Joel Klatt knows a lot of people are unaccustomed to the type of football being played in Columbus this season. In recent seasons, Ohio State has dominated with a high-powered offense, but the Buckeyes have flipped the script this season.

During the latest episode of The Joel Klatt Show, he broke down how Ohio State is currently No. 2 in scoring defense but No. 38 in scoring for offense. It’s something that can be “jarring” considering the traditional format of Ohio State.

“I think that’s jarring for people at large and maybe even some in the fanbase,” said Klatt. “Because you’re like ‘Man, I’m not used to this.’ I’m not used to having to grind out a win against Notre Dame, I’m not used to grinding out a game against Maryland to some degree.. it looks and feels different, right?”

As for the flip, in methods, Klatt believes this year’s model is the preferred model for a team looking to compete. He explains the other versions under Ryan Day have “come up short” in big-time moments.

“The defense was always suspect and was always a concern over the last three years. It was like are they good enough, will they hold up in the big moments? So then it just begs the question (method) is better? If I’m an Ohio State fan, I’m going to take this version… Because I’ve seen the other versions not work,” Klatt explained. “I’ve seen the other versions come up short.

“In the last three years, Ohio State has been QB-centric, offensive-specific, and tried to nurse their defense along. Now in 2023, this team is really strong on the defensive side, They’re the No. 1 defense in the country when it comes to yards per play… giving up 10 points per game. They’re tough, they’re physical, they don’t give up big plays or cheap points.”

We’ll find out if this year’s method proves more effective late in the season, but the Buckeyes could have their most complete team yet under Day.