Ohio State's dominance continues! After losing a record-tying 14 players to the NFL draft, many wondered if the Buckeyes could maintain their championship form. But halfway through the season, they've silenced the doubters. They're not just good; they're great.
On Saturday, Ohio State, currently ranked No. 1, crushed No. 17 Illinois with a 34-16 victory. This win wasn't just a win; it was a statement, showcasing the team's incredible depth and ability to reload, not rebuild.
Coach Ryan Day highlighted the team's maturity and competitive spirit, stating, "The guys who we didn't know about going into the season, they've now proven that they belong." This is a testament to the program's culture and the players' dedication.
While stars like Caleb Downs, Sonny Styles, and Jeremiah Smith remain, the game's success was largely driven by new faces. Cornerback Jermaine Mathews Jr. and defensive lineman Kayden McDonald were instrumental, with McDonald forcing three turnovers that directly led to 21 points for the Buckeyes. Emerging defensive stars like Arvell Reese and Kenyatta Jackson Jr. added to the pressure with sacks and tackles for loss.
McDonald, a reserve in his first two seasons, made a crucial play by stripping the ball from Illinois' Ca'Lil Valentine, setting up a touchdown pass. This play, along with Mathews's deflection that led to an interception by Payton Pierce, demonstrated the impact of new contributors.
But here's where it gets controversial... Ohio State's defense, known for its stinginess, allowed a season-high in points. Before this game, they had only allowed a total of 25 points through five games.
Mathews's reaction, "This defense is crazy, ain't it?" reflects the team's confidence. Even after building a comfortable lead, Day noted the team "took our foot off the pedal a little bit."
Quarterback Julian Sayin, despite not being as efficient as usual, still managed to avoid major mistakes and threw two touchdown passes. He led scoring drives on six of Ohio State's first eight possessions, showcasing the team's resilience.
And this is the part most people miss... The Buckeyes are entering the second half of the season with more answers than questions, a scary prospect for their opponents.
So, what do you think? Can Ohio State continue this dominant run? Do you agree that their defense is still elite, despite allowing more points? Let's discuss in the comments!
