Eric Boggs
In this week’s episode of The OHIO Podcast, hosts Eric Boggs, Chris Wilds, J.R. Rhoades, and Cory Thompson brought their Buckeye Leaves segment to life, praising key players who made Ohio State’s latest victory a memorable one. The hosts exchanged insights, shared laughs, and highlighted the gritty performances that had Buckeye Nation buzzing.
Offensive Standouts: Carson Hinsman and Will Howard Get Their Due
Chris kicked off the discussion by giving offensive player of the game honors to center Carson Hinsman. “It’s rare we give it to a lineman,” Chris began, “but Hinsman was nasty out there. He was pushing people around, making key blocks on big plays. I haven’t smiled this much on the show in weeks.”
Cory chose quarterback Will Howard, not for his flawless play, but for his unshakeable leadership. “He made some mistakes,” Cory admitted, “but he never got rattled. When the game was on the line, he rallied the team, pumped up the offensive line, and showed why he’s a true leader.”
J.R.went with the running back duo TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, pointing out that they did more than just carry the ball. “Every time Howard had the ball, those two were out there blocking like madmen. They hit like they were channeling Orlando Pace.”
Defensive Heroes: Iggy, Kayden McDonald, and Caleb Downs
For defensive player of the game, Chris and Cory agreed on cornerback Igman Harrison, with Chris praising a clutch interception before halftime. “The Penn State receiver was so worried about pushing off he missed the ball. Iggy stepped up big,” said Chris.
J.R., however, couldn’t overlook the impact of Kayden McDonald. “This guy is a beast. His goal-line stand was pivotal, and he’s clearly ready to be next year’s starter. He’s got that big-body presence that disrupts any offense.”
Meanwhile, Cory praised freshman safety Caleb Downs for a shoestring tackle on a Penn State screen play. “That tackle kept them from converting a first down. Downs’s awareness, his ability to make those plays—he’s a game-changer. Big thanks to Nick Saban for retiring!”
Offensive Play of the Game: Touchdown Highlights and Fourth-Down Heroes
The hosts moved on to discuss their favorite offensive plays, with Chris pointing to Brandon’s big play call that set up the offense beautifully. “They set it up just right,” he remarked.
J.R. picked Jelani Thurman’s critical fourth-down conversion, a play that had him on the edge of his seat during the live show. “It was huge. I nearly had a heart attack!”
Eric gave his nod to the touchdown pass to Emeka Egbuka, crediting the play design and Will Howard’s perfect throw. “It was the first touchdown of the game, and it calmed everybody down. That play set the tone for the rest of the day.”
Defensive Play of the Game: Iggy’s Interception and Downs’s Shoestring Tackle
On the defensive end, Chris and Cory both picked Igbinosun’s interception as their play of the game. “It kept Penn State out of the end zone right before halftime,” Chris noted. “That was huge.” Cory agreed, emphasizing how pivotal it was in maintaining Ohio State’s lead.
J.R. spotlighted Caleb Downs’s shoestring tackle that stopped Penn State short on a screenplay. “He just knows how to trigger and make those plays. He’s one of the smartest guys on the field.”
Looking Ahead
As they wrapped up, the hosts couldn’t help but reflect on the Buckeyes’ growth and the continued fight against Michigan on the horizon. As Cory reminded everyone, “Every week brings new challenges, but it’s a great time to be a Buckeye.” The OHIO Podcast team is all in for the rest of the season, and with performances like these, Buckeye fans have a lot to cheer about.
