Ohio State’s Defense Shines in Cotton Bowl Win
Ohio State’s defense put on an impressive display in their 28-14 win over Texas in the Cotton Bowl. The standout performances of Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau led the charge, with the duo wreaking havoc on the Longhorns’ offense.
Tuimoloau was unstoppable in the first half, racking up seven tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and three pressures. His impressive outing earned him a Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 81.7. Unfortunately, his day was cut short due to an ankle injury.
Sawyer took over in the second half, finishing with three tackles, two pass breakups, and a team-high six pressures. His PFF grade of 89.8 was the highest among the Buckeyes’ defense. The highlight of his game was a crucial strip-sack, scoop-and-score on a fourth-and-goal attempt by Texas, sealing the win for Ohio State.
The rest of the defense also played their part in the win. Defensive tackle Tyleik Williams had a solid game with a PFF grade of 64.7, while linebacker Cody Simon’s 74.5 grade was the highest among the linebackers. Cornerback Jordan Hancock’s 78.5 grade led the secondary.
The Buckeyes’ defense held Texas to just 14 points, with their pass rush and coverage proving too much for the Longhorns to handle. The win was a testament to the team’s defensive prowess and sets them up for success in the College Football Playoff.
Individual Grades:
Defensive End:
Jack Sawyer: 89.8
J.T. Tuimoloau: 81.7
Caden Curry: 59.5
Mitchell Melton: 58.1
Kenyatta Jackson: 41.2
Defensive Tackle:
Eddrick Houston: 72.7
Kayden McDonald: 65.2
Tyleik Williams: 64.7
Hero Kanu: 62.8
Ty Hamilton: 59.4
Linebacker:
Cody Simon: 74.5
Arvell Reese: 68.7
Sonny Styles: 62.7
C.J. Hicks: 60.0
Cornerback:
Jordan Hancock: 78.5
Denzel Burke: 66.1
Jermaine Mathews: 64.9
Lorenzo Styles Jr.: 63.3
Davison Igbinosun: 60.2
Safety:
Caleb Downs: 71.2
Malik Hartford: 60.0
Lathan Ransom: 47.9
