In a thrilling top-five matchup, No. 4 Ohio State edged out No. 3 Penn State with a final score of 20-13, showcasing their strong defensive play and strategic offense. The game took place in front of an impressive crowd at Beaver Stadium, marking a significant achievement for the Buckeyes and keeping their Big Ten Championship hopes alive.
Ohio State quarterback Will Howard threw for 182 yards and two touchdowns. Despite an early hiccup where he threw a pick-6 on his first pass and later fumbled near the goal line, Howard made up for it with scoring passes to Emeka Egbuka and Brandon Inniss.
A standout feature of the game was Ohio State’s defense, which successfully prevented Penn State from scoring in the end zone, even during high-pressure moments. The Nittany Lions had significant opportunities, including a first-and-goal situation from the Buckeyes’ 3-yard line, but they were denied repeatedly, illustrating Ohio State’s resilience.
Drew Allar, playing through injury, contributed 146 passing yards while adding another 31 on the ground, but the Nittany Lions struggled to make substantial gains against a formidable Buckeyes defense. Tight end Tyler Warren had a notable performance with 94 total yards, but other key offensive players were largely held in check.
The triumph adds to Ohio State’s dominance over Penn State, marking the eighth consecutive victory in this rivalry. While the Buckeyes might not have showcased the high-octane offense they are known for, their physical playstyle is a promising indicator as they gear up for the postseason.
In terms of rankings, Ohio State is expected to rise to at least No. 3 in the polls, while Penn State will likely remain just outside the top 10.
Next week, Ohio State will face Purdue at home, while Penn State will host Washington, providing both teams a chance to further establish their credentials as the season progresses.
Overall, the Buckeyes have reinforced their position as a formidable contender and remain hopeful for a successful run in the upcoming Championship and playoff scenarios.