NOTEBOOK \ Ohio State vs. Northwestern

Lopsided: Saturday's 54-10 win was Ohio State's largest margin of victory since 1996 when the Buckeyes blasted Pittsburgh, 72-0.Concerns? Placekicker Aaron Pettrey's fourth point-after kick was blocked by Wildcats defensive end Corey Wootton. Pettrey has missed three PAT kicks on the season. After the Buckeyes' fifth touchdown, holder A.J. Trapasso couldn't control a high snap and his run was stopped short of the end zone.Road game: Although the game was played outside of Chicago, there appeared to be as many scarlet jerseys and jackets in the stands as purple ones. The crowd of 47,130 -- Northwestern's only sellout of the season -- was loaded with Buckeye fans. The previous high was the Michigan State game on Oct. 21 that drew 29,000 fans.Looking ahead: Tressel suggested the Buckeyes need to clean up their giveaways before the Wolverines arrive in town. "Obviously, we turned it over a few times and we've gotta that straightened out. That can't happen next week." Tressel said he's pleased with how the his players didn't get lulled during the past six weeks when they played unranked teams. "I'm proud of the way the kids kept their minds on playing every game this season. I know they are excited to play the Ohio State-Michigan game. It isn't about the BCS, it's about the conference."
Tom Williams