CHICAGO — In a commanding performance on Saturday at Wrigley Field, Will Howard threw two touchdown passes, and Quinshon Judkins contributed with two short rushing touchdowns, as No. 2 Ohio State decisively defeated Northwestern with a score of 31-7.
The Buckeyes, now boasting a record of 9-1 and 6-1 in the Big Ten Conference, bounced back after a slow start. This victory marked their fourth consecutive triumph since suffering a narrow 32-31 defeat to Oregon on October 12. Ohio State’s next challenge awaits next weekend, where they are set to face off against No. 5 Indiana in a crucial matchup.
Howard demonstrated his efficiency as he completed 15 of 24 passes for a total of 247 yards. His two touchdown throws were directed to Carnell Tate, a native of Chicago, who ended the day with four receptions for 52 yards. Jeremiah Smith, another standout player for Ohio State, had an impressive performance with four catches for 100 yards, including a notable 68-yard reception that helped set up Tate’s 8-yard touchdown early in the third quarter. Smith nearly made a spectacular one-handed catch in the end zone during Ohio State’s opening drive, but the ball hit the ground as he attempted to secure it.
On the other hand, Northwestern, now 4-6 and 2-5 in conference play, faced their third loss in four games. Quarterback Jack Lausch threw for 201 yards and also managed to score an 8-yard touchdown run. However, his efforts were marred by a fumble during a scramble that ended a promising drive for the Wildcats. Judkins’ first touchdown came after an 85-yard drive, leveling the score at 7 midway through the second quarter.
Following Northwestern’s series of three consecutive plays without a first down, a high snap led to a blocked punt, which set Ohio State up close to the end zone. This allowed Judkins to score again, marking his eighth rushing touchdown of the season. The Buckeyes capped the first half with another touchdown from Tate, who made a 25-yard reception with just 47 seconds remaining, extending the lead to 21-7 by halftime.
In assessing the performance, Northwestern notably played without Theran Johnson, one of their essential defensive backs listed as unavailable before the game. His absence was certainly felt as the Wildcats struggled to contend with Ohio State’s talented roster of receivers. For Ohio State, once the offense picked up momentum in the second quarter, the game appeared to flow smoothly in their favor.
Looking ahead, Ohio State will host undefeated Indiana next Saturday, while Northwestern will travel to take on Michigan on the same day.