Ohio State Shuts Down Texas On Corso's Farewell Sendoff

In an electrifying clash of college football tradition, the Ohio State Buckeyes defended their national title against the highly ranked Texas Longhorns on a Saturday in a game that will not soon be forgotten. With 107,000 fans filling the iconic Ohio Stadium, enhanced by the continual presence of celebrities and the pre-game celebration of the 2024 championship banner reveal, this matchup was one people had been waiting for since January.

The Longhorns entered the contest seething from last year’s playoff ousting at the hands of the Buckeyes, thirsting to reclaim their honor. Both teams faced a significant reality as they stepped onto the field: a mass reshuffling of their offensive lines had left them vulnerable. Ohio State returned only two starters while Texas revamped its entire five-man front, laying the groundwork for what many expected to be a defensive showdown.

As anticipated, the game began with relentless defensive pressure. Texas quarterback Arch Manning, touted as a future star, found himself in an inescapable vice, hampered by an Ohio State defense designed by first-year coordinator Matt Patrica. Manning's performance—17 completions on 30 attempts for 170 yards—reflects his struggles under duress, compounded by a crucial interception thrown to first-year starter Jermaine Mathews Jr. The narrative surrounding the young quarterbacks—from Manning’s significant pedigree to Ohio State’s Julian Sayin stepping into the spotlight—was overshadowed by the defensive resilience of the Buckeyes. Neither quarterback found a rhythm.

Similarly, on the ground, however the Buckeyes faced challenges of their own. Despite their defensive prowess against the pass, they allowed Texas to chip away with 166 rushing yards. Conversely, Ohio State's own ground game was held to a mere 77 yards by the Longhorn defense, necessitating a more aerial approach. Sayin’s stats—126 yards and a touchdown—might not have dazzled on paper, but he displayed a knack for smart decision-making, notably connecting with Carnell Tate for a pivotal 40-yard touchdown. His poise under pressure ultimately aided in securing a 14-0 lead, a buffer that became essential as the game progressed.

The Buckeyes remained steadfast, their defense consistently forcing Texas into difficult positions. Key moments throughout the game showcased Ohio State's defensive versatility; the unyielding pressure culminated in a nerve-wracking fourth down where CJ Hicks's edge blitz disrupted Manning's throw and sealed the victory for Ohio State. This level of defensive execution highlighted why the Buckeyes, despite preseason skepticism from national media, have embraced an underdog mentality and reaffirmed their status as reigning champions.

Post-game, Head Coach Ryan Day struck a note of optimism, expressing that the performance was a solid foundation but noting, “There’s a lot we can build on here, a lot we have to improve on.”

His remarks indicate a growth trajectory as the season progresses, heightening expectations among Buckeye fans eager to witness a refined iteration of the team as they journey through the season. Home-field advantage certainly played a significant role in Ohio State's triumph. The stadium's atmosphere, lively and unrelenting, resonated profoundly with the players. The intensity reached a crescendo after significant plays, causing the press box itself to vibrate. Ohio Stadium, often heralded for its electric atmosphere, proved once again to be one of college football’s premier venues, creating an unforgettable experience for players and fans alike.

The day was further marked by the poignant farewell of Lee Corso during his final appearance on College GameDay—an event stirring not just nostalgia but a sense of legacy as he donned Brutus the Buckeye’s headgear for his iconic pick. The outpouring of admiration from thousands of fans honored his extensive contributions to college football media, encapsulating the heart of the sport.

As the Buckeyes turn their gaze toward their next opponent, Grambling State, fans are left eagerly anticipating what lies ahead. Their upcoming game, set to air on the Big Ten Network, presents an opportunity to further hone the team’s skills and chemistry. If Saturday's performance is anything to judge by, the potential for greatness rests heavily on Ohio State as they strive to cement their legacy in the annals of college football history.