The Buckeyes end Huskies’ 22-game home win streak in physical battle at Husky Stadium.
The top-ranked Buckeyes walked into Seattle facing a team hungry to make a statement. Washington threw everything at Ohio State, trick plays, defensive adjustments, and early pressure, but the Buckeyes’ composure and star power proved too much. A sun-soaked Husky Stadium crowd of 72,485 witnessed the end of UW’s 22-game home winning streak as Ohio State pulled away for a 24-6 win.
Washington’s defense set the tone early. Linebacker Jacob Manu returned from injury and delivered an immediate spark, while Xe’ree Alexander stuffed a fourth-and-1 inside the red zone. Even a fake field goal attempt showed how aggressive the Huskies were willing to be. Their effort gave them a brief 3-0 lead, the first deficit Ohio State faced all season.
But when it mattered most, the Buckeyes leaned on their biggest weapon. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith hauled in eight catches for 81 yards, including a 29-yard touchdown just before halftime that flipped momentum for good. After the break, Smith’s presence stretched the field and opened lanes for running back C.J. Donaldson, who punched in a short touchdown run to extend the lead.
Quarterback Julian Sayin kept the Buckeyes steady, completing 22 of 28 passes for 208 yards and two scores. Washington quarterback Demond Williams showed flashes, completing 18 of 21 passes, but constant pressure left him with five sacks and negative rushing yards.
The Huskies had their moments, but Ohio State showed why it’s No. 1. Championship teams win even when pushed, and the Buckeyes proved that again.
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