Ohio State sputtered in the first half before decisively defeating Iowa 35-7 on Saturday, showcasing a powerful second-half performance. Emeka Egbuka was a standout, catching three touchdown passes, while Jeremiah Smith made an impressive one-handed touchdown grab that highlighted the Buckeyes’ offensive prowess.
Quarterback Will Howard demonstrated accuracy and agility, completing 21 of 25 passes for 209 yards and four touchdowns, in addition to rushing for 28 yards and another score. Ohio State (5-0, 2-0 Big Ten) overcame early mistakes to dominate the second half, scoring 21 unanswered points in a display of resilience.
Holding onto a narrow 7-0 halftime lead, the Buckeyes seized control after the break, turning the game around with a series of explosive plays.
On a crucial third-and-6 play from their own 43-yard line, Howard launched a deep pass to Smith, who skillfully outpaced two defenders. Though Smith was brought down at the Iowa 3-yard line, it set the stage for an impressive touchdown. On the very next play, he soared into the end zone, catching Howard’s high pass with one hand while fending off defensive back Deshaun Lee.
Iowa’s next possession ended abruptly when quarterback Cade McNamara fumbled, allowing linebacker Cody Simon to recover the ball at the Iowa 19-yard line. Just three plays later, Howard dashed around the left end for a touchdown, extending Ohio State’s lead to 21-0.
Capitalizing on a McNamara interception, Ohio State scored again, with Egbuka catching a 15-yard touchdown pass. McNamara’s struggles continued as he fumbled again deep in Iowa territory, leading to Egbuka’s third touchdown catch of the day.
The takeaway
For Iowa, running back Kaleb Johnson, who had been a reliable offensive force with over 100 yards in each of the first four games, struggled against the Buckeyes. He managed only 19 yards on eight carries in the first half, finishing with 86 yards on 15 carries.
Ohio State’s defense delivered its best performance of the season, limiting Iowa to just 226 total yards. The unit sacked McNamara three times, forcing him into two fumbles and one interception.
Poll implications
Following this commanding victory over a Big Ten rival, the Buckeyes are likely to maintain their position at No. 3 in the national polls.
Up next
Iowa will host Washington next Saturday, seeking to bounce back from this defeat.
Meanwhile, Ohio State will face No. 6 Oregon next Saturday night, looking to continue their winning streak.
