Buckeye Rosters

Recap

New Orleans, LA — Ohio State delivered an emphatic 49-28 victory over Clemson in the Allstate Sugar Bowl College Football Playoff Semifinal. The Buckeyes were led by quarterback Justin Fields, who turned in a spectacular performance, throwing for 385 yards and six touchdowns despite taking a hard hit early in the game that briefly sidelined him. Fields’ resilience and pinpoint accuracy were complemented by the dominant play of running back Trey Sermon, who rushed for 193 yards and added a receiving touchdown. The receiving corps was spearheaded by Chris Olave, who had six receptions for 132 yards and two touchdowns, and Garrett Wilson, who added key receptions to keep drives alive. Ohio State’s offensive line provided stellar protection, giving Fields the time he needed to carve up Clemson’s defense.

On the defensive side, Ohio State excelled at disrupting Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence, holding him to a “modest” 400 passing yards, most of which came during a desperate comeback attempt. Defensive linemen Haskell Garrett and Tommy Togiai were instrumental in controlling the line of scrimmage, while linebacker Pete Werner and safety Josh Proctor contributed with critical tackles and coverage. The Buckeyes’ defense forced turnovers at key moments, including a pivotal fumble recovery that shifted momentum decisively. Ohio State’s ability to neutralize Clemson’s rushing attack and apply pressure on Lawrence showcased a well-prepared and disciplined defensive strategy, cementing the Buckeyes’ place in the national championship game.