Eric Boggs
Ohio State wrapped up its non-conference schedule with a decisive 49-14 victory over Marshall, marking its third consecutive win of the season. Despite a few rough patches, the Buckeyes’ explosive offense and key defensive stops ensured the comfortable victory in front of 103,871 fans at Ohio Stadium.
Game Recap:
Marshall opened the game with a surprising 75-yard drive, capping it off with a 1-yard touchdown by Ethan Payne to take a 7-0 lead. This marked the first time an Ohio State opponent had scored a touchdown in 2024. However, the Buckeyes responded swiftly. Emeka Egbuka took a screen pass from Will Howard and raced 68 yards for a touchdown to even the score.
The Buckeyes faced a slight setback when Howard threw his first interception of the season, but Marshall failed to capitalize. Ohio State regained control, and Quinshon Judkins led the charge with a 29-yard run that set up a 1-yard quarterback sneak by Howard, giving OSU a 14-7 lead.
On the following possession, Judkins broke loose for an 86-yard touchdown run, tying for the third-longest in Ohio State history. TreVeyon Henderson added to the onslaught with a 14-yard touchdown run, pushing the lead to 28-7.
Marshall managed to cut the deficit to 28-14 before halftime, with quarterback Stone Earle connecting on a 13-yard touchdown pass to Elijah Metcalf after a targeting penalty on Caden Curry. Still, Ohio State pulled away quickly in the second half, starting with a 40-yard touchdown run by Henderson.
The Buckeyes’ defense tightened up after some early struggles, and Jeremiah Smith’s 53-yard catch-and-run touchdown extended the lead to 42-14. Judkins sealed the victory with his second touchdown of the day, stiff-arming Marshall defenders on his way to a 6-yard score.
Offensive Standouts:
- Quinshon Judkins: 14 carries for 173 yards and 2 touchdowns, including an 86-yard touchdown run.
- TreVeyon Henderson: 6 carries for 76 yards and 2 touchdowns.
- Emeka Egbuka: 5 catches for 117 yards and a touchdown.
- Will Howard: 16-of-20 passing for 275 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception.
Ryan Day praised the Buckeyes’ offensive explosion but acknowledged areas for improvement, particularly with the defense. “It was sort of a mixed bag,” said Day. “We were a little sloppy in some areas, and we will take a look at the film and see what needs fixed.”
Defense and Key Moments:
- Hero Kanu: Started at defensive tackle, filling in for the injured Tyleik Williams.
- Tywone Malone Jr. and Jason Moore: Rotated at the 3-technique position.
- Caden Curry: Ejected for targeting but will be eligible for the next game.
- Ohio State’s defense allowed 203 first-half yards but clamped down after halftime, holding Marshall scoreless in the second half.
Looking Ahead:
With a perfect 3-0 record in non-conference play, Ohio State now turns its attention to the Big Ten. The Buckeyes will travel to Michigan State next week to open conference play in prime time at 7 p.m., with the game broadcast on Peacock.
Game Notes:
- Seven NFL teams had scouts in attendance.
- Former Ohio State greats Maurice Clarett, Ted Ginn Jr., and Johnnie Dixon were in attendance.
- Ohio State is now 3-0 all-time against Marshall, winning previous matchups in 2004 and 2010.
Ohio State’s win over Marshall may not have been flawless, but it showcased the Buckeyes’ explosive potential as they prepare to embark on Big Ten competition.
