Michigan vs Ohio State in Columbus, OH on November 30, 2024 © 2024 Zoey Holmstrom
JT Tuimoloau Gives Positive Update on Ankle Injury Ahead of CFP Championship Game
Ohio State defensive end JT Tuimoloau has provided a welcome update on his ankle injury, revealing that he is healthy and ready to compete in the College Football Playoff (CFP) Championship Game on Monday.
Tuimoloau suffered the injury during the second quarter of the Cotton Bowl, when teammate Eddrick Houston fell on his leg. However, the senior defensive end has made a swift recovery, thanks in part to his faith.
“God healed me. He took care of my ankle,” Tuimoloau said during Ohio State’s College Football Playoff national championship media day. “I’m just blessed to be back here and have another day and another good amount of time with my brothers.”
Tuimoloau’s ankle injury could have been a significant blow to Ohio State’s championship hopes, but the defensive end’s determination and resilience have enabled him to bounce back quickly.
Despite being in pain immediately after the injury, Tuimoloau was adamant that he would not exit the Cotton Bowl. He told Ohio State’s trainers to retighten his shoe, drawing on his experience of playing through injuries in basketball.
“I told one of the trainers, ‘Hey, untie my shoe. Tighten it back up.’ That’s what I did in basketball. I said, ‘I’m good. I’m good to go,'” Tuimoloau recalled.
Tuimoloau’s bravery and perseverance paid off, as he went on to deliver a standout performance in the Cotton Bowl, recording seven tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks.
When asked about his motivation for playing through the injury, Tuimoloau cited the sacrifices made by his family and the support of his teammates.
“I took a look to my left and saw my family there, understanding the sacrifices they made. And then to my right, the boys are battling,” Tuimoloau said. “They would do anything for me, and I would do anything for them. It was quick motivation right there, and I got back in it.”
With Tuimoloau now fully fit and ready to go, Ohio State’s chances of winning the CFP Championship Game have received a significant boost. The Buckeyes will face off against TCU on Monday, with Tuimoloau set to play a key role in their bid for glory.
