Ohio State Buckeyes Look to Build Momentum in Big Ten Showdown

Columbus, Ohio — The Ohio State Buckeyes are off to a strong start this season, fueled by the impressive performance of true freshman running back Bo Jackson. With a PFF grade of 91.0, Jackson is currently the highest-rated true freshman running back this season. He is a four-star recruit from Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School in Cleveland, ranked as the 11th best running back in the nation.

Despite not being the top recruit for Ohio State, Jackson has quickly made his mark. After sitting out the season opener against Texas, he debuted against Grambling State, rushing for 108 yards and a touchdown on just nine carries, averaging 12 yards per rush. He had a similar performance against Ohio, once again averaging 12 yards per carry and adding two receptions for 21 yards.

The Buckeyes have been utilizing a three-back system, rotating Jackson with CJ Donaldson and James Peoples. Jackson leads the team in rushing yards with 217 on 18 carries. Donaldson, who has the most carries at 33, has run for 151 yards and two touchdowns, while Peoples has 126 yards on 25 carries but has yet to score this season.

As the Buckeyes prepare for a significant matchup against the Washington Huskies on the road, they focus on integrating their running backs effectively. Coach Ryan Day has emphasized the importance of getting off to a strong start to quiet the crowd, noting that Washington’s home field advantage will be crucial.

Quarterback Julian Sayin will be making his first road start, and while he has impressed with 779 passing yards and eight touchdowns against three interceptions, he will face a loud and hostile environment. Day has indicated the need for the offense to find rhythm early to mitigate home-field pressure.

Washington’s offense has proven formidable, ranking 10th in the nation in yards per game. Running back Jonah Coleman has averaged nearly seven yards per carry with nine touchdowns already. The Buckeyes’ defense, which has restrained opponents to only 16 points in three games this season, will need to contain Coleman and put pressure on sophomore quarterback Demond Williams, who has thrown six touchdowns without an interception.

On the defensive front, Caden Curry has emerged as a key player, already surpassing his previous career highs in tackles and sacks. His consistent performance has garnered praise from Coach Day, who views him as a pivotal component of their defensive strategy moving forward.

As both teams set to clash on Saturday at 3:30 p.m., the implications of this game could set the tone for the remainder of the season, particularly for the Buckeyes as they maintain their undefeated status.