Eric Boggs
Ohio State’s recent victory over Tennessee wasn’t just another win—it was a statement game. On the latest episode of The OHIO Podcast, hosts Eric Boggs, Chris Wilds, and Cory Thompson dissected the key performances that led to this resounding triumph. Handing out their traditional “Buckeye Leaves” for outstanding contributions, the trio highlighted the players and moments that defined the game.
The offensive MVP conversation was a contentious one, showcasing the depth of Ohio State’s talent. While Chris gave the nod to quarterback Will Howard, praising his leadership and bounce-back performance after a statistically poor outing, Cory took a different route. He spotlighted Donovan Jackson, who seamlessly transitioned to left tackle after Josh Simmons’ injury. Jackson’s performance not only stabilized the offensive line but also demonstrated his potential as a future NFL star. The hosts also lauded the offensive line as a unit, crediting their dominance for the team’s success on the ground.
Defensively, Jack Sawyer emerged as the inspirational leader of the game. Chris emphasized how Sawyer’s raw passion and energy ignited the team, stating, “This team rode his emotion.” While Sawyer’s stats weren’t the most eye-popping, his intangible contributions as a motivator and leader were unparalleled. Cory added that Sawyer’s progression into a true captain has been evident, with his five-star potential now fully realized. Meanwhile, Eric highlighted J.T. Tuimoloau’s impact, noting his eight tackles, two sacks, and disruptive presence on third downs, even when dropping back into coverage.
When it came to offensive plays, the first touchdown—a 37-yard pass from Howard to J.J. Smith—set the tone early and made a significant impact. Chris and Cory also pointed to Trey Henderson’s rushing touchdowns, with particular attention to the second score where Henderson seemingly disappeared into a pile before emerging for a spectacular run to the end zone. These plays underscored Ohio State’s offensive versatility and newfound physicality at the line of scrimmage.
Defensively, the tone was set early by Cody Simon’s thunderous hit on Tennessee’s quarterback, which cracked his helmet and sent a chilling message. Eric described it as the ultimate tone-setter, one that resonated across the field and sidelines. The hosts agreed that this single moment encapsulated the Buckeyes’ defensive mentality: relentless, punishing, and utterly dominant. It wasn’t just about making tackles; it was about imposing their will.
The Buckeyes’ physicality in the cold Columbus weather, combined with a fired-up home crowd, created an intimidating atmosphere. The Ohio State faithful fed off the energy, ensuring no one sat down for the entire game. This was a Buckeye team playing with a chip on its shoulder, demonstrating confidence instilled by Ryan Day and his coaching staff.
Looking ahead, the hosts expressed optimism about the team’s ability to exploit Oregon’s weaknesses in their next matchup. If Ohio State can channel the same intensity and precision they displayed against Tennessee, they’ll be a formidable force in the postseason.
This was more than a victory; it was a declaration. Ohio State isn’t just competing; they’re out to prove they belong among the nation’s elite, and performances like this leave little room for doubt.
