Buckeye Rosters

Recap

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Buckeyes amassed 487 total yards against what was regarded as the Big Ten’s top defense, but it still wasn’t enough as Illinois won the Big Ten opener, 31-20. Ohio State led 17-10 at halftime and 20-17 midway through the third period. After Illinois took the lead late in the third period, it wrapped up the game early in the fourth on a controversial 45-yard blocked field goal return for a touchdown.

Quarterback Greg Frey passed for 244 yards and tailback Raymont Harris rushed for 118, but the Buckeyes had six turnovers. Illini quarterback Jason Verduzco passed for 258 yards and a pair of TDs with split end Shawn Wax making eight receptions for 159 yards.