The highly anticipated 88th Goodyear Cotton Bowl matchup between No. 9 Missouri and No. 7 Ohio State is just around the corner. With the focus now shifting to the game itself, let's take a closer look at how Missouri's offense matches up against Ohio State's formidable defense.

Ohio State's defense boasts an impressive lineup of talented players. Six of their players made the all-conference team, and they have NFL-level talent at every position. Notable players to watch include star cornerback Denzel Burke, defensive tackle Tyleik Williams, defensive lineman Jack Sawyer, and defensive back Jordan Hancock.

Burke, who has been projected to be a potential Day 1 draft pick, had an outstanding season with 19 tackles, two tackles for loss, nine pass deflections, an interception, and a forced fumble. Despite his modest statistics, opposing quarterbacks often avoided targeting him due to his exceptional coverage skills.

Williams led the team in tackles for loss with 10, along with 49 tackles, three sacks, five bat downs, and a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown. Sawyer, another potential Day 2 prospect, showcased his skills with seven tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. Hancock, who played in 12 games and started five, displayed his versatility with 38 tackles, a tackle for loss, a sack, two forced fumbles, five pass deflections, and two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown.

Owing to the exceptional talent on display, Ohio State's defense is truly formidable. Moreover, if EDGE J.T. Tuimoloau, linebacker Tommy Eichenburg, and Michael Hall Jr. are all able to play, their defense will be at full strength. Tuimoloau, an All-Big Ten first-team selection, led the team in sacks with four, while Eichenburg, another All-Big Ten first-team player and the Butkus-Fitzgerald Linebacker of the Year, recorded 82 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, a sack, and a forced fumble. Hall Jr., also an All-Big Ten third-team selection, contributed with 21 tackles, two tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks.

According to Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz, Ohio State's defense is one of the best they have faced all season. The Buckeyes have held nine opponents to 12 points or less and rank highly in all major statistical categories. Drinkwitz emphasized the need for Missouri to win the battles in the trenches on both offense and defense in order to have a chance in the game.

On the offensive side, Missouri is expected to field all 11 starters for the game. Running back Cody Schrader has been in outstanding form, racking up over 100 rushing yards in each of the last five games. He had two 200-yard rushing games against tough opponents like Tennessee and Arkansas. Schrader, who finished the season as the nation's leader in yards per game with 124.9, will be a key component of Missouri's offensive strategy against Ohio State.

Wide receiver Luther Burden III has emerged as a superstar this season, recording 87 receptions, 1,197 yards, and eight touchdowns. His contribution in the passing game will be vital for Missouri as they look to overcome Ohio State's strong pass defense.

Missouri has a solid offensive line unit that was even named a semifinalist for the Joe Moore Award, given to the nation's best offensive line unit. This will serve them well as they face the tough challenge of going up against Ohio State's formidable defensive front.

Quarterback Brady Cook's ability to lead the offense and minimize turnovers will be crucial in Missouri's game plan. Cook had a successful season, passing for 3,189 yards, 20 touchdowns, and only six interceptions. Ohio State's defense has forced a modest 11 turnovers this season, which may work in Cook's favor.

As the game approaches, Missouri is expected to heavily rely on the running game to open up opportunities in the passing game. Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz believes that the game will ultimately be decided in the trenches, and he is confident in his team's ability to compete against Ohio State.

The clash between Missouri's offense and Ohio State's defense promises to be an exciting battle of strength versus strength. Fans can expect a thrilling showdown in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl as both teams look to showcase their skills and vie for victory.

(This news article is purely fictional and created based on the provided text.)