Ohio State Football used a 35-point third quarter explosion to separate from visiting Western Kentucky and cruise to a 63-10 victory.
The Buckeyes improved to 3-0 with the offense and defense being on point in Columbus this afternoon. It was a fun game to watch: There were plenty of big plays throughout the contest on both sides of the ball.
Buy Buckeyes TicketsThere was plenty of good and bad in the game. Even with a double-digit home victory, there are things you can work on. Here are the best performances, five stars, worst, one star, and everything in between on Ohio State football’s win over Western Kentucky.
5 ⭐️ - The defense
The Buckeyes can't stop scoring 🌰🔝
The @OhioStateFB defense adds on a TD 🔒 pic.twitter.com/4IvF8rU6lK
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) September 16, 2023
Why
Many, including myself, thought that WKU would finally test the Ohio State defense, but the unit did the opposite, it dominated. The Hilltoppers have a prolific passing offense. Although Ohio State gave up some yards, it effectively stopped WKU’s attack. The defense caused multiple fumbles, recovered the majority of them and added points to the board. This group passed this test with flying colors and impressed me the most today.
4 ⭐️ - The offense
😳 @ohiostateFB's offense has been firing on all cylinders pic.twitter.com/Caagqq2aBH
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) September 16, 2023
Why
They didn’t perform very well in the second half, that’s why this unit gets four stars. They were originally in the top spot, but the defense took over in the second half and that was the difference. Their first-half performance was awesome. The run game led by TreVeyon Henderson was churning out yards and the big play receivers and tight end, Cade Stover, were constantly open. Very good first start for Kyle McCord as “the guy” at quarterback.
3 ⭐️ - Penalties
Why
There weren’t many, but enough to be a bit weary. I hate seeing pass interference penalties. Jordan Hancock was called for one. Also don’t like seeing them on the line. A false start by Josh Simmons and snap infraction on Carson Hinzman were called. The Buckeyes need to play a clean game next week on the road against Notre Dame.
2 ⭐️ - Special teams
Why
Punter jesse mirco shanked one that went 37 yards, even though the game was out of hand by the time he saw the field. He needs to be better. Xavier Johnson looks a bit slow returning kickoffs, his second was not very pretty. The lengthy special teams return drought continues.
⭐️ - Sacks
Why
The lack of sacks was concerning leading into this game, and I thought that the defensive line played much better. Did they take down the quarterback like we all would like? No, but the unit did affect the game in a positive way. Defensive tackle Tyliek Williams jumped on a ball in the end zone along with a sack. Mitchell Melton added one in the fourth quarter when the backups were in. It wasn’t the production from the line, just lack of sacks that stands out.
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