The Penn State men's rugby team can recollect the last time it beat rugby powerhouse Navy. But it can't do the same when they think about Ohio State. For the past two seasons the Buckeyes have dominated the Ruggers. It has simply wore the Ruggers down with a physical style of play along with size.

This weekend the Ruggers will be given an opportunity to end that streak when it goes up against the Buckeyes this weekend in Boulder, Co in the Sweet Sixteens.

Apart from gaining revenge by beating the Buckeyes, a win would also keep the flame burning for hopes of a national championship.

"This is our last chance," senior forward Jason Fisher said.

This week, the Lions have been focusing on their ball handling skills as they can ill afford to make mistakes against the Buckeyes. They also worked on arriving at the breakdowns as a group to increase their chances of retaining the ball.

"We need to improve our support," flyhalf Tim Ryland said.

Another concern for the Ruggers is injuries. Last weekend, captain Brett Cowan tore his ACL and his status is unclear. In any case, the Ruggers believe they have a strategy to minimize the loss.

"We plan on rotating a couple of players," Penn State men's rugby coach Terry Ryland said.

Consequently, others will have to step up and assume a leadership role.

"I need to be like him and be more involved in everything," Ryland said. He also added that depth will be important because of the if the Ruggers win they might have to play another game the next day.

"This is the most depth we have had since I have been here the past three years," Ryland said.

A key to stopping the Buckeyes will be the aggressiveness of the Ruggers. They must make sure that they knock the Buckeyes off their feet.

"Things go well for us against Ohio State if we stop them on defense," Fisher said. "It all depends on our mental toughness."