Ohio State’s defense stepped up in a big way against Maryland, earning high marks even while missing key players like Christian Alliegro and Jay Timmons. The secondary, led by breakout star Jaylen McClain and impressive performances from Earl Little and Devin Sanchez, shut down Maryland’s passing attack, while cornerbacks avoided costly penalties and kept receivers in check.
Up front, Kenyatta Jackson, Qua Russaw, and Zion Grady brought consistent pressure, though the defensive line still searches for sacks. Linebackers like TJ Alford and Payton Pierce were steady. Special teams remain a work in progress after a mix of promising moments and frustrating errors, the classic season-long narrative. Can the Buckeyes' stellar secondary lock things down again against Indiana, and will the special teams finally clean things up?