Buckeye Rosters

Recap

Evanston, IL — Miyan Williams rushed for 111 yards and two touchdowns, propelling No. 2 Ohio State to a 21-7 victory over Northwestern on Saturday. The Buckeyes (9-0, 6-0 Big Ten) overcame challenging weather conditions and a determined Wildcats defense to maintain their unbeaten record.

Northwestern (1-8, 1-5) got off to a fast start. Running back Evan Hull capped a nine-play, 80-yard drive with a 16-yard touchdown run, granting the Wildcats a 7-0 lead at 6:45 in the first quarter.

Ohio State responded in the second quarter. Wide receiver Emeka Egbuka executed a 15-yard touchdown run, concluding a six-play, 46-yard drive, and leveling the score at 7-7 with 2:26 remaining in the half.

The Buckeyes seized control in the third quarter. Williams broke free for a 27-yard touchdown run at 8:44, advancing Ohio State to a 14-7 advantage. He further solidified the lead with a 2-yard touchdown plunge in the fourth quarter, finalizing the score at 21-7.

Quarterback C.J. Stroud faced challenges in the passing game due to adverse weather, completing 10 of 26 passes for 76 yards. However, he contributed significantly on the ground, rushing for 79 yards on six carries, including a pivotal 44-yard run in the fourth quarter.

Defensively, Ohio State was anchored by linebacker Tommy Eichenberg, who amassed 13 tackles, including 10 solo efforts. Safety Ronnie Hickman added 10 tackles, six of them solo.

Northwestern’s defense delivered a commendable performance. The linebacker trio of Bryce Gallagher, Xander Mueller, and Greyson Metz were instrumental in both run and pass defenses, notably on critical third and fourth downs. Defensive lineman Adetomiwa Adebawore made a crucial stop on a third-and-one play in the first quarter, halting Williams short of the first down. Defensive back Cameron Mitchell contributed with three pass breakups, limiting Stroud to a career-low passing yardage.

The Wildcats’ offense managed 206 rushing yards, with Hull leading the charge, but struggled to capitalize on opportunities, particularly on fourth-down conversions.

Ohio State’s special teams also played a pivotal role. Punter Jesse Mirco averaged 50.3 yards on seven punts, effectively shifting field position in favor of the Buckeyes.

The Buckeyes will return to Ohio Stadium next Saturday to face Indiana, aiming to extend their perfect season.