The Ohio State Buckeyes' week five contest against the Washington Huskies will be a true test for defensive coordinator Matt Patricia and his unit.

After kicking off the 2025 college football season undefeated through three games, the Ohio State Buckeyes are now set to take on the Washington Huskies in the program's first Big Ten Conference matchup of the year.

One of the main reasons why head coach Ryan Day and his squad have been successful is due to the efforts on the defensive side of the ball. Led by defensive coordinator Matt Patricia, the Buckeyes currently rank first in points allowed per game (5.3) amongst FBS programs. This includes holding the preseason No. 1 team, the Texas Longhorns, to just seven points and 170 passing yards in week one.

Now, Patricia will encounter his next big test for the 2025 season during the team's roadtrip to Washington this weekend. The Huskies have jumped out to a quick 3-0 start this season will averaging 61.7 points per game and 536 yards per game.

Washington's dominate start on offense has been fueled by a dynamic run game between running back Jonah Coleman and quarterback Demond Williams Jr. The one-two punch on the ground has combined for 567 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, while ranking ninth the country in average rushing yards per game (260). Obviously, the offense has yet to encounter a tough defense like the Buckeyes' this season, but the run game could lead to issues for Ohio State.

When looking at Patricia's defense, Ohio State has been one of the best programs in shutting down the pass game, allowing an average of 118.3 passing yards per game. However, this can't be said for the run defense, as the Buckeyes have given up an average of 109.3 rushing yards per game this season. This ranks as the eighth-worst margin in the conference, which posses a threat to the defense on Saturday afternoon.

In order for the defense to limit both Coleman and Williams on the ground, this will require both sides to execute the game plan in week five. On offense, the Buckeyes must get out to a fast start to put less pressure on the defense. A quick lead for Ohio State would force Huskies' head coach Jedd Fisch to rely on Williams' arm and the passing game to claw their way back into the game. Williams has yet to be tested through the air this season, which gives the defense a prime opportunity to take advantage of his little experience.

If the Buckeyes' offense manages to gain an early lead over Washington, the defense must follow suit and eliminate any potential momentum for the Huskies on offense. Fisch's offense has not played from behind this season, so applying pressure to their offensive efforts could cause problems for Williams.

Finally, Ohio State must do a better job of getting after the quarterback in week five. The Buckeyes' front seven have recorded seven sacks this season, while also tallying just one sack against the Longhorn in week one. Patricia must find a way to generate pressure on Williams on Saturday to force turnovers and contain the young quarterback.