Buckeye Rosters

Recap

Pasadena, CA — In a titanic defensive struggle, the Ohio State defense forced seven fumbles, recovering four of those, and held the Bruins’ offense to 323 total yards, including just 105 yards in the second half. After converting four third-down plays on their first drive, which led to their only touchdown of the day, the Bruins converted just two of 11 the rest of the afternoon.

Linebacker Matt Wilhelm led Ohio State with 10 total tackles, including eight solos and two tackles-for-loss. He also forced a fumble. Strong safety Mike Doss had seven tackles, recovered a fumble and blocked a UCLA punt that Ohio State recovered for a touchdown. Defensive end Tim Cheatwood was credited with five tackles, including a tackle-for-loss, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery. It was a superb defensive effort by the Buckeyes against a veteran and talented offensive team.

UCLA tailback and Heisman Trophy hopeful DeShaun Foster, who had been averaging 149 yards per game, could manage just 66 on 29 carries against the Buckeyes.

Punter Andy Groom had his best day as a Buckeye, averaging 46.8 yards per punt on six kicks. Offensively, the Buckeyes managed just 166 yards against a solid UCLA defense. In spite of a missed PAT and two missed field goals. Ohio State was a touchdown away from winning the game. Jonathan Wells led the Buckeyes in rushing with 47 yards.