MY THOUGHTS.....Purdue

 

Purdue’s Ross-Ade Stadium has been a “house of horrors” for the Buckeyes, but in 2023, Ohio State turned that narrative around in cruising to a 41-7 victory in a game that was never in doubt.  As opposed to last week, Ohio State got off to a fast start.  Kyle McCord completed 16 of 28 passes for 276 yards with three touchdowns, while Devin Brown rushed for a touchdown during his insertion into the goal-line offense and threw for one late.  Chip Trayanum, unfortunately, was knocked out of the game in the first quarter, but Dallan Hayden turned in an impressive performance, getting 76 yards and a touchdown.  Marvin Harrison Jr. led the way with six catches for 105 yards and a touchdown, while Cade Stover caught four passes for 53 yards and two scores.  Cody Simon had his most productive day in his career, leading the defense with eight tackles, along with Tommy Eichenberg.  Tyleik Williams made life miserable for Purdue’s offense, with two sacks, both on third down forcing Purdue punts.  So did JT Tuimoloa , also with two sacks.  His timely sack on Purdue’s first drive stopped a scoring threat and forced a long field goal attempt that went wide.  Jack Sawyer also netted two sacks, one of which stopped a Purdue scoring threat in the third quarter.

Next week, Ohio State hopes to have TreVeyon Henderson, Miyan Williams and Chip Trayanum back as an undefeated Penn State team rolls into town.  The Buckeyes will need all hands on deck to pass their toughest test yet.