Buckeye Rosters

Recap

College Park, MD — Ohio State rolled past Maryland with a 43-30 victory on Saturday, keeping its hopes for a playoff berth alive as they secured a crucial win in front of a packed crowd at Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes (11-0, 8-0 Big Ten) survived a strong offensive showing from the Terrapins (7-4, 3-4 Big Ten), maintaining their undefeated record with a combination of explosive offensive plays and timely defensive stops.

Ohio State’s offense, led by quarterback C.J. Stroud, was in full force as he threw for 241 yards and a pair of touchdowns, helping his team to a commanding lead. Wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. continued his stellar season, catching seven passes for 120 yards and two touchdowns, including a spectacular 41-yard score that was one of the game’s highlights. Running back Miyan Williams added 147 rushing yards and a touchdown, giving Ohio State a balanced attack.

Maryland’s offense put up a fight, especially through the air, as quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa passed for 293 yards and three touchdowns. However, despite a strong individual performance, the Terrapins were ultimately unable to keep up with the Buckeyes’ offensive firepower. Tagovailoa connected with wide receiver Rakim Jarrett for a touchdown and also found Dontay Demus Jr. in the end zone for another. However, the Terrapins’ attempts to close the gap were thwarted by several key defensive plays from Ohio State.

The Buckeyes’ defense was pivotal in limiting Maryland’s comeback hopes, especially in the second half. Linebacker Tommy Eichenberg stood out with nine tackles, two sacks, and an interception that effectively ended any momentum Maryland might have had. The interception came in the fourth quarter, with Ohio State leading by just 10 points, and it set up another touchdown, extending their lead to 43-23.

Defensive lineman J.T. Tuimoloau played an essential role, registering a sack and forcing a fumble that was recovered by Ohio State in Maryland territory. Cornerback Denzel Burke also had a solid game, breaking up multiple passes and keeping Maryland’s wide receivers in check for most of the afternoon.

Ohio State’s defense remained aggressive throughout, frequently pressuring Tagovailoa and preventing him from establishing a rhythm. Despite some promising drives, Maryland could never fully capitalize on their offensive opportunities as they struggled to convert on third downs and turned the ball over twice.

Ohio State capitalized on the turnovers, with the final touchdown coming off a Maryland fumble late in the game. The win puts the Buckeyes in prime position to advance to the Big Ten Championship and potentially the College Football Playoff.

For Maryland, the loss ends a three-game win streak and puts a damper on their postseason hopes. Despite the efforts from Tagovailoa and his receiving corps, Maryland’s inability to stop Ohio State’s offense and make critical stops on defense ultimately sealed their fate.