Eric Boggs
During Sunday evening’s live show of The OHIO Podcast, the crew handed out their traditional Buckeye leaves, recognizing standout performances from Ohio State’s victory over Iowa. Hosts Eric Buckeye Boggs, Chris “The Wildman” Wilds, and Silky Smooth J.R. praised several key players, spotlighting offensive and defensive efforts that led to the Buckeyes’ dominant win.
Offensive Player of the Game: Emeka Egbuka
Wide receiver Emeka Egbuka earned the unanimous nod as the offensive player of the game, with multiple hosts highlighting his outstanding performance. J.R. was the first to make the case, pointing out Egbuka’s three-touchdown performance, including a crucial first-quarter grab where he fought through contact to reach the end zone. “That first touchdown that Will Howard threw was a bit behind him,” J.R. noted, “but Egbuka made the catch and powered his way through. His leadership and blocking were also exceptional.”
Chris echoed J.R.’s sentiment, emphasizing Egbuka’s unselfish play and gritty performance, especially as a blocker in the absence of Carnell Tate. Even with key contributors out, Egbuka stepped up in both receiving and blocking, proving his value beyond the stat sheet.
Corey, known for his love of linemen, gave credit to right tackle Josh Fryer for his dominant run-blocking, but in the end, also sided with Egbuka, adding, “He’s been a complete player all year.”
Defensive Player of the Game: Sonny Styles & Davison Igbinosun
On the defensive side, it was a toss-up between two major contributors: linebacker Sonny Styles and cornerback Davison Igbinosun. Both received heavy praise for their physicality and high-impact plays.
J.R. went with Igbinosun, who secured the first interception of his career. “He was manhandling those Iowa receivers,” J.R. said, adding humor by noting, “It looked like those boys had never stepped into the club before, and Iggy just threw them right out.” Igbinosun’s aggressive style and game-sealing interception were standout moments.
Meanwhile, both Eric and Corey gave the nod to Sonny Styles, whose athleticism and high football IQ were on full display. Styles led the team in tackles and, according to Eric, showed vast improvement after a slow start to the season. “The light’s starting to go on for him at linebacker,” Corey added, “and if he keeps progressing, the Big Ten better watch out.”
Offensive Play of the Game: Jeremiah Smith’s One-Handed Catch
Jeremiah Smith’s one-handed touchdown reception was a popular choice for the offensive play of the game. Eric marveled at Smith’s ability to catch the ball with one hand while fending off a defender. “It was like his left brain was saying ‘catch the football,’ and his right brain was saying ‘get off me,’ all at the same time,” joked Eric.
The group also took note of Emeka Egbuka’s opening touchdown, which broke a 27-game streak where Iowa’s defense hadn’t allowed a score on an opponent’s first drive.
Defensive Play of the Game: Jack Sawyer’s Strip Sack
The award for the defensive play of the game went to Jack Sawyer for his critical strip sack late in the game. The hosts agreed it was a game-changing moment, as it swung momentum heavily in Ohio State’s favor. “When Sawyer’s in the backfield, everything changes for this defense,” Eric said.
Corey also highlighted the Buckeyes’ renewed physicality, mentioning a punishing sideline hit by Caleb Downs that embodied Ohio State’s aggressive defensive mindset.
