Will Howard helped No. 2 Ohio State rout Northwestern 31-7 at Wrigley Field, showcasing his skills with two touchdown passes. Quinshon Judkins contributed with two 1-yard rushing touchdowns, solidifying the Buckeyes’ dominance in this matchup.
The Buckeyes (9-1, 6-1 Big Ten, No. 2 CFP) overcame a sluggish start to secure their fourth straight victory since their narrow defeat against Oregon on October 12. Their upcoming game against No. 5 Indiana promises to be a significant challenge.
Howard completed 15 of 24 passes for 247 yards, with both touchdowns thrown to Carnell Tate, a Chicago native who caught four passes for 52 yards. This connection added a personal touch to the game, highlighting Tate’s local roots.
Jeremiah Smith, another standout for Ohio State, recorded four receptions for 100 yards, including a crucial 68-yard reception that set up Tate’s 8-yard touchdown early in the second half. Smith nearly made a spectacular one-handed catch in the end zone on the Buckeyes’ opening drive, but the ball slipped from his grasp as he landed.
Northwestern (4-6, 2-5) faced its third loss in four games. Quarterback Jack Lausch threw for 201 yards and added an 8-yard touchdown run but also suffered a fumble during a promising drive, which hampered the Wildcats’ momentum.
Judkins’ first touchdown came after an impressive 85-yard drive, leveling the score at 7 midway through the second quarter. Northwestern’s subsequent series ended in a three-and-out, and a high snap led to a blocked punt, allowing Ohio State to capitalize with Judkins’ second touchdown from the 1-yard line, marking his eighth rushing touchdown of the season.
Before halftime, the Buckeyes extended their lead with Tate’s 25-yard touchdown catch, bringing the score to 21-7 at the break.
The takeaway
Northwestern: The absence of Theran Johnson, one of the team’s key defensive backs, was felt as the Wildcats struggled to contain Ohio State’s talented receiving corps.
Ohio State: Once the Buckeyes found their rhythm in the second quarter, their offense operated smoothly, leaving little room for Northwestern to respond.
Up next
Ohio State: The Buckeyes will host undefeated Indiana next Saturday, a game that will test their championship aspirations.
Northwestern: The Wildcats will travel to Michigan next Saturday, seeking to turn their season around against a formidable opponent.
