The recent loss on the road against Oregon was only a precursor to the tension that unfolded during Ohio State’s home game against Nebraska. The Buckeyes, ranked No. 4, found themselves in a precarious situation as they entered the fourth quarter trailing 17-14 in front of a crowd of 104,832 at Ohio Stadium. A defeat to an unranked opponent would have jeopardized their College Football Playoff aspirations.
However, when it mattered most, Ohio State rallied to secure a narrow 21-17 victory. Quarterback Will Howard connected with Quinshon Judkins for a crucial 9-yard touchdown pass with six minutes remaining, following Nebraska’s first lead of the game on their prior possession.
Ohio State’s defense stepped up, forcing a quick three-and-out, but the offense struggled to gain momentum, failing to secure a first down and giving Nebraska another chance to capitalize. A targeting call on linebacker Arvell Reese allowed Nebraska a first down at their 46, drawing ire from Buckeyes coach Ryan Day and resulting in some disturbance in the stands.
Despite this setback, Ohio State’s defense held firm, with Jordan Hancock intercepting a Dylan Raiola pass on third-and-19 to clinch the victory. This win marked the Buckeyes’ 44th straight triumph over unranked opponents under Coach Day, though this game raised significant concerns. Nebraska entered the game reeling from a hefty defeat to Indiana, and Ohio State aimed to assert dominance after their recent loss to No. 1 Oregon.
Throughout the game, Ohio State’s offense struggled significantly, managing only 64 rushing yards and converting just one of ten third-down attempts. Although they secured a victory, the upcoming match against No. 3 Penn State looms larger.
In the second half, Ohio State could not maintain a 14-6 halftime lead, allowing Nebraska to cut the deficit with a field goal. A turnover followed when Howard’s pass was intercepted, leading to a pivotal fourth-and-goal play where Nebraska was denied by Buckeyes cornerback Davison Igbinosun. Despite the defensive efforts, Nebraska led the game after a 1-yard touchdown run from Dowdell, followed by a successful two-point conversion.
The Buckeyes’ offense did spark late in the game, with Howard completing nine consecutive passes, including a significant 37-yard play to Carnell Tate, and a crucial fourth-and-1 completion to Emeka Egbuka, sustaining the drive that culminated in Judkins’ go-ahead touchdown.
Howard concluded the game with a commendable 13 of 16 for 221 yards, overcoming a challenging offensive performance in the earlier quarters. The first half was marked by missed opportunities, with the only significant plays resulting in touchdowns on downfield passes to Tate and Jeremiah Smith. Despite lackluster production from the running game, the team managed to persevere and prepare for the forthcoming challenge against Penn State.