Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer Shines in Rose Bowl, Eyes NFL Draft

Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer delivered a dominant performance in the Rose Bowl, solidifying his status as a top NFL Draft prospect. The No. 8 seed Buckeyes defeated the Oregon Ducks 41-21, with Sawyer leading the charge on defense. The junior EDGE recorded two tackles for loss and two sacks, disrupting Oregon’s high-powered offense and helping Ohio State build a commanding 34-0 lead.

Sawyer, often compared to NFL legend J.J. Watt, has been a cornerstone of Ohio State’s defense this season. His performance against Oregon showcased his ability to pressure the quarterback and anchor the defensive line. “I can’t say enough about Jack as a leader, as a person,” Ohio State coach Ryan Day said after the game. “He really stands for what it means to be a Buckeye, and to see him playing at a high level, he’s the heart and soul of the front.”

Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel, a Heisman Trophy finalist, struggled under Sawyer’s relentless pressure, being sacked eight times. Despite passing for 299 yards and two touchdowns, Gabriel couldn’t overcome Ohio State’s defensive onslaught. The Ducks’ national championship hopes ended as their 13-1 season came to a close.

In a recent NFL Mock Draft by Pro Football Focus, Sawyer is projected to be selected by the Los Angeles Chargers with the No. 25 overall pick. If drafted by the Chargers, Sawyer would join former Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert, creating an intriguing connection between the two programs.

Ohio State’s victory sets up a College Football Playoff Semifinal matchup against the Texas Longhorns in the Cotton Bowl. Sawyer’s performance will be critical as he faces Texas right tackle Cameron Williams, who is expected to return from a knee injury. Williams missed the Longhorns’ Peach Bowl victory but is anticipated to play against Ohio State.

Oregon coach Dan Lanning acknowledged Ohio State’s resurgence after their loss to Michigan earlier in the season. “Sometimes it’s not your day. I think that was us today,” Lanning said. “It wasn’t our day today. It wasn’t their day against Michigan. But what’s unique about college football right now in this dynamic is that you’ve got to be playing your best ball at the end. I think anybody watching Ohio State recognizes they’re playing really good football.”

Ohio State safety Caleb Downs also stood out in the Rose Bowl, earning a team-high 81.4 tackling grade from PFF and breaking up three passes. The sophomore transfer from Alabama has been a key contributor for the Buckeyes this season, further boosting his NFL Draft stock.

As Ohio State prepares for the Cotton Bowl, Sawyer’s leadership and playmaking ability will be pivotal in their quest for a national championship. His performance against Oregon has already cemented his legacy as one of the most impactful players in Ohio State history.