Ohio State crushed Grambling State 70-0 in Week 2. Julian Sayin, Jeremiah Smith, and the Buckeyes’ defense shine as they prepare for Ohio.

Ohio State rolled past Grambling State 70-0 on Saturday in a complete and dominant performance at Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes looked every bit the part of a national contender, putting together an explosive offensive showing while continuing to grow on the defensive side of the ball.

Offensive Firepower

Julian Sayin delivered another strong outing, completing all but one of his passes. His lone incompletion coming on an interception. He finished with over 300 yards and four touchdowns, spreading the ball around to his top playmakers. Freshman phenoms Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate both turned in big performances as part of the starting unit, while the Buckeyes also showcased depth throughout the roster.

Running back Bo Jackson stole the show in the backfield, rushing for over 100 yards and a touchdown. His combination of speed and power was on display as he fought for tough yards and provided a glimpse of Ohio State’s future at the position.

The tight end room continues to be a quiet strength. Will Kacmarek hauled in a touchdown up the seam, while Jelani Thurman, Max Klare, and Bennett Christian all logged valuable snaps. This group might be the deepest tight end rotation in program history, giving the Buckeyes versatility in both the passing game and the run game. As the season progresses, that unit could become one of Ohio State’s most underrated weapons.

Defensive Standouts

Defensively, the Buckeyes pitched a shutout and made life miserable for Grambling State. Caleb Downs recorded an interception, while linebacker Riley Pettijohn stood out as one of the game’s most active defenders, flying around the field and impacting plays at every level. The young linebacker found the end zone on a scoop and score in the third quarter for his first career touchdown. 

The secondary continues to play at a high level, with the corners locking down receivers and the safeties providing strong support. Meanwhile, the defensive line is beginning to mesh and looks primed to become a dominant force as the schedule toughens.

Looking Ahead

Next up, Ohio State hosts in-state foe Ohio University on Saturday at 7 p.m. on Peacock. The Bobcats are coming off a big win over West Virginia, and while the Buckeyes will be heavily favored, they cannot afford to overlook a well-coached MAC team eager to prove itself in the Horseshoe.

For Ryan Day’s squad, the keys will be discipline, limiting turnovers, and continuing to develop the younger players who are seeing increased action. Expect the Buckeyes to lean on Sayin’s arm once again, spreading the field with Smith, Tate, and the tight ends before heading into the bye week and preparing for Washington.

Jeremiah Smith noted after the win that Sayin’s accuracy is already impressive and improving each week. The process of building trust and chemistry is ongoing, but the offense is beginning to open up, and the talent is undeniable. 

Through two weeks, Ohio State looks deep and dangerous. The offense is finding rhythm with a mix of established playmakers and emerging stars, while the defense is tightening into a cohesive unit. With the bye week and a major showdown with Washington looming, the Buckeyes’ focus must remain on growth, discipline, and execution.

The foundation is being laid for another run at the College Football Playoff.