Ohio State moved to 7-0 following a 54-10 defeat of the Iowa Hawkeyes. The game was a defensive struggle early on, with both offenses failing to convert on key downs. However, the Buckeye offense would eventually get rolling, despite losing star wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba once again due to injury.
The Ohio State defense kicked things off with an interception on the first of the game, but settled for a field goal. Iowa would strip sack CJ Stroud for a scoop and score TD a drive later. From there, the Buckeyes would force a turnover on downs and a fumble but both once again led to only field goals. A Miyan Williams touchdown run and Tommy Eichenberg pick six allowed the Buckeyes to take a 26-10 lead to the locker room. However, everything was clicking for Ohio State in the 2nd half as they outscored Iowa 28-0 while forcing five more turnovers, two on downs, an INT, and 2 fumbles.
OFFENSE:
Top Performer: CJ Stroud
His day began a little rocky with a fumble that led to a touchdown and an ugly interception out of the half. However, Stroud got in rhythm and proved why he’ll likely be the top quarterback selected in the 2023 NFL Draft. Following the interception he would throw three TD passes, for a total stat line of 4 TDs and 286 yards passing.
Honorable Mention: Julian Fleming
Fleming has continually shown this season why he was the #1 WR in his class. He made the most of his 2 receptions tallying 105 yards and 2 TDs, aided by a 79 yard grab.
TO. THE. CRIB.
— The Silver Bulletin (@tSilverBulletin) October 22, 2022
CJ Stroud finds Julian Fleming for the 79-yard score 🏎pic.twitter.com/bCJOIp87Tf
DEFENSE:
Top Performer: Tommy Eichenberg
Tommy continues to play the linebacker position at an elite level this season. He added another seven tackles, 1 for loss, to his season total. He also recorded a pass deflection and a massive interception that he returned for a touchdown. If this high level of play continues, Eichenberg is sure to have a tree of his own in the Buckeye Grove.
PLANT. THE. TREE. #35 🌳
— Saturday Cadence Podcast (@SaturdayCadence) October 22, 2022
pic.twitter.com/nktKyBE1Nu
Honorable Mention: Remainder of Defense
The Buckeye defense continues to shine, living up to the standard of Jim Knowles and Ryan Day. Ohio State now has the 2nd ranked total defense in the country. They were dominant in this game, making both Spencer Petras and Alex Padilla look helpless at QB. In total the Buckeyes forced 3 interceptions, 3 fumbles, recorded 10 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks. The Buckeyes haven’t really faced legitimate offenses, so Penn State should be a good test on Saturday. Hopefully, Knowles’ crew is up for the challenge and solidifies their reputation.
LOOK AHEAD:
Ohio State travels to Happy Valley for a noon kickoff against 6-1, 13th ranked Penn State. Ohio State open as a 15.5 point favorite.
Prediction: 38-20
featured image: Joshua Keeran, The Delaware Gazette
Gabe Woodcox is a content contributor for The Silver Bulletin. He is a native of Cleveland, Ohio, and a graduate of The Ohio State University with a major of Sport Industry. Gabe has been working closely with Ohio State athletics during his sport industry tenure, writing for BuckeyesNews and working most recently with 97.1 The Fan. He is an avid Buckeye basketball and sports betting fanatic and will continue his education in a Turf Management Masters program next fall.
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