Buckeye Rosters

Recap

Pasadena, CA — The 2022 Rose Bowl between No. 6 Ohio State and No. 11 Utah was a thrilling, high-scoring contest that saw the Buckeyes complete a dramatic comeback to defeat the Utes 48-45 in Pasadena, California. Ohio State, despite missing several key players due to opt-outs, overcame a 14-point halftime deficit to secure the victory in a game that featured record-breaking performances.

Utah opened the game with a dominant offensive display, quickly establishing control with a 35-21 lead at halftime. The Utes capitalized on Ohio State’s defensive struggles, scoring five touchdowns in the first two quarters. A pivotal moment came when Utah’s Britain Covey returned a kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown, shifting momentum further in Utah’s favor.

Despite the deficit, Ohio State’s offense remained competitive. Quarterback C.J. Stroud connected with wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba for multiple big plays, including a 50-yard touchdown, keeping the Buckeyes within striking distance.

Ohio State took over in the second half, fueled by Stroud and Smith-Njigba’s historic performances. The Buckeyes outscored Utah 27-10 in the final two quarters. Stroud threw a 30-yard touchdown to Smith-Njigba early in the third quarter, cutting the deficit. Utah briefly responded, but Ohio State’s offense continued its relentless attack.

A key turning point came when Utah’s quarterback Cam Rising exited the game due to injury late in the fourth quarter. With backup quarterback Bryson Barnes leading Utah, Ohio State’s defense tightened, allowing the Buckeyes to take control. Kicker Noah Ruggles drilled a game-winning 19-yard field goal with 9 seconds remaining.

Key Player Performances & Records

• Jaxon Smith-Njigba delivered one of the greatest receiving performances in college football history, finishing with:
  • 15 receptions, 347 yards, and 3 touchdowns
  • Broke Ohio State’s single-game receiving yards record
  • Set a new FBS bowl game record for receiving yards
  • Set the Ohio State single-season receiving yards record (1,606 yards)
• C.J. Stroud had a career-best game, throwing for:
  • 573 passing yards and 6 touchdowns
  • The most passing yards in a Rose Bowl game
  • Second-most passing yards in Ohio State history
• Running back TreVeyon Henderson added solid contributions on the ground, rushing for 83 yards on 17 carries.

On the Utah side, Cam Rising threw for 214 yards and 2 touchdowns, while Micah Bernard led Utah’s rushing attack with 3 total touchdowns.

Ohio State’s 48-45 victory was a testament to resilience, offensive firepower, and the historic connection between Stroud and Smith-Njigba. Despite Utah’s strong start and impressive offensive execution, the Buckeyes’ second-half dominance, coupled with key defensive stops, secured the Rose Bowl win. This game will be remembered as one of the greatest offensive showcases in bowl history, particularly for Smith-Njigba’s record-shattering performance.