Individual In a crucial Big Ten game, No. 3 Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr. made the difference, and the savage Buckeyes’ defense took care of the rest.
No. 7 Penn State was defeated 20–12 by Ohio State on Saturday thanks to 11 receptions for 162 yards and a late score from Harrison. With a dominating defensive performance, Ohio State’s winning run in the series now stands at seven games against Drew Allar and the Nittany Lions (6-1, 3-1 Big Ten).
With 29 seconds remaining in the game, Penn State managed to cross the end zone, but it took them 58 minutes to convert a third or fourth down. Penn State’s first fifteen third-down tries were unsuccessful in conversions.
Against Penn State’s tight defense, the Buckeyes (7-0, 4-0) amassed 367 total yards, a season-high effort led by Kyle McCord, who went 22 for 35 for 286 yards.
Penn State coach James Franklin remarked, “I’m not sure if we didn’t just watch the two of the best teams in college football, specifically on the defensive side of the ball.”
“The story of the game came down to third down,” he said. The major difference in the game was that we couldn’t remain on the field.
Penn State’s greatest moment was short-lived.
Linebacker Curtis Jacobs of the Nittany Lions startled the Ohio Stadium crowd in the first half by pinning McCord’s ball, recovering the fumble, and sprinting 60 yards in the other direction for what seemed to be a score. Nevertheless, the defensive holding penalty rendered the play invalid.
After five plays, Miyan Williamson scored the game’s first touchdown for the Buckeyes from two yards out. At an average of less than two yards per carry, Williams accounted for 56 of Ohio State’s 79 running yards.
For both teams, Harrison was their only trustworthy attacking weapon. With 4:07 remaining, he took a ball that was crossing the middle and raced 18 yards for a touchdown that made it 20–6.
Coach Ryan Day of Ohio State said, “I think most teams look at how to take away Marvin Harrison.” “We probably targeted him sixteen times, and on the majority of those plays, he was open. Again today, he made a significant appearance. Although I haven’t seen everyone play in the nation, I doubt I could find a better player there. To me, he’s one of the most unique players in the nation, but I’m not sure how he makes these rankings or doesn’t.
The Nittany Lions were shut out in the second half until Allar hit Kaden Saunders for an 8-yard touchdown in the last 30 seconds. In the first half, Alex Felkins was only able to muster field goals of 40 and 41 yards.
Allar was sacked four times by the Buckeyes.
Allar said, “It stinks to lose like this, especially on the road.” “They’re an excellent team.”
THE TRANSFER
Penn State: The nation’s best defense was what the Nittany Lions brought to the table. Not being able to hold Harrison, the unit bowed and eventually broke. With only 49 running yards against the Buckeyes, the offense was never able to get going.
Ohio State: The defense played a great game, which was fortunate since the offense struggled most of the day. J.T. Tuimoloau, the defensive end, proved formidable once again against the Nittany Lions after having one of Ohio State’s finest defensive performances ever against Penn State the previous season.
SLOW MOVING
Ohio State is still seeking answers after experiencing difficulties with ball movement once again. Williams, who only averaged 2.6 yards per carry while running for 70 yards, had his first meaningful playing time of the season. TreVeyon Henderson, the team’s top back, was once again sidelined due to an injury but was still considered doubtful.
Day said, “We’re going to have to figure that part out if we want to take that next step as a team.”
MARV BITTER
Harrison is the only receiver in Ohio State history to have at least 160 receiving yards in five different games. In 1996–1998 David Boston had four.
Harrison said, “Really, I’m just going about my business.” “I don’t really realize what I’m doing out on the field. When the ball comes my way, I want to score for my group.
SUCCESSES
After what seemed to be a severe blow to the head, Penn State defensive end Chop Robinson was wheeled to the locker room during the first half. Robinson remained on the field for a few minutes before receiving assistance and being able to leave. He headed directly for the changing room from the medical tent.
When Devin Brown of Ohio State started to run the ball at the Penn State 6, he got wounded.
IMPLICATIONS FOR POLL
The Buckeyes ought to at least hold their position on Sunday after winning their game against the top-10 team. Penn State will probably fall.
Next up
Penn State: This Saturday, they host Indiana.
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