Ohio State’s quest for a national title came to a screeching
halt as Alabama was able to pull away with 28 second-quarter points en route to
a 52-24 win. Overcoming COVID issues
that kept as many as eight players sidelined, not to mention an injury to Trey
Sermon on Ohio State’s first play from scrimmage, proved to be too much to
overcome when they needed to be at full strength to have a chance against
Alabama. Tommy Togiai and Tyreke Smith
sitting out due to positive COVID-19 tests significantly hurt the pass rush
that, at times, struggled in 2020 even when they were at full strength. Alabama quarterback Mac Jones carved up the
secondary all night. Of course, Ohio
State came into the game with the 117th ranked passing defense, so
it was little surprise that Jones threw for 464 yards and Heisman winner
DeVonta Smith had over 200 yards receiving.
The 621 total yards and 33 first downs racked up by the Tide was the
most given up by an Ohio State defense since a 63-14 drubbing by Penn State in
1994, which also happens to be the last time they gave up more points.
Offensively, the Buckeyes suffered without Trey Sermon, but
Fields and Master Teague were able to provide some movement on the ground. The offensive line was opening up some holes
in the first half. Teague found the end
zone twice with his first significant game action since the Michigan State game
and Fields also found some running room, leading the team in rushing with 67
yards. His passing numbers were so-so,
but he did not turn the ball over and made some nice throws to Chris Olave, who
led the team with eight receptions, and a beautiful throw over the middle to
Jeremy Ruckert that set up a touchdown.
But, with the issues on defense, it was apparent from the start the
Buckeyes were going to have to match the Tide score for score and Alabama just
had too much offensive firepower.
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