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Midshipmen's triple-option attack will test stamina, technique of No. 5 Ohio State's defense

Associated Press
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FILE - In this Dec. 7, 2013, file photo, Michigan State's Connor Cook (18) is sacked by Ohio State's Joey Bosa (97) during the first half of a Big Ten Conference championship NCAA college football game in Indianapolis. For Saturday's, Aug. 30, 2014, season opening game with Navy, Bosa and the Ohio State defense must get ready for the Midshipmen's lethal triple-option game. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings, File) (The Associated Press)

FILE - In this March 4, 2014, file photo, Ohio State defensive lineman Noah Spence runs drills during NCAA college football practice in Columbus, Ohio. For Saturday's, Aug. 30, season opening game with Navy, Spence and the Ohio State defense must get ready for the Midshipmen's lethal triple-option game. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete) (The Associated Press)

It's already difficult to play Navy because of the tough, dedicated and disciplined players on any service academy's roster.

On top of that, No. 5 Ohio State must get ready for the Midshipmen's lethal, unique offense. Navy is one of the few full-time practitioners of the triple-option left at the college level.

So when the Buckeyes meet the Midshipmen on Saturday in Baltimore, they must prepare for a physical battle against a supremely conditioned team. They also must hone their knowledge of assignment defense against star quarterback Keenan Reynolds and Navy's other offensive threats.

The Buckeyes know they've got their hands full as they open their 125th season.