
Ohio State dominated Wisconsin 34-0 behind another stellar defensive showing and the unveiling of an aerial assault from Julian Sayin.
The Ohio State Buckeyes went into Camp Randall Stadium and walked out with a dominant 34-0 victory over the Wisconsin Badgers. The win marks Ohio State’s second shutout of the season and further cements the Buckeyes as the nation’s top defensive unit, allowing a remarkable 5.8 points per game through eight weeks.
In a game traditionally known for its physicality and “Jump Around” atmosphere, it was Ohio State that did the jumping. From start to finish, the Buckeyes controlled every phase of the game, showcasing why they are the current No. 1 team in the country. Behind another suffocating defensive performance and the steady leadership of freshman quarterback Julian Sayin, Ohio State improved to 7-0.
Here are four Buckeyes who stood out in the 34-0 shutout win in Madison.
Carnell Tate
Wide receiver Carnell Tate continues to build an All-Big Ten resume, adding another stellar performance to his season. The sophomore hauled in six receptions for 111 yards and two touchdowns, consistently finding open space against a Badger secondary that had no answers.
Tate has become one of Julian Sayin’s most trusted targets, and his chemistry with the young quarterback is becoming a nightmare for opposing defenses. Alongside Jeremiah Smith and tight end Max Klare, Ohio State’s passing attack has evolved into one of the most dangerous units in the country.
NFL scouts have taken notice. With Ohio State’s history of producing elite wide receivers from Garrett Wilson to Emeka Egbuka . Tate is quickly joining that lineage. He’s not only emerging as one of the top receivers in the Big Ten but could also find himself in the conversation for the Biletnikoff Award, potentially giving Ohio State two finalists in the same season something which has never been done before.
Isaiah West
Running back Isaiah West, who recently shed his black stripe, made the most of his opportunity in Madison. West ran with confidence and power, finishing with nine carries for 55 yards, averaging 6.1 yards per attempt. His acceleration through the hole and tough running stood out against Wisconsin’s traditionally tough front seven.
Ohio State’s rushing attack has been inconsistent this season, struggling at times to find rhythm behind a rotating offensive line. West, paired with fellow freshman Bo Jackson, appears to be the fresh spark the Buckeyes have been searching for. The freshman’s energy and explosiveness have given running backs coach Carlos Locklyn and offensive coordinator Brian Hartline something to think about heading into November.
Could the Buckeyes shift to a youth movement in the backfield? If the production continues, it may be difficult to keep these freshmen off the field.
Julian Sayin
Julian Sayin turned in his best collegiate performance to date, completing 36 of 42 passes for 393 yards and four touchdowns while posting an eye-popping 85% completion rate.
Sayin showed maturity beyond his years. He handles pressure and distributes the ball to multiple playmakers, and even picked up key first downs with his legs when the pocket collapsed. His confidence continues to grow each week, and the offense is thriving.
Is Julian Sayin playing himself into the Heisman Trophy conversation?
At this point, it’s not out of the question. Sayin has thrown for 1,872 yards, 19 touchdowns, and only three interceptions this season, while completing 80% of his passes which is the highest mark in the nation. His 94.2 QBR ranks fourth nationally, placing him firmly in the discussion as one of college football’s top signal-callers.
If Sayin continues at this pace, he won’t just be a Heisman finalist he is becoming the next great Ohio State quarterback to reach New York City.
Arvell Reese
Linebacker Arvell Reese continues to anchor the Buckeyes top-ranked defense with another standout performance. Against Wisconsin, Reese recorded four tackles and one sack, constantly applying pressure and forcing Badgers quarterback Hunter Simmons off his game. Wisconsin’s offense never found its rhythm, managing just 54 passing yards and failing to cross midfield for most of the night.
Reese’s instincts, and physicality make him one of the most disruptive defenders in college football. He seems to be involved in every play whether it’s blowing up a screen, filling a gap against the run, or dropping back in coverage. His play style has made him a tone setter for Matt Patrica defense.
At this rate, Reese is not just on an All- Big Ten trajectory he’s playing at an All-American pace. His name is also starting to surface in national award conversations, including the Butkus Award, given annually to the nation’s best linebacker. The last Buckeye to win it was James Laurinaitis in 2007 who now coaches him in Columbus.
What’s Next for the Buckeyes
Ohio State now heads into its final bye week before the crucial November stretch. The Buckeyes will use the off week to rest, regroup, and prepare for their next challenge: a massive showdown on November 1st at home against Penn State.
With the defense playing a high level , Sayin finding his rhythm, and new offensive weapons emerging, this Buckeye team is beginning to look like a complete championship contender. The road ahead includes a date with TTUN and if Ohio State continues to play at this level, the road to Indianapolis with a possible date against the Hoosiers is still possible.
One thing is certain the Buckeyes jumped around in Madison and kept the Badgers quiet.

Co-Host of The Bunch of Nuts Podcast. Broadcaster for FCSN. I have worked multiple Big Noon Kickoff productions in the booth with Gus Johnson and Joel Klatt.