounded to third, where Wilmer Flores fielded cleanly but threw wide of first. Chisenhall scooted to third, earning a fist-pound from third-base coach Brad Mills. Bourn hit a sacrifice fly to right.

Mets catcher Travis d'Arnaud erased Stubbs attempting to steal – at least according to second-base umpire Paul Emmel. Stubbs entered with a 15-of-16 efficiency.

When Kazmir struck out the side in the third, he stranded two (hit by pitch, single). He fanned designated hitter Josh Satin to keep runners at first and second. It was Kazmir's seventh punch-out.

The Mets threatened in the fifth. Juan Lagares led off with an infield single. With one out, Lagares advanced to third when Tribe catcher Yan Gomes threw wildly to first in an effort to keep him close. Kazmir struck out Flores swinging at a premium four-seamer and got Eric Young Jr. to ground to short.

Santana snapped the 0-for-12 with a two-out single up the middle in the fifth. Stubbs, who had stolen second easily, scored to give the Tribe a 3-0 lead.

When Kazmir struck out the side in the sixth, he pumped fastballs past Daniel Murphy, Satin and Andrew Brown.

The Indians created a four-run cushion with Lonnie Chisenhall's RBI double in the sixth. The Mets broke through in the seventh when Justin Turner homered off Cody Allen.

If Mets names don't sound familiar, that's to be expected: The club is injured and building for next year and beyond. Among the missing is terrific third baseman David Wright. New York's lineup against Kazmir featured eight players with fewer than 30 RBI.

Though Urban Meyer seemed more pleased with Ohio State's 42-7 win over San Diego State on Saturday than he did with the previous week's win, it is important to always understand that Ohio State's coach is always going to want more.

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Even after Ohio State scored 40 points in its season opener a week ago, Urban Meyer wanted more. This is supposed to be a national championship-caliber team, and Meyer isn’t afraid to hold the Buckeyes to that standard.

Fast-forward seven days, and Meyer seemed to be more pleased after No. 3 Ohio State beat San Diego State 42-7 without quarterback Braxton Miller, who suffered a knee sprain in the first quarter and didn’t return. But not pleased enough. 

Much will be said about backup quarterback Kenny Guiton, who came in and led Ohio State beautifully in Miller’s absence. Guiton finished the game 19-for-28 with 152 yards and two touchdowns passing, and the senior added 87 yards rushing and a 44-yard touchdown scamper, the longest run of his career.

But what’s typical Meyer is the demand for more. And though Ohio State scored 42 points and racked up 445 yards of total offense – all with a backup quarterback on the field – the coach thinks the Buckeyes can do better.

Take wide receiver Philly Brown for example. Meyer met with Brown during the week to urge the wide receiver to be more active in making plays.

After Brown led the team with 73 receiving yards and two touchdowns, he seemed to answer the call. But Meyer still opted to focus on what he’d like to see from his receivers moving forward.

“The thing we’re not good at is the little nails and screens where we’ve had players that turn those little things into big things,” Meyer said. “And we’re not doing a very good job of that right now, so our challenge will be to work on that. There’s too much dancing around with (Brown) and Devin Smith.

“And (we) gotta break a tackle once in a while. It took (Brown) about six games to figure that out last year. So that’s an area we’re not strong at yet right now.”

The players have adjusted to that, though. Brown knows his coach demands excellence, and he credits Meyer for his progression as a wide receiver. Oh, and the team's overall progression. 

“He wants a lot out of us,” Brown said, “but that’s why we get better. I don’t think we’ll ever hear him be satisfied. Coach Meyer always expects more from his players, but I think that’s a good thing.” 

BEDFORD, Ohio - Quarterback Kyle McSweeny passed for 223 yards and two touchdowns Saturday to lead Trinity past Rhodes at Bedford Bearcat Stadium. Antonio Capasso paced the Trojans with 76 yards rushing and a first-quarter touchdown. Griffin Filippi and Matt Iacobucci added touchdowns for Trinity, while Cory Haire led the way with 78 receiving yards and a score.

BEDFORD, Ohio - Quarterback Kyle McSweeny passed for 223 yards and two touchdowns Saturday to lead Trinity past Rhodes at Bedford Bearcat Stadium.

Antonio Capasso paced the Trojans with 76 yards rushing and a first-quarter touchdown. Griffin Filippi and Matt Iacobucci added touchdowns for Trinity, while Cory Haire led the way with 78 receiving yards and a score.

Rhodes WR David Egan totaled 59 yards receiving.

Contessa Leigh captured her second straight Ohio Sires Stakes championship at Scioto Downs on Saturday night, trotting to a wire-to-wire victory in the $150,000 championship for three-year-old fillies.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Contessa Leigh was the brightest Buckeye star on Saturday night as Scioto Downs hosted eight $150,000 Ohio Sires Stakes championships for two- and three-year-old trotters and pacers on its 16-race Ohio Super Night program.

A three-year-old daughter of Full Count, Contessa Leigh trotted to her second straight OSS championship with a smooth wire-to-wire victory with Chip Noble at the reins. She was undefeated in OSS action this year, and has won 13 of 16 starts in her career for owner-trainer Marty Wollam of Vienna, Ohio, and co-owner G & B Racing.

The homebred filly won last year's $100,000 two-year-old filly trotting championship at Scioto Downs.

Contessa Leigh ($2.10) was never challenged in the mile, her eighth victory in nine starts this year. Her only loss was in an open trot at The Meadows in Washington, Pa. Diplomats Finish was more than three lengths back at the wire, with Tt’s Megapixel third.

Favored Igottafeelinfran took the early lead among the three-year-old pacing fillies, and driver Dan Noble kept her on top the rest of the way, posting a 1 1/2-length win in 1:53.3 to beat Two Friskie and Pink Camo. It was the fifth win in 14 starts this year for Igottafeelinfran ($2.20).

Final Breath was an easy five-length winner among the three-year-old trotting colts, taking his 9th victory in a dozen starts with trainer Hugh Beatty in the sulky. Final Breath ($2.10) trotted a 1:56.1 mile. Heza Rube was second, with Annie's Rocketman third.

Feelin Lika Winner won a duel with favored That Friskie Feeling, passing him in the final turn to pace to a four-length victory among the three-year-old colts. Driven by Kayne Kaufmann, it was the fourth win in 11 starts this season for Feelin Lika Winnner ($8.40). Phantom Flasher and River Valley Pearl moved up to take second and third.

The two-year-olds were first behind the starting gate, and there weren’t many early surprises.

In the first Ohio Sires Stakes championship of the night, heavily favored In The Grippers continued her domination of the two-year-old trotting fillies, winning her sixth of seven career starts with Chris Page in the sulky. In The Grippers ($3.60) was a wire-to-wire winner after top rival Turbochargedroxie broke stride early, an easy eight-length winner in 1:58. Rose Run Princess finished second and Maes Perfect Storm was third.

Dan Noble guided Shakin Friskie ($6.20) to a 3/4-length length victory in 1:56.1 against the freshman pacing fillies, exploding in the stretch to pace from third to a victory, her fifth in 10 starts this season. Spiffy Sam was second, followed by R spunky Girl.

Rompaway Galaxy has been almost unbeatable among the two-year-old trotting colts in OSS prelims, and the bay gelding couldn’t be stopped in the championship. Mike Micallef reined Rompaway Galaxy ($2.80) to his seventh win in eight starts in 1:57.4 for a 1 1/14-length margin over Soul Train, with Hooray for Willie finishing third.

Chance I Might paced to the only upset among the two-year-olds, as the freshman colt chased down leader early leader Big Bossman with a hot half-mile in 56.4 seconds, and couldn’t be caught. Driven by Brad Hanners, Chance I Might ($16.60) covered the mile in 1:55.3 for his third win in seven starts, the fastest of his career. Uf Fast Feelin was second, with Player’s King third.  

When Miller's helmet flew off on the play on which he got hurt, teammates at first thought it could be more serious.

COLUMBUS, Ohio - There could be some awkwardness when Kenny Guiton and Braxton Miller both wind up in New York at the Heisman Trophy ceremony.

“I think that would be very weird, yeah,” Ohio State's backup quarterback said Saturday when the scenario was suggested.

It, of course, is crazy talk. After Ohio State's 42-7 smooth win over San Diego State, it was fine for Ohio State fans to think a little crazy. Because Miller went down and everything was just fine. Miller sprained his left knee, and Urban Meyer said, “I think there's a chance he'll be ready next week.”

When Miller first went down on a fourth-down run on the Buckeyes' first drive of the game, that seemed unlikely. Especially because it looked like Miller's head popped off. Cutting upfield while converting the fourth-and-1, Miller's helmet was sandwiched between the helmets of two Aztec defenders. The helmet went flying and the quarterback went down.

“When I saw his helmet fly off, I was like, 'Oh, man,'” center Corey Linsley said. “At that point it hasn't hit yet that we'll be OK with Kenny. It was kind of one of those knee-bucklers, like, 'Oh, man, is this guy all right?' I wanted to go over and console him, but I've got to give him some space.”

“I did see his helmet flew off and the guy hit him in the face,” Guiton said. “I wasn't sure how bad it was at first.”

Miller was on his back with his hand on his head as trainers reached him. He walked off the field under his own power, gave coach Urban Meyer a low-five, then slowly walked to the training table, where he was lying on his back as trainers checked him out. And then they started looking at his knee.

Ohio State quarterback Braxton Miller on the sidelines in the second half after he was knocked out of the game with a knee injury on the Buckeyes' first drive against San Diego State.Marvin Fong, The Plain Dealer

Miller was carted from the sidelines to the locker room, but he went sitting up in the front seat of the cart. That seemed like a good sign. He then returned to the sidelines in the second quarter with a large brace on his left knee. Meyer said the starter could have returned if necessary, but the Buckeyes were comfortable with the backup.

Miller was still hanging around at the edge of the offensive huddle before new series for a while, chatting with Meyer. By the second half, he was wearing a baseball cap and clearly done.

“It kind of hurts when you see Braxton go down,” linebacker Ryan Shazier said. “For me, I feel like we're close. We used to be roommates. So when I see Braxton down, it hurts me inside. But I feel like a lot of people – with Kenny Guiton in the game, nobody's worried.”

Last week, Miller spoke with reporters after a win over Buffalo, then passed out autograph cards to fans before getting into a car to be driven out of Ohio Stadium, the last Buckeye to depart. In this game, Miller was out after seven plays and within the first three minutes.

He finished 2 of 2 for 30 yards, while running once for five yards on the play that knocked him out. Though it sounds like he should be fine, his Heisman chances took a hit. Maybe neither Ohio State quarterback will wind up in New York. It's still way early.

But after watching Miller's helmet fly off, the Buckeyes not only trusted Guiton, but had to be glad Miller should have his chance to be back soon.

LAKEWOOD, Ohio - Andrew Dowell rushed for 55 yards and two touchdowns and Brett Kean tossed three touchdown passes to lead No. 2 St. Edward past visiting Akron Buchtel Saturday in a nonconference game at First Federal of Lakewood Stadium. Alex Stump caught three passes for 104 yards and two scores. Brandon DiMarco completed 4 of 5 passes for...

LAKEWOOD, Ohio - Andrew Dowell rushed for 55 yards and two touchdowns and Brett Kean tossed three touchdown passes to lead No. 2 St. Edward past visiting Akron Buchtel Saturday in a nonconference game at First Federal of Lakewood Stadium.

Alex Stump caught three passes for 104 yards and two scores. Brandon DiMarco completed 4 of 5 passes for 44 yards and two touchdowns for the Eagles.

St. Edward's defense held Buchtel in check throughout the game, as 10 of Buchtel's 44 offensive plays resulted in negative yardage. St. Edward defenders registered 5 quarterback sacks in the contest.

Buchtel did not cross midfield until the final drive of the game. St. Edward's average starting field position was the Griffins' 47 yard line.

Kenny Guiton replaced Braxton Miller at quarterback on the game's opening drive and the fifth-year senior accounted for three touchdowns in Ohio State's 42-7 victory against San Diego State. Watch video

 COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Initially, Urban Meyer estimated 60 yards. Then, he revised his measurement to 50 yards.

"How long was that?" Meyer finally asked.

When told Kenny Guiton's touchdown run equated to a 44-yard burst, Meyer deadpanned: "I guess it took him a while."

Then, the coach digressed. No more ragging on the backup quarterback who Meyer jested is "too slow" and doesn't possess "a strong enough arm." After all, it was Guiton who directed the Buckeyes to a 42-7 victory against San Diego State on Saturday after Braxton Miller exited on Ohio State's opening drive with a left knee injury.

"I gotta quit giving Kenny a hard time," Meyer said. "I'll tell you what: It's incredible to see."

This was Guiton's day, his moment, his long-awaited opportunity to absorb the admiration from nearly 105,000 Ohio State fans on a sun-splashed September afternoon in Columbus. The fifth-year senior admitted the idea of changing schools had floated through his mind in years past, when he registered little playing time.

Guiton played sparingly in four games last year, but he preserved Ohio State's undefeated season with a clutch rally in an overtime win against Purdue. Last week, he substituted for a cramping Miller and heaved his only pass for a touchdown to Chris Fields.

This time, he accounted for three touchdowns, while totaling 152 yards through the air and 83 more on the ground, as he demonstrated a dual-threat ability similar to that of the quarterback he replaced.

Meyer said Miller "could have" returned to the game after he rejoined the team on the sideline with a brace wrapped around his knee. There was no need, however, given how Guiton stepped in and delivered for the Buckeyes.

"With Kenny Guiton, it's not like you're bringing in some guy off the street," said co-defensive coordinator Everett Withers. "He's a talented player."

Miller suffered his injury as he converted a fourth-down rush. Guiton relieved -- Meyer referred to him as "the old right-hander" following the game -- and the scoring commenced. On the first play with Guiton under center, freshman speedster Dontre Wilson raced seven yards to the end zone for his first career score.

Later in the first quarter, Guiton lofted a pass over the heads of two San Diego State defensive backs and the ball fell gently into the hands of receiver Corey "Philly" Brown for a 27-yard touchdown. The two reconnected for a 24-yard score in the third quarter.

Of Ohio State's eight team captains, Guiton is the lone player to not own a starting job. That's a rarity, and it's something that holds merit with his teammates.

"He is one of the leaders on our team," Brown said. "Everyone on the team knows what we are getting when he comes into the game: a lot of confidence and a lot of swagger. When Kenny is out there, nobody is worried at all."

Guiton's crowning moment arrived midway through the second quarter. Four receivers, arranged in a diamond configuration, set up to the right. A fifth receiver lined up on the left. Guiton took the snap and bolted through a cavernous hole created by the offensive line. He started to the left and then zagged toward the middle of the field, an open pasture of green grass inviting Guiton to the scarlet-painted end zone.

He finally crossed the plane, raised his right index finger, knelt to the ground, shook his fists and prayed, basking in the moment before the frenzied band members and cheerleaders.

"You have to cherish every moment you get on that field," Guiton said.

Guiton's gallop armed Ohio State with a 28-0 lead, an advantage the Buckeyes pushed to 35-0 when Rod Smith plunged in from one yard out two minutes later.

San Diego State evaded a shutout when Chad Young nabbed a two-yard touchdown from quarterback Quinn Kaehler late in the third quarter. Still, the Buckeyes tallied four takeaways and the Aztecs totaled only three yards in five first-quarter drives. The defense benefitted from the return of cornerback Bradley Roby, who served a one-game suspension last week, and safety C.J. Barnett, who missed the opener because of a balky ankle.

"It's frustrating we didn't get the shutout today," said junior linebacker Ryan Shazier. "Every defense wanted to hold the other team to zero points, but we did what we had to do."

The effort provided plenty of breathing room for Guiton, not that the Houston native needed it.

The Buckeyes say they didn't learn much after Guiton's display on Saturday, that they already believed in the veteran's abilities. Several players contended that it didn't matter which quarterback took the snaps. Offensive coordinator Tom Herman said the team didn't alter its play-calling once Guiton took over for Miller.

Even so, Guiton impressed his peers. They can continue to watch the film of his 44-yard dash and poke fun at his speed or agility. Saturday's result, however, speaks volumes.

"I try to make sure the whole offense and the whole team see that I'm confident, that I want to come out here and lead [them] to a win," Guiton said. "When I get that opportunity, I want to succeed."

Video: Game highlights

Columbus, Ohio – What went wrong in Ohio State’s 42-7 win over San Diego State on Saturday? The Buckeyes are having a hard time keeping players healthy. Sure, No. 3 Ohio State has to feel good about dispatching the Aztecs without breaking a sweat, but doing it without quarterback Braxton Miller on the field, while impressive, will likely keep...

Columbus, Ohio – What went wrong in Ohio State’s 42-7 win over San Diego State on Saturday? The Buckeyes are having a hard time keeping players healthy.

Sure, No. 3 Ohio State has to feel good about dispatching the Aztecs without breaking a sweat, but doing it without quarterback Braxton Miller on the field, while impressive, will likely keep Urban Meyer from sleeping too well tonight.

But Miller’s knee sprain wasn’t the only injury. The Buckeyes also lost starting defensive end Adolphus Washington in the first half, and he never returned to the game.

“Adolphus has a groin injury,” Meyer announced to reporters after the game. “It will be day-to-day.”

Word is that both Miller and Washington will be good for next weekend’s road trip to California, but this is the second time in as many games that the Buckeyes have had to overcome losses to key players.

In the Buckeyes’ season-opening 40-20 win over Buffalo last week, Miller, linebacker Ryan Shazier and wide receiver Evan Spencer all fought issues with cramps. Shazier, the unquestionable leader of the defense, missed nearly two quarters, a time during which the defense clearly struggled.

The biggest concern, though, has to be with Miller.

Though he’s has an argument to be classified as one of the most electrifying players in college football, these minor injuries have become a trend. Really, the trend has lasted years, even dating back to his high school days at Huber Heights (Ohio) Wayne.

The Buckeyes have two wins in two games, and Miller has had to leave the game in both. How long can the Buckeyes continue to win with their most dynamic playmaker shelved on the sideline?

Ohio State would probably prefer to not find out how much magic is left in Kenny Guiton’s arm. Miller’s durability is an unquestionable concern.

Offensive penalties: Ohio State committed eight penalties for 75 yards. Penalties happen, but they’ll be felt more if they occur when the Buckeyes lineup against a Big Ten team, or one with comparable talent.

The player who struggled the most in that department Saturday was offensive lineman Marcus Hall. Though Meyer isolated Hall, a Glenville product, during fall camp as one of the team’s most vastly improved players, he was flagged four times, three of which were false start penalties. 

MENTOR, Ohio - Lake Catholic started Saturday night's football game against Youngstown Ursuline strong. After letting a 21-point lead slip away, the Cougars had enough left to finish strong for a 42-27 win on an emotional night. Connor Robinson made two interceptions in the win. His pick late in the fourth quarter helped close the game for the emotional...

MENTOR, Ohio - Lake Catholic started Saturday night's football game against Youngstown Ursuline strong. After letting a 21-point lead slip away, the Cougars had enough left to finish strong for a 42-27 win on an emotional night.

Connor Robinson made two interceptions in the win. His pick late in the fourth quarter helped close the game for the emotional Cougars and earned him the game ball from his team.

Lake Catholic jumped out to a 21-0 lead in the first quarter, but the Fighting Irish eventually tied the game with a scoring drive coming out of halftime. With the score 28-27 in favor of the Cougars, Christian Topanzo fell on a fumble in the end zone and Brett Zimmerman ran for a touchdown in the final minute to seal the win for Lake Catholic.

The Buckeyes were mad they lost the shutout but they didn't give the Aztecs much room to operate.

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Buckeyes look for them in the defensive film room. Mistakes. And then what happens.

In the preseason, all the Ohio State defenders talked about the speed on defense. A team that lost foundational defensive pieces like John Simon and Johnathan Hankins and Zach Boren got faster. What no one ever said back to those defenders was that speed doesn't matter if it doesn’t know where it's going.

Saturday afternoon in a 42-7 win over San Diego State that left the No. 3 Buckeyes (2-0) mad it wasn't a shutout, the speed looked smart. And the opposing offense looked squeezed.

Starting defensive end Adolphus Washington went down with a groin strain, but otherwise, Saturday was the OSU defense at full strength. Bradley Roby and C.J. Barnett were back in the secondary, Ryan Shazier wasn't cramping at linebacker, Michael Bennett was fulfilling his potential on the defensive line and even after Washington went out, Steve Miller and Joey Bosa filled in and a defensive line that lost all four starters from 2012 still looked nasty.

“We let it loose this week,” said Miller, who had a sack. “We were mad we didn't rush that well last week. But we rushed pretty good against this team.”

The Buckeyes had three sacks, and the nastiest rush came when Bennett beat his man up the middle with a spin move, Noah Spence beat his man off the edge with pure speed and both got a hit on the quarterback. Bennett forced the fumble and recovered it himself to set up a 24-yard touchdown drive for the Buckeyes in second quarter. The young defensive line is arriving quickly, and co-defensive coordinator Everett Withers credited defensive line coach Mike Vrabel.

While the test will get tougher than San Diego State, which gained 280 yards, the takeaway wasn't about one unit. It was how each worked together to give an offense nowhere to go.

The corners played more press coverage, with Roby back and rolling. That gave the defensive line more time to operate. The linebackers, led by Ryan Shazier (five tackles) and Curtis Grant (six tackles) flowed to the ball. And when a Buckeye made a mistake, another cleaned it up.

When speed pursues at the right angles and doesn't give up, a football field can look like the size of putting green.

“It's having the athleticism to be able to make plays in space,” Withers said, saying that will be vital against Cal's spread on the road next week. “Can you make a tackle in space? The defensive call may not be perfect, but do we have the speed to go make up for that call?

“Someone is going to get blocked and you're going to have to be able to beat the block and win. And if that guy doesn't win, are there going to be guys coming to chase him down? The offense is going to win some. How do we react to the offense winning one?”

The SDSU offense won once Saturday, scoring a touchdown at the end of the third quarter after a 72-yard drive to ruin the shutout. Co-defensive coordinator Luke Fickell was peeved enough to stalk down the sidelines with Grant after he came off the field, mad about something.

“I'd be mad, too,” Shazier said. “I was mad out there when they scored, because we were trying to hold them to a goose egg.”

That was one score. Otherwise, it was so far, so good.

The missed tackles early last season had Fickell talking about needing 11 guys running to the ball. If some of these guys run a little faster, they get there even faster. And that's what Withers and Fickell and the coaches will look at with the players this week. They should like what they see, and like a field that can look the size of an apartment balcony.

“I love that. We try to point it out as much as we can,” Withers said. “We try to really spend a lot of time pointing that out to our guys – 'So-and-so got blocked here, and so-and-so was running and pursuing and taking a great angle on the back side and chasing the football.'”

And then an offense may find nowhere to go. On a field the size of a dime.

The Buckeyes have plenty of positive takeaways from Saturday's 42-7 win against San Diego State, including the play of the running backs and the defense.

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Kenny Guiton received much of the praise on Saturday. In addition to the contributions submitted by the backup quarterback, however, the Buckeyes also received plenty from their plethora of running backs.

One week after he established a career high with 159 yards on the ground, Jordan Hall gained 75 yards and scored a touchdown. Dontre Wilson also scored and rushed five times for 51 yards.

"When I saw the end zone, I had to get there," Wilson said. "I think about [fumbling last week] all the time. I wish I had that play back, but you have to move on and keep playing. I'm way faster than a lot of people. Now, I have to go out and prove it."

Ezekiel Elliott carried the ball six times for 36 yards and Rod Smith -- in his first action this season -- logged 11 yards on three carries, including one for a touchdown.

Smith played primarily on special teams, but his overall time on the field reflected his relationship with coach Urban Meyer. Smith missed the opener because he was serving a one-game suspension.

"That tells you how much I trust him because he works really hard at it," Meyer said.

Guiton actually paced the pack with 83 rushing yards. He threw for 152 more. Ohio State didn't appear to miss starting quarterback Braxton Miller, who departed during the first drive because of a left knee injury.

"I just do my best to let my voice be heard and impact this team in a positive way," Guiton said.

The Buckeyes' defense put on a show as well. The group tallied four takeaways. Defensive lineman Michael Bennett, who Meyer said "was a liability" when he saw the field last season, forced and recovered a fumble after a sack. San Diego State's only score came on a two-yard touchdown pass in the waning minutes of the third quarter.

"Our defense played outstanding, to keep that group under wraps," Meyer said.

The defense benefited from the returns of cornerback Bradley Roby and safety C.J. Barnett. Roby served a one-game ban last week. Barnett missed the win against Buffalo because of an ankle injury.

"I feel like it was noticeable because it seemed like they didn't want to throw the ball in their direction," said linebacker Ryan Shazier. "Having guys like [Barnett] and [Roby] back is like a security blanket. We know exactly what they can do and that they're going to do it."

The Indians won their fourth straight Saturday night, knocking off the Mets, 9-4. Nick Swisher and Asdrubal Cabrera homered. The Tribe and Orioles are one game behind in the race for the second wild card. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio – On Saturday afternoon, the Ohio State football team easily disposed of San Diego State.

On Saturday night, distinguished Buckeye alum Nick Swisher doubled and homered in the first two innings.

O-H-I-O.

Swisher's early thunder helped the Tribe and right-hander Corey Kluber defeat the Mets, 9-4, at Progressive Field. Asdrubal Cabrera snapped an 0-for-19 skid with a three-run homer late.

"Just trying to make the state of Ohio cool again,'' Swisher said. "Big win by the Buckeyes, big win by the Tribe. Just trying to follow suit.''

The Indians (76-65) have won four straight and five of six. They entered Saturday two games out of the second wild-card spot; by the close of the baseball business day, they and Baltimore were one behind Tampa Bay, which lost again to Eric Wedge's Mariners in Seattle.

Francona's Fun Bunch is one game back. Let it marinate.

"This is the grind, man,'' Swisher said. "This is the push. It's been a while since this team had this opportunity, and we're going to do our best to take full advantage.''

The Indians have zero players ranked in the top 30 in the American League in homers. They have one, Jason Kipnis, in the top 37 in RBI. They have been counted out numerous times after bad stretches. Yet here they are, very much a factor with 21 games remaining.

"We're starting to get toward the middle of September, and every time we win, we're getting closer to where we want to be,'' Indians manager Terry Francona said. "Because we've endured a lot, every game, every inning, is so meaningful. It's just a great opportunity for this team to kind of shine, and I think they're enjoying it.''

The Mets (63-77) have lost five of six. They will send Daisuke Matsuzaka to the mound Sunday afternoon in hopes of avoiding a three-game sweep.

Remember Dice-K? The Indians signed the former standout for Francona's Red Sox to a minor-league contract in the offseason. Matsuzaka made 19 starts for the Class AAA Columbus Clippers but never made it to Cleveland. He was released Aug. 20 and signed by the Mets two days later.

Matsuzaka is 0-3 with a 10.95 ERA in three starts. He got rocked in his previous start, last Monday in Atlanta.

Kluber, making his first start since Aug. 5, gave up two runs on five hits in five innings. He struck out five and walked one. He went just five, plus one batter, because of a pitch limit. He threw 64 pitches; the projection was 70-75.

"Corey looked pretty much like he hadn't skipped a beat,'' Francona said. "There was a little bit of rust, I think, with the location of his fastball. But he held his velocity from pitch one, and, for the long layoff he had, he was outstanding.''

Kluber (8-5, 3.54 ERA) had been sidelined because of a sprained middle finger, which resulted from curveballs thrown in the previous outing. He said he would use all of his pitches without restriction upon his return, and he seemed to do so.

"Once I got into the flow of the game, I didn't feel like I had missed any time,'' Kluber said. "I didn't think about the finger. I haven't thought about it since the first bullpen during rehab.''

The Tribe offense quickly gave Kluber plenty of wiggle room. It scored five runs on six hits in the first inning.

Michael Bourn led off with a single against lefty Jon Niese. On the first pitch to Swisher, Bourn stole second. Swisher ripped a 2-2 pitch to left for an RBI double.

Kipnis bunted to the third-base side of the mound, where Niese pounced and threw to first baseman Lucas Duda. The throw was wide enough to force Duda to move his feet, and umpire Paul Emmel did not think he held the bag. Swisher moved to third on the sacrifice/E-1.

TV replays indicated that the Indians might have caught a break. Duda appeared to execute a nifty toe-drag.

Carlos Santana dumped a single to center to drive in Swisher, Kipnis stopping at third. Sizzling Yan Gomes loaded the bases with a single. Ryan Raburn plugged the gap in right-center with a double for RBI Nos. 44, 45 and 46 in his 199^th at-bat.

After Mike Aviles singled, Drew Stubbs lined into a double play.

The Mets nicked Kluber for a run in the second on a two-out, full-count RBI single by Matt den Dekker.

Swisher answered with a homer to deep left, his second long ball in three at-bats over two days. In the eighth inning Friday night, he hit a grand slam as part of an 8-1 victory. After that game, Tribe manager Francona expressed hope that the slam would enable Swisher to relax more.

Swisher finished 2-for-4 with a walk and is hitting .241 with 17 homers, 24 doubles and 52 RBI in 125 games.

"I feel like the same guy I was a week ago,'' Swisher said.

The Mets made matters interesting in the sixth. The Indians used four pitchers.

Eric Young Jr. led off with a seven-pitch walk. Francona hooked Kluber for lefty Rich Hill, who struck out two before walking Duda. Vinnie Pestano relieved and allowed a two-run double to Justin Turner and RBI single to Juan Lagares. Lefty Nick Hagadone relieved and struck out den Dekker.

Cabrera removed all but a scintilla of doubt with his line-drive homer off righty Scott Atchison in the seventh. It snuck inside the right-field pole.

"That actually was a pretty good pitch, down and in,'' Francona said. "To keep that ball fair, you need to take a good swing. Sometimes with hitters, that's what it takes: one good swing.''

Cabrera is hitting .234 with 10 homers and 52 RBI in 115 games. He has struggled mightily since the All-Star break.

"Swish looks like he's starting to swing it, and Cabby had a big, big hit,'' Francona said. "It would be so good to get both of those guys hot, at right about the right time.''

Swisher said: "Cabby and I have kind of been in the same boat this year. It's been frustrating. But this is when it really counts.''

Notable: In the seventh, Kipnis stole his 25th and 26th bases.

Columbus (9-14-5) dropped to 1-1 under interim manager Brian Bliss, who replaced the fired Robert Warzycha on Monday.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Claudio Bieler converted a penalty kick in the first half for his first goal in nearly two months, leading Sporting Kansas City to a 3-0 victory over the Columbus Crew on Saturday night.

View full sizeSporting Kansas City's Soony Sadd kicks the ball past Columbus Crew defender Eric Gehrig to score a goal in the first half of an MLS soccer game on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2013, in Kansas City, Kan. AP Photo/The Kansas City Star, Joe Ledford

Sporting moved into the Eastern Conference lead, three points ahead of New York and Montreal, who both play on Sunday. Columbus (9-14-5) dropped to 1-1 under interim manager Brian Bliss, who replaced the fired Robert Warzycha on Monday.

Bieler scored on a penalty kick in the seventh minute — his first goal since July 15 — to put Sporting up 1-0, after Will Trapp brought down Benny Feilhaber in the penalty area, and also provided the assist on Saad's goal in the 41st, a hard shot to the far post from the left side of the area.

Sapong's header in the 55th off a long diagonal pass from Uri Rosell made it 3-0.

Nielsen didn't have to make a save until the 78th minute, when he stopped Jairo Arietta's low shot.

The Bears nearly lost to an FCS school and should be big underdogs when the Buckeyes fly to the Bay Area for a 7 p.m. EDT game next Saturday.

COLUMBUS, Ohio – No. 3 Ohio State won convincingly Saturday. Cal, Ohio State's opponent next week, won … less convincingly.

“We were fortunate to win, let me say that," Cal coach Sonny Dykes said, according to the San Francisco Chronicle, after a 37-30 comeback win over FCS school Portland State. "They outplayed us, outcoached us, and we were very, very fortunate to win that football game."

A 35-point favorite in week one, a 28-point favorite in week two, Ohio State (2-0) should be a big favorite again next week against the 1-1 Bears, who opened with a home loss to Northwestern.

But first, a recap of our Saturday coverage of the Buckeyes. Actually, first, a story about Donovan Munger holding a toddler.

View full sizeOhio State freshman lineman Donovan Munger (holding child), out for the year while recovering from blood clots in his lungs, stopped to take a photo with a young OSU fan and some other injured Buckeyes before Saturday's game.Doug Lesmerises

I was walking to the pregame Skull Session on Saturday when I passed the players' entrance, where Munger, Adam Griffin, Jamie Wood and some other injured Buckeyes, who can't play right now, were heading into the stadium. A mother with a young girl dressed in an OSU cheerleader outfit, who was sleeping in a stroller, asked the players for a photo. The players stopped. The mom pulled the girl from the stroller and handed her to Munger, a freshman from Shaker Heights who is sitting out his first season as a redshirt because of blood clots in his lungs.

The players smiled – and the sleepy little girl threw her arm around the neck of the big lineman. Pretty cute.

And now:

The full game story from Zack Meisel on Kenny G and the Fightin' Guitons: "I gotta quit giving Kenny a hard time," Urban Meyer said. "I'll tell you what: It's incredible to see." (With Guiton video)

Braxton Miller's hit looked bad at first, but Meyer expects him to play next week. It was scary for a minute though. "It was kind of one of those knee-bucklers," Corey Linsley said, "like, 'Oh, man, is this guy all right?"

Bradley Roby returned from his one-game suspension: "Of course I hated not playing, but it was something I understood had to be done.” (With Roby video) 

Bill Livingston on how the Buckeyes might fare if they had to go with Kenny Guiton as a long-term answer.

Freshman Dontre Wilson scored his first college touchdown, but it won't be his last. Has he hit top speed yet? "No sir, I haven't had the chance to." (With Wilson video)

Join cleveland.com's pregame coverage online, starting at 11 a.m., as they preview the Browns-Dolphins matchup and talk fantasy football.

Watch cleveland.com's coverage of today's game, starting at 11 a.m. (John Kuntz / The Plain Dealer)

With so many pre-snap checks, shifts and motions, signal callers in this system have a lot to process even before the ball is snapped.

An Ohio State-San Diego State breakdown written by former Buckeyes' offensive lineman Andrew Moses as a special feature for Cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Kenny Guiton was never supposed to have an afternoon like this in Ohio Stadium. Most would agree that Guiton's transformation from an unheralded, late addition to the 2009 recruiting class into a capable backup quarterback is heartwarming and inspiring. But on Saturday, with his most impressive outing yet, Guiton proved he is much more than a reliable closer. The fifth-year senior from Houston is proving to be one of the most important and talented members of the 2013 Buckeyes and is undoubtedly helping Urban Meyer sleep at night. 

How did Guiton come so far? A key reason for his success is that Guiton's skill set and Meyer's offense are a perfect marriage. With so many pre-snap checks, shifts and motions, signal callers in this system have a lot to process even before the ball is snapped. Couple that with many run-pass options, the often-used zone read, and the old school speed option, quarterback decision making is essential. On Saturday, Guiton almost always made the decision that gave the offense the best chance to gain big chunks of yardage.

One secret to Meyer's offense is that when the right reads are made, Meyer's offense attacks a defense without putting his quarterbacks in high-risk situations. With Guiton making all the right moves Saturday and the offensive line wearing out San Diego State's front seven, the Buckeyes were able to gain over 440 yards with only one turnover. 

Guiton made big plays with his arm, throwing touchdown passes of 24 and 27 yards to Philly Brown. He made big plays with his feet, most notably his 44-yard touchdown run to put Ohio State up 28-0 in the second quarter. The coaching staff will be equally pleased with some of the drive-sustaining third and fourth down conversions that Guiton orchestrated. Although Guiton may not be as dynamic as Heisman hopeful Braxton Miller, his big arm, escapability, and sound decision-making allow Ohio State's offense to continue to be explosive.

Backup quarterbacks are not supposed to be this polished. Backup quarterbacks are not supposed to have this much talent. Kenny Guiton showed Saturday he isn't a backup quarterback, he just doesn't start.

Featured stories, columns, predictions and previews of the 2013 Cleveland Browns and the NFL. Watch video

Cover Story

Browns coach Rob Chudzinski and CEO Joe Banner (left) appear in lockstep with how they want the club to play. "We were looking for someone who had a fearlessness about the way they played on both sides of the ball," Banner said. (John Kuntz, The Plain Dealer)

Dawgs Ready To Attack

With a new head coach, the Browns want to move past their woes and attack their opponents.

BEREA, Ohio – The pained expression on Jimmy Haslam’s face, captured by CBS cameras, told the world what the Browns owner thought of coach Pat Shurmur’s decision.

The Browns trailed the Indianapolis Colts by four points with less than seven minutes left in an Oct. 21, 2012 game at Lucas Oil Stadium. The visitors were sitting on a 1-5 record and facing a fourth-and-1 on the Indy 41 after Josh Gordon had dropped a potential touchdown pass.

Shurmur planned to go for it, but was forced to burn a timeout because of confusion and an evaporating play clock. He changed his mind, ceding possession on a bad punt, in the Browns’ 17-13 loss.

The embattled coach defended his decision, noting his team did get the ball back. Asked for his take, quarterback Brandon Weeden was diplomatic: “I gave my input. I’m a player. I’m too aggressive. They’ve got the final say. ... We got another chance and just didn't capitalize.”

No single game or play led to the sweeping off-season changes in staff, personnel and philosophy – all of which debuts Sunday as the Browns host the Miami Dolphins in the opener at FirstEnergy Stadium. But that moment of indecisiveness followed by a punt epitomized the old regime: Live for another play; minimize the risk. Dink and dunk on offense. Read and react on defense. | Read the full story

Weeden vs. Tannehill: Did the Browns draft the right quarterback for the future?

Family Ties: Norv and Scott Turner welcome the chance to finally work together

Joe Banner on Browns: Talks about roster depth, the value of coaching

Join our live coverage from the stadium each week before the Browns take the field. (Joshua Gunter/ The Plain Dealer)

cleveland.com will be giving you the best Browns gameday coverage every week this season. Our pregame show previewing the Browns' game that week kicks things off, followed immediately by our fantasy football show. We'll give you our analysis on which players to start and sit in your fantasy league.

Join our live, in-game chat and read the mega-blog. Then at halftime, watch the halftime video show with our reporters live from the stadium.

At the conclusion of the game, call-in and listen to our postgame show.

This week's coverage schedule:

11:00 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.: Pregame show with Mary Kay Cabot, Tom Reed and Glenn Moore

11:15 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.: Fantasy football show with Chris Fedor

During the game: Chat with our reporters and other fans in our in-game comments chat; read our mega-blog and get the latest reaction from around the league

Halftime: Video show with our reporters from the stadium

Postgame audio show: Call-in and chat about the Browns' game with Dennis Manoloff and Glenn Moore

8:00 p.m.: Sunday Insider with Glenn Moore

• Bill Livingston: More silver linings in a tattered playbook?

•

Terry Pluto: Once again, it's 6-10 for the Browns

•

Bud Shaw: Browns coordinators Norv Turner and Ray Horton are the source of much hope, but is it too much?

•

Tom Reed: Browns season openers have heartbreakers since 1999

•
Mary Kay Cabot: 8 things to watch as Browns take on Miami Dolphins

More Browns Preview 2013

• Staff season predictions for Browns/NFL

•

Staff predictions for Browns-Dolphins

•

Week 1 Power Rankings

• Browns fans ready to tailgate, party and celebrate football season

• 10 essential pre-game tailgating tips

• Browns roster

• Browns team depth chart

• AFC team-by-team previews

•

NFC team-by-team previews

•

Read-option offense is more than a passing (rushing) fad in the NFL

• 2013 NFL schedule

cleveland.com's Glenn Moore talks about the Browns-Dolphins game with Mary Kay Cabot, Tom Reed and Dennis Manoloff.

cleveland.com's Glenn Moore talks about Brandon Weeden and the Browns' loss to the Dolphins on Sunday Insider. (Chuck Crow/The Plain Dealer)

Dolphins convert 8-of-16 third downs and earn reprieves of two passes that could have been intercepted by T.J. Ward and Joe Haden.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – The Browns defense did so many things right on Sunday – and still lost by 13 points.

The inability to get off the field on crucial third downs and two dropped interceptions by their most experienced defensive backs proved costly in a 23-10 loss to the Miami Dolphins at FirstEnergy Stadium.

The Browns sacked quarterback Ryan Tannehill four times and limited the Dolphins to 20 yards rushing -- the second-fewest allowed in franchise history -- in the debut of defensive coordinator Ray Horton. But the visitors converted 8-of-16 third-down attempts, beat several second-half blitzes and earned reprieves on two passes that could have been intercepted by T.J. Ward and Joe Haden.

It was too much for the Browns' defense to overcome on a day it received virtually no support from the offense.

“There were a lot of good things that came out of that game (defensively), but they made the plays down the stretch and they created some turnovers,” Browns linebacker D’Qwell Jackson said of the Dolphins. “That's the one thing we had a chance to capitalize on and we didn't. In order for us to separate ourselves, we've got to come up with those turnovers when they present themselves.”

Haden had a solid afternoon, limiting Dolphins receiver Mike Wallace to one catch (five targets) for 15 yards. But on the first play of the second half, the cornerback let a poorly thrown pass intended for Wallace slip through his hands at the Miami 35 with the Browns leading 7-6.

“I just dropped it,” Haden said. “I’m a player, I want to catch the ball. It’s just a missed opportunity. I dropped the ball.”

Ward had a tougher chance in trying to corral a Tannehill overthrow intended for Wallace on a second-and-9 from the 50 midway through the third quarter. The strong safety could not make an over-the-shoulder grab in the end zone.

The Dolphins scored three plays later as Tannehill found Ohio State product Brian Hartline for a 34-yard touchdown pass against cornerback Buster Skrine.

“Yeah, I mean it touched my hands so (I) definitely felt like I should have caught it,” said Ward, who battled through a shoulder injury. “I had to adjust at the last minute and just didn't bring it in.”

The Browns secondary, one of the team’s biggest concerns due its inexperience and lack of depth, couldn’t control Hartline, who caught nine passes for 114 yards. Brandon Gibson added seven receptions for 77 yards, including a pair of third-down conversions midway through the fourth quarter that led to a Dolphins’ TD and a 20-10 lead. On both plays Tannehill beat the Browns’ blitz.

Horton loves to bring pressure, and it was effective for two-plus quarters Sunday as free-agent acquisitions Desmond Bryant, Paul Kruger and Quentin Groves all recorded sacks. But Miami handled the Browns’ pressure better in the second half using max-protection packages to repel the pass rush.

Horton prides himself in his unit’s ability to get off the field on third downs – his Arizona Cardinals were the NFL’s fourth-best a season ago in defensive third-down efficiency (32.9 percent). That wasn’t the case Sunday, however, as the Dolphins clicked at 50 percent.

As the game unfurled, Tannehill capitalized on man-to-man coverage against Skrine and Owens. Skrine, who led the Browns with 12 penalties a season ago, was flagged for interference on the Dolphins’ final TD drive, and Owens missed a tackle that led to a 24-yard gain.

“The guys up front did a great job,” Owens said. “We just got to hold up our end on the back end, for sure.”