Ohio State’s Lorenzo Styles Injured vs. Rutgers, Season Drama Builds

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio State defensive back Lorenzo Styles Jr. left Saturday’s game against Rutgers due to an injury sustained in the second quarter. Styles, who had made 25 tackles this season, was injured while tackling Rutgers tight end Kenny Fletcher.

After the play, Styles remained on the field for a brief period before walking to the medical tent with an apparent upper-body injury. He later returned to the sidelines without his helmet while the Buckeyes’ defense was on the field.

This game was Styles’ seventh start of the season, and he was honored during Senior Day festivities. Earlier this season, he missed games against Illinois and Wisconsin because of injury but was ready for action against the Badgers. Ohio State is poised to face Michigan in their final regular season game on November 29 and seeks a Big Ten Championship appearance on December 6.

In their last matchup, Ohio State dominated UCLA with a 48-10 victory, marking their 14th consecutive win and a milestone 1,000th victory in program history. The Buckeyes’ offense has flourished, with quarterback Julian Sayin maintaining a top completion percentage in the country.

Styles’ absence comes at a critical time as Ohio State focuses on securing a spot in the College Football Playoff. The Buckeyes are managing injuries among other key players, including wide receiver Carnell Tate and running back C.J. Donaldson Jr. Despite these setbacks, the team still boasts one of the best defenses in college football.

Ohio State’s chances against Rutgers are strong, as they remain undefeated in their history against the Scarlet Knights. However, the emotional impact of Senior Day and ongoing injuries adds a layer of uncertainty to the game.

As Ohio State prepares for this significant matchup, the team’s performance could dramatically affect their postseason prospects.