Ohio State had a full day to observe other Big Ten teams struggle before their primetime game against Western Michigan. With Michigan falling to Texas, Penn State barely surviving against Bowling Green, and Iowa blowing a lead to Iowa State, the Buckeyes entered the game with a heightened sense of focus. And they delivered a resounding performance.
The Buckeyes dominated from the start, scoring touchdowns on five of their first six possessions and shutting out Western Michigan 56-0. Ohio State’s defense posted its first shutout in five years, limiting the Broncos to a mere 99 yards of total offense, including just 5 yards in the second half. Quarterback Will Howard had a stellar game, completing 18 of 26 passes for 292 yards and one touchdown, while also running in a score before sitting for most of the second half.
Howard wasn’t the only Buckeye putting on a show. Running back Quinshon Judkins rushed for 108 yards on only nine carries, including two 23-yard touchdowns. Though an 80-yard touchdown run was nullified due to a penalty, Judkins’ explosive playmaking added to the excitement in Ohio Stadium, which was filled with over 102,000 fans.
Freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith further highlighted Ohio State's offensive firepower, turning a short pass into a 70-yard sprint for a touchdown. He finished the game with five catches for 119 yards, cementing his place as a rising star.
Defensively, Ohio State stifled Western Michigan, allowing just four first downs in the entire game and zero after the Broncos' initial drive. Middle linebacker Cody Simon, returning to action after missing the previous game, made his presence felt with a third-down sack early on. The Buckeyes’ starters did not allow Western Michigan past their own 49-yard line for the remainder of the game.
While the starters shone, Ohio State's backups also got in on the action. Freshman quarterback Devin Brown led a scoring drive, capping it off with a 12-yard touchdown run by James Peoples. Fellow freshman Julian Sayin connected on a 55-yard touchdown pass to tight end Bennett Christian to close out the scoring.
After a somewhat lackluster opening half against Akron the previous week, Ohio State made good on their vow to start faster. This time, they raced out to a 35-0 halftime lead, putting any concerns about a slow start to rest. The offensive line, which had struggled at times against Akron, looked dominant, creating ample running room and giving Howard plenty of time to operate in the pocket.
Looking ahead, Ohio State has a bye week before finishing its non-conference schedule against Marshall. The Buckeyes will aim to build on their early-season success, especially with a defense that has been performing at a championship level. As they prepare for the tougher challenges ahead, the team appears poised to make a serious run at the Big Ten title and beyond.
In just two games, Howard has demonstrated the leadership and skill set that Ohio State needs from its quarterback. While his predecessor, Kyle McCord, had a strong arm, Howard’s ability to extend plays with his legs and his calm demeanor under pressure have made him a more complete fit for the Buckeyes’ offense. His connection with Smith and the rest of the receiving corps will continue to be a key storyline as the season progresses.
As Ohio State marches forward, the depth, explosiveness, and balance across the roster will likely make them a team to watch for the national title race. And with offensive coordinator Chip Kelly working alongside head coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes’ offense looks set to continue posting eye-popping numbers in the weeks to come.
What We Learned from the Buckeyes' Win
- Ohio State's Offensive Line: Improved significantly from Week 1, dominating the line of scrimmage.
- Jeremiah Smith: Proving to be one of the most talented wide receivers in college football, even as a freshman.
- Defense Dominance: This defense is fast, deep, and versatile, making them a key asset moving forward.
- Will Howard’s Leadership: His dual-threat ability brings a new dynamic to Ohio State’s offense, and his leadership has already become evident.
- Chip Kelly’s Play Calling: Continues to evolve, helping the Buckeyes strike a balance between their running and passing game.
Ohio State fans should be excited about the team’s potential this year, as the pieces are coming together for what could be a special season. With explosive talent on both sides of the ball, the Buckeyes look primed for a successful campaign.
